ECU celebrates fall commencement for more than 1,800 Pirates
In a pair of ceremonies Friday, more than 1,800 East Carolina University students became alumni, celebrating commencement with an auditorium full of supporters including family, friends and faculty.
Chancellor Philip Rogers encouraged ECU’s newest graduates to remember the contributions of those supporters and to pass on that support throughout their careers and in their daily lives.
“On an occasion like this one, it’s important to remember you each took many paths to an ECU degree — the path to opportunity,” Rogers said. “You all arrived here from different places and with different backgrounds and ambitions, but you all leave this place as Pirates, as one ECU family, and I’m proud that you chose this university to be part of your life’s journey.”
Matt Slate ’96, managing director of Bank of America Securities and chairperson of the ECU Foundation Board, delivered the keynote address, telling the graduates that each career, including his own, is unique, and to rely on all of the skills and lessons they’ve learned at ECU, both inside and outside the classroom.
“I know each of you is a better problem solver, relationship builder, independent thinker and worker than when you arrived at ECU,” he said. “I know many of you have had to hold down a job while you have attended college. I have had a job since I was 16 years old. That is the grit and tenacity of a Pirate. Don’t be afraid to outwork the rest of the room — that’s our Pirate chip. Be proud and embrace it.”
Chandler Ward, president of the Student Government Association, greeted the graduates on behalf of the SGA and expressed his pride in the Class of 2021.
“Implore your ability to adapt and don’t get scared to let this world knock you down. Learn from it,” he said.
By persevering and making it to commencement day, Ward said, the graduates showcased a trait that will serve them well — adaptability.
Slate, who earned his undergraduate degree in biology, credited his experiences at ECU and his Pirate connections for fostering his career opportunities, and he encouraged Friday’s graduates to pay it forward and strive to make a positive difference in others’ lives.
“You can achieve whatever you aspire to do from today forward because your foundation includes ECU,” he said. “Will you have to work hard? Absolutely. But today marks the start of building your next chapter.”
Also providing remarks to graduates were Dr. Purificación Martínez, chair of the faculty, and Scott Shook, chair of the ECU Board of Trustees.
Photos
East Carolina University celebrated fall commencement with two ceremonies Friday in Minges Coliseum.
Graduates turn their tassels at the conclusion of the commencement ceremony.
Chancellor Philip Rogers dons his regalia before commencement.
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