Diploma Ceremony Highlights

The Law School Diploma Ceremony was held at 2:30 p.m. in the Smith Center following the Commencement Ceremony. As thousands of family members, friends, and Law School and University community members looked on, the graduates were led into the ceremony by

Faculty Marshals Scott Pagel, Alfreda Robinson, J.D. '78, and Joan Schaffner. Senior Associate Dean Gregory Maggs, Marshal of the Law School, announced the Commencement.

Millicent Scarlett sang the National Anthem. Elizabeth Fahrlander, Jeremy Glen, Paul Kerlin, Erika Kottenmeier, Sean O'Brien, Evann O'Donnell, Erica Oleszczuk, Danielle Rosché, and Luke Wilson, all class of 2009 graduates, sang the Alma Mater.

Reverend Sandra DePriest, Church of the Good Shepherd, delivered the Invocation.

Following his welcome address, Dean Frederick M. Lawrence acknowledged the Stockton Guard, graduates of 1969 and earlier. Richard J. Knop, J.D. ’69, served as Grand Marshal of the Stockton Guard.

Gregory G. Garre, J.D.'91, the 44th solicitor general of the United States, delivered the address. He shared his own law school graduation experience from 18 years ago, highlighting feelings of happiness and uncertainty. Garre advised graduates to take time to acknowledge their remarkable achievements, even as they prepare to work very hard during difficult times. He commended graduates on their decision to pursue a career in law saying, “Our country was founded on the rule of law. And in so many ways, the law shapes our society, guides the decisions that our government makes, and strengthens our nation. As any government lawyer is inevitably reminded, in our system a single individual can take on the most powerful nation in the world in court and, if he or she prevails, cause the government to conform its actions to a judicial decision saying what the law is… whatever role you choose to play in this system, when the day’s work is done, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you have not just done your job, but – at least in some small way – helped to foster the rule of law and fortify our national fabric.” Garre also emphasized the importance of pursuing one's interests and living a well-rounded life.

To read a copy of Garre’s speech, please click here. Following the address, each graduate approached the stage to receive her or his diploma from Dean Lawrence.