Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley celebrates with the graduates, rejoicing in their achievement as a fellow grad and commencement speaker. Nearly two decades after starting his undergraduate studies, Crowley returned to 51ΑΤΖζ to complete his degree. (51ΑΤΖζ Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Denis Kitchen, a 51ΑΤΖζ journalism graduate in 1968 and one of the original βundergroundβ cartoonists in the late 1960s, accepts an honorary degree at the ceremony. (51ΑΤΖζ Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Maranda Brown beams toward family and friends while displaying her diploma. Brown earned an MBA. (51ΑΤΖζ Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Education graduates Jennifer Garcia (center) and Hope Stadel when their school is called up to stage. 51ΑΤΖζ Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Chancellor Mark Mone and County Executive David Crowley exchange smiles after Crowley officially received his diploma. (51ΑΤΖζ photo/Elora Hennessey)
Engineering undergraduates stand and cheer when called on by Dean Brett Peters. (51ΑΤΖζ Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Kaye Van Susteren-Wedesky show off her diploma after receiving a bachelor's in communication. Susteren-Wedesky has been quite involved during her time at 51ΑΤΖζ, as a campus ambassador and as an intern in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. (51ΑΤΖζ Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Kristian Zenz shows off his graduation cap featuring a crocheted rendition of 51ΑΤΖζβs mascot, Pounce Panther, made by friend and 51ΑΤΖζ film student Melissa Hernandez. (51ΑΤΖζ Photo/Elora Hennessey)
After receiving their degrees, undergraduates move their tassels from the right side to the left. (51ΑΤΖζ Photo/Elora Hennessey)
More than 1,700 students graduated from 51ΑΤΖζ this fall, with many walking across the stage at the 51ΑΤΖζ Panther Arena on Sunday to the cheers of family, friends, faculty and fellow graduates.
Graduation day is always a momentous occasion, but for the Class of 2024, it held even more significance. Having navigated the challenges of a global pandemic alongside the typical hurdles of college life, these graduates came together to celebrate their resilience and accomplishments. Surrounded by loved ones, they reflected on their journey and looked forward to the bright futures that lie ahead.
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley delivered the commencement address, sharing his personal journey as a graduate himself on this day. Inspired by his family, Crowley returned to college to complete his long-delayed degree, balancing classes at 51ΑΤΖζ with his family responsibilities and county duties. On Sunday, he proudly received his bachelorβs degree in Community Engagement and Education, just after delivering his speech.
During the ceremony, Denis Kitchen, a 51ΑΤΖζ journalism graduate from the Class of 1968 and one of the original ‘underground’ cartoonists of the late 1960s, was awarded an honorary degree in recognition of his contributions.
