2024 Commencement Recap
Say Hello to the Class of 2024!
After a rainy week, a chilly yet beautiful commencement arrived on May 10. As the bell tolled 10, the sun broke through the clouds, and graduating Bearcats marched through the Centennial Gate to receive their diplomas as the promise of summer hung gently on the horizon. Smiles abounded, families hugged and cried, and cheers and whistles – and even an airhorn and cowbell – echoed throughout the front lawn.
During the graduate ceremony, graduates celebrated in tandem with colorful confetti poppers, and guest singer and Grammy Award-winning alumna Christine Brewer ’76 made a surprise appearance, singing “Mira” from Carnival.
“Today, I am struck by a memory of what didn’t happen four years ago and the increased import on today’s ceremony for many of you. I remember August four years ago, meeting some of you for the first time and how you rejoiced at the opportunity to be here and start your journey at McKendree and to be able to interact face to face,” said President
Daniel C. Dobbins ’81. “For 196 years, this institution has provided learning opportunities for students who have gone on to help shape the world we live in. The Class of 2024 will no doubt do the same.”
Dr. Brian Frederking ’90 Honored
with Grandy Award
Dr. Brian Frederking ’90, professor of political science, received McKendree University’s 2024 William Norman Grandy Faculty Award, given by the Alumni Association. Brian accepted the surprise honor at the morning undergraduate commencement ceremony held on May 10.
Brian earned his undergraduate degree from McKendree in 1990 and has been teaching at his alma mater since 1998. In addition to serving as a professor of political science, he is known for his commitment to teaching and his service and leadership on various committees, including the faculty senate. He frequently presents at McKendree’s Brown Bag events and has also been the leader of Model UN activities on campus for more than 20 years.
Brian teaches a variety of government and political science issues at McKendree. He is often very excited to teach his course material, with several of his students noting that, while they may not enjoy politics, Brian makes the topics interesting and easy to learn. The Okawville, Ill., native is also the past recipient of the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award and the United Methodist Exemplary Teacher of the Year Award.
Maria Vitoria Salomao Wins Prestigious
Technos International Prize
It was a perfect way to wrap up Maria Vitoria Salomao’s time as an undergraduate Bearcat. Not only did the international major’s family fly in from her home in Lagoa Santa, Brazil to see her graduate, but she was also surprised with the 2024 Technos International Prize during commencement. As she took to the stage to receive this last honor, her peers and professors cheered wildly.
At McKendree, Maria was the president of the Student Government Association. She was also the captain of the women’s tennis team, a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, the president of the International Student Organization, a New Student Orientation leader, an office assistant for the Office of Development, Alumni and Parent Relations, and a resident assistant.
One of her professors, Dr. Jean Sampson ’83, professor of business, not only described her as kind, intelligent and caring, but she also took her to an entrepreneurship competition at Washington University last spring and noted that, within a span of a few hours, Maria established relationships with people from multiple universities and countries. Following graduation, Maria plans on interning at Global Merges and Acquisitions at BUNZL until August, at which point she will be working toward her master’s degree and playing tennis for her fifth year.
