Alumni Album
Moraine Park Class of 2009 heads out
More than 300 participate in May 16 commencement
More than 300 members of the Moraine Park Technical College Class of 2009 left the Fond du Lac High School Field House on May 16 wearing the caps and gowns that symbolize the successful completion of a well-earned education.
“Destiny is not a matter of chance, it's a matter of choice; it's not a thing to be waited for, it's a thing to be achieved” was the class motto adopted by the 988 graduate candidates from the Beaver Dam, Fond du Lac and West Bend campuses. The candidates pursued 457 associate of applied science degrees, 457 technical diplomas and 74 program certificates.
Upon being laid off from his former job, Dunday had the opportunity to return to college, choosing Moraine Park for his education and accounting for his new career. “The most positive gain is the knowledge I have acquired which has opened many more choices in my future,” he told those assembled. “I have enjoyed my time here at Moraine Park and look forward to what the future holds.”
Reflecting on the class motto about destiny, O’Brien remarked, “Around here, you decide who and what you want to be and you begin down the path to your destiny, and maybe like me you change your mind at least once, but all along the way you are being guided and encouraged and enlightened by the wonderful staff and teachers who are here to help you achieve your goal, your dream, your destiny.”
The final student speaker, Ninmann expressed her gratitude to her fellow students and her instructors. “Every person I worked with – be it in Student Senate, District Student Government and in my classes – touched my heart and helped me become who I am today. Attending Moraine Park has taught me how to be professional because the instructors not only teach from the book but also from their own life experiences in their field. … Graduating from Moraine Park is a feeling of tremendous accomplishment for me, and I know that all of you are feeling the same way.”
Shelli Dekker, Moraine Park Class of 1995, was presented with the College’s 2009 Distinguished Alumnus Award by Dan Ensalaco, vice president of academics and economic development. A graduate of Moraine Park’s Early Childhood Education program, Dekker is the director of the Child Care Center at the Fond du Lac Family YMCA.
“Shelli is an example of how a technical college education serves as a solid foundation for a successful career and instills in an individual the commitment to use your talents to improve the community through service,” said Ensalaco as he introduced Dekker. At the podium, Dekker told the new graduates, “Moraine Park has given you the tools you need; now it is up to you. … Now you will be making choices that will shape the rest of your life. Think carefully and choose wisely”. She also asked that they try to serve others in need. “Take the time to listen to a friend, tutor a child, volunteer and get involved in your community. This can bring you more joy and satisfaction than you can imagine. In order for you to give to others, you need to make sure to take care of yourself, so you can have more to give.”
The graduation processional was led by bagpiper Gina Crossley, with the ceremonial music performed by Brassination, a brass quintet from the Fond du Lac area. Shady Grove, also from the Fond du Lac area, provided the pre-ceremonial music. A reception was held at the high school.
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