Joyce McSherry, of Belpre, displays the message on her cap during Saturday’s Marietta College commencement as fellow student Sierra Sinclair of Little Hocking looks on. (Photo provided)

Born in Virginia, Terry Gasper was raised in the west African country of Ghana. His path to graduation with a sports management degree and minor in economics at Marietta College’s 187th commencement on Saturday wasn’t the typical collegiate experience.

“There were many times I wanted to give up, to be honest,” he said in a release from the college. “But the Business & Economics Department faculty were there for me every step of the way, providing real-world insights and believing in my potential even when I doubted myself.”

Gasper also described Tony Mayle, director of diversity and inclusion and associate dean of students, as “like a father figure who helped me through incredibly tough personal transitions. I’ve always been dedicated to any challenge I take on, and Tony showed me how to view setbacks as opportunities for growth.”

Mayle said he may have mentored Gasper but Gasper did the same for him.

“He is an inspiring young man with a passion for helping others and standing up for social justice,” Mayle said. “His pride for his culture encourages so many others to learn and embrace their own cultures. He has made a tremendous mark at Marietta College, and I am confident wherever his journey takes him, he will continue to do the same.”

Helena Immel, right, hugs her nana Susie Immel after Marietta College's 187th commencement ceremony on Saturday. Immel earned a bachelor of arts degree in marketing. (Photo provided)

Gasper was one of 216 Marietta College students who received their diplomas from President Margaret Drugovich and Provost Kathleen Poorman Dougherty as approximately 1,500 family and friends celebrated the accomplishment Saturday at the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center.

Gasper also delivered the second-place Jewett Oration, “Adversity is an Untapped Strength,” during the ceremony.

“Marietta College has been my biggest test, yet my greatest joy,” he said. “I hope everyone experiences what I have experienced and even more.”

Michaela Donnelly of Philadelphia earned a bachelor of arts in global leadership and political science and had the top Jewett Oration, “Anyone Can Graduate.”

“My time at Marietta has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Donnelly, a four-year rower for the Pioneers. “I have met the people I hope to surround myself with for the rest of my life. These people – my professors, coaches and friends – have inspired me to become the person I am today. My Marietta College experience would have been completely different if I had not met these amazing individuals.”

Marietta College President Margaret Drugovich, left, poses with Auva Zandi of Dublin during Saturday's 187th commencement ceremony at the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center. Zandi earned a bachelor of science degree in health science. (Photo provided)

She is returning to Philadelphia to work as a head lifeguard in the summer.

“After the season concludes I hope to find a job with the Philadelphia city government or the Pennsylvania state government as a political aid,” she said.

“My ultimate occupational goal is to work for the State Department as a foreign service officer or U.S. diplomat.”

Claire Rocco of Cambridge was the class valedictorian and earned a bachelor of science degree in health science.

She will matriculate into the Marietta Physician Assistant Studies Graduate Program in June.

“When I first visited the campus, it reminded me a lot (of) home. I felt very comfortable here,” Rocco said.

“It’s now my second home.

The education was challenging but one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

I’ve learned so much and grown so much.”

The College’s Student Government Association (SGA) recognized Gabby Turner of Beavercreek with the William Bay Irvine Medal, awarded annually to the outstanding student of the senior class.

The recipient is selected on the basis of the degree and extent of involvement in student activities, loyalty and service to Marietta College and scholarship.

The college also recognized Susan MacKenty Brady, from the class of ’94, who received the Marietta College honorary degree doctor of laws. Brady is the Deloitte Ellen Gabriel chair for women and leadership at Simmons University and the first chief executive officer of The Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership.

She is widely recognized for her prolific work focused on strategies for women’s leadership development and self-empowerment.

“We are grateful for all you have done, for our community and for women who aspire to lead,” said Drugovich during the ceremony.

“Marietta College is proud to count you among our most distinguished graduates.

You are an example to all who are gathered here today.”

Dougherty and Board Chairwoman Mary Studders Korn surprised Drugovich by presenting her with an honorary degree doctor of humane letters.

“Margaret Drugovich displayed a trailblazing vision, and made outstanding contributions to higher education, while also providing unwavering mentorship of Marietta’s leadership team,” Korn said as she read the citation.

“(She) has displayed a focus on a brighter future and providing stability to help in the transition to Marietta’s 21st president.”

Brendan Adkinson, from the class of 2016, delivered the commencement address, focusing on – “our response to failure. Our desire for success. And how we listen to our hearts.”

“When you encounter failure, persist.

Don’t just aim to succeed.

Aim to serve.

And instead of following your heart and its feelings, let your convictions be your compass,” Adkinson said.

The Class of 2024 honored Assistant Professor of Biology Lynn Bostrom with the Outstanding Faculty Award.