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Marketing and University Communication UW-Green Bay, CL 815 2420 Nicolet Drive Green Bay, WI 54311-7001 (920) 465-2626 E-mail: hildebrs@uwgb.edu Last update: 10/2/07 |
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In
the News Archive - Year:
May 26, 2002 Saturday commencement is two graduates' Pair among 650 new UWGB alumni By Kelley Bruss
Rafal Banek of Des Plaines, Ill., and Paulette Vrem of St. Paul, Minn., are the first two graduates of a program that allows registered nurses to complete their bachelor of science degrees online.
"We're both very glad to be done, but it was a very interesting journey," said Vrem, who's been a nurse for about 20 years. "I'm hoping the University of Wisconsin establishes an online master's program."
She waved her arms in the air, grinning broadly as she crossed the stage after receiving her diploma.
Banek and Vrem joined about 650 other students in the line for bachelor's and master's degrees Saturday. Soaking rain drove the ceremony into the Weidner Center.
The weather didn't seem to subdue the graduates, who clapped long and loud when Chancellor Bruce Shepard acknowledged their parents.
At least one graduate came prepared for that moment — the top of her cap was marked "THX MA PA."
Class speaker Tana Koss asked her fellow graduates to think about all the influences — personal, financial, social and more — that helped bring them to this point.
"The list goes on and on," Koss said. "We are truly privileged."
Rep. Mark Green, R-Green Bay, was the commencement speaker and the last item on the program before the conferral of degrees.
He promised to be brief.
"I realize I'm one of the last things standing between you and a brighter future," Green said.
America will remain healthy under the influence of strong leaders, he said.
"That's where you come in, where you must come in," he told the graduates.
When Green was finished, Shepard approached the podium again.
"Are you ready?" he called.
The soon-to-be graduates shouted their response.
One by one they received their diplomas and walked across the stage before a packed house of family and friends.
The announcer mentioned the online nursing program when Banek and Vrem reached the stage.
Five UW System schools collaborated to create BSN-LINC — the Bachelor of Science in Nursing-Learning Innovations Nursing Center — with UWGB serving as the lead institution.
Banek and Vrem said the program requires personal discipline.
"You have to just set aside a certain amount of time every day," Vrem said.
"Online programs are not any easier than the regular programs," said Banek, a nurse since 1999.
About 100 students from 30 states are enrolled in the online program.
The program is helping some nurses reach their goals.
"I've always wanted to have a B.S.N. after my name," Vrem said just before graduating.
And now she does.
Awards and honors
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay held its 32nd spring commencement Saturday.
Several people were honored at the event:
• Suzanne M. Johnson, Outstanding Student Award from the UWGB Alumni Association, for academic success and contributions on campus and in the community.
• Carol B. Bush, Chancellor's Award from Chancellor Bruce Shepard, recognized for commitment to the university and contributions to the community.
• Three professors received emeritus recognition: David Galaty, professor emeritus of humanistic studies; Michael Troyer, associate professor emeritus of business administration; and Thomas Van Koevering, professor emeritus of education.
• Tana Koss was selected by the academic deans as the 2002 class speaker. She was honored earlier with the 2002 Chancellor's Medallion and the 2002 Woman of the Year award.
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