Wenzhou-Kean University Celebrates Class of 2023 Commencement

The class of 2023 celebrated commencement at Wenzhou-Kean University on June 2. This time, over 650 graduates attended the ceremony in WKU’s Stadium in great company with their families and friends. WKU and Kean University leadership, faculty, staff and alumni also participated onsite and virtually to witness the momentous occasion.

Chairman of Board of Directors of WKU, Mr. Wang Beijiao presided over the event.

Mr. Alexander Mirabella, Member of Wenzhou-Kean University’s Board of Directors, delivered an inspirational commencement speech to the graduates. “You’ve proven that innovation has no boundaries. Every step that brings you closer to where you want to be is worth making. Remember, your potential is endless.” Mr. Mirabella praised graduates and encouraged them to have adventurous and determined spirits which will pave the way to their own personal and professional greatness.

Dr. Wang Li, Chancellor of WKU and Foreign Member of the Russian Academy of Engineering addressed the Class of 2023. He congratulated graduates for living up to the expectations he had for them in 2019 when they joined WKU. These past four years have been marked by progress and growth across the university and the country and he reiterated his hope that WKU graduates could shoulder the responsibility of youth and ignite the sparks of dream with ardent love.

President of Kean University Dr. Lamont O. Repollet, extended his warm greetings and best wishes via video on behalf of Kean USA. He noted that WKU’s 8th graduating class has received a world-class education and developed a strong sense of cultural inclusivity, which is needed more than ever as global citizens. Dr. Repollet challenged graduates and said, “Be fearlessly authentic! Think about what you want your impact on the world to be then apply what you’ve learned at WKU to make that vision a reality. Lead with humanity and be kind to yourself and others, make sure you leave every place you go better than it was before you arrived.”

Today’s success would not have been possible without the support from Kean University, and the governmental support at all levels. Mr. Liu Xiaotao, Member of the Standing Committee of Zhejiang Provincial Party Committee and Secretary of Wenzhou Municipal Party Committee, was in attendance and shared the pride and joy of the graduates. He acknowledged the accomplishments of WKU and Wenzhou in the past few years and further reminded the graduates to impress the experiences in Wenzhou on their memory, create their future and build their careers in Wenzhou, and remember that Wenzhou will always be their warm harbor.

Specially invited guest and keynote speaker Dr. Dawood Farahi, President Emeritus of Kean University, was in attendance. It was under Dr. Farahi’s presidency, that the joint partnership which formed WKU was established and which today drives WKU to become “something majestic” providing world-class education.

In a packed stadium, Dr. Farahi motivated graduates to stay focused, face challenges, and carve a path for themselves. “Don’t wait for the future to dawn on you, create your own. Don’t live somebody else’s plan for your life, make your own plan.” He further urged graduates to use the knowledge that they have gained at WKU to work for peace which will bring prosperity.

Valedictorian Ms. Liu Xiangyi, once an introverted student, expressed her gratitude to WKU’s American-style education, influence of research and for allowing her the flexibility to transfer between majors. These have enabled her to realize her dreams and she advised graduates to conquer their fears while pursuing their dreams, “Don’t be afraid to strive for them. As long as we are brave to step forward, we will be closer to our excellence.”

Ms. Ding Jingjing from the MA TESOL program, representing graduate students, extended her external gratefulness for the opportunities provided by WKU. These have shaped graduate students into unique seeds with all the possibility and potential to be whatever they want. With all the nurturing and love they received at WKU, she believed that WKUers are meant to grow with their alma mater and make a difference in this world.

A highlight of every commencement ceremony is the performance of students and this year, they did not disappoint with their energetic choreographed dance to song including the WKU anthem.

As the Commencement drew to a successful conclusion, Chairman Mr. Wang Beijiao waved goodbye to the Class of 2023 and reminded them, “With all the warm wishes and sincere expectations, you forge ahead and conquer! We wish you great success and beautiful reunions! WKU will always be here waiting for you! Remember to come back sometime!”

Congratulations, Class of 2023! Go forth and do great things!

Writer: Wenwei XIANG (Evelyn)

Proofreader: Abbigail Ajim