Dean College held its 146^th Commencement exercises on Saturday May 12, 2012 at the Dean College campus in Downtown Franklin. A total of 304 individuals received their degrees, with a large number of family and friends in attendance.

“I have worked very hard and I am thrilled to be able to complete my degree and use it as a springboard to my future endeavors,” stated Rosanne Arena, a graduate from Dean’s School of Professional and Continuing Studies, earning her degree in early childhood education. 

The keynote address was provided by Dean College President, Dr. Paula M. Rooney, who provided a poignant speech encouraging students to celebrate and honor their current achievements, while looking ahead to choosing their next goals.  “Your goals are whatever you want them to be.  Choose wisely and whatever you choose - Find your own path and leave your mark on this world, “said Rooney.

Additional speeches were provided by Mark D. Boyce, President and CEO, Scribe Healthcare Technologies, Inc. and Chairman of the Dean College Board of Trustees, along with two graduating students, Chris O’Reilly a theatre major and Student Government President from Hopkinton, MA and Elizabeth McGovern, an early childhood education major from Huntington, NY. 

“My family comes from Ireland so I am the first person in my family to be born in America and the first to graduate College,” says O’Reilly.  “My whole Dean experience has been amazing.”

“I plan on continuing my education in the field of communications,” says McGovern.  “I really enjoyed my time here and I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds.”