
The University of New England awarded over 1,500 baccalaureate, graduate, and professional degrees during its 188th Commencement on Saturday, May 20, representing the fields of osteopathic medicine, dental medicine, pharmacy, health sciences, the humanities, human services, business, education, and the natural and social sciences.
The University welcomed Ronald A. Crutcher, D.M.A., a national leader in higher education and a distinguished classical musician, who delivered the Commencement address and who also received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from UNE. Elizabeth A. McLellan, M.S.N., M.P.H., DMS ’19, president of Portland-based partners for World Health, also received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters during the ceremony.
Speaking to the crowd at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland, Crutcher addressed the many challenges facing the world today, including the deadliest pandemic in a century, the greatest racial reckoning seen in over 50 years, and increased economic disruption and political polarization. In combatting these pervasive issues, he said, people with differing viewpoints must work together to effect positive change.