Many students took the final step in their college career with a celebration of finally being finished. Weber State’s 146th commencement ceremony was held on Friday to honor those who have worked hard to earn either their associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree.
The Dee Event Center was crowded with family and friends who came out to support their recent Weber graduate. President Chuck Wight kicked off the event with his opening remarks. He congratulated those who maintained a full or part time job while attending school, those who have, or are currently, serving in the military, and those who were the first in their families to graduate from college.
Jaime Haderlie, Student Graduate Speaker, spoke of the journey she took that led to her donning a cap and gown. She began her college career in 2001 and earned her Bachelor of Arts in English this past Friday.
“As a freshman I had it made. I was a full time student with no job, all the time in the world, and all the opportunity in the world and I squandered it,” Haderlie said.
She finished four years of school and left to pursue a job. Later Haderlie discovered that this was one of the biggest mistake in her life. After a decade of working and starting a family, Haderlie was able to return to Weber.
“When you limit your education, you limit yourself. You limit your opportunities, skill set and you limit your life,” Haderlie said.
Roger Trinchero, President and CEO of Trinchero Estates was in attendance and received an honorary degree. Trinchero’s family has a vast selection of wines and spirits they produce. One of their most famous wines sold is Sutter Home.
Trinchero started his college career at UCLA with two goals in mind: he wanted to be the first to graduate college in his family and he wanted to play football. He left UCLA after two years due his grades but he soon found himself at a junior college, and eventually at Weber State, where he received his Bachelors of Science degree.
“Weber was a great fit for me as a student athlete,” Trinchero said.
Trinchero decided he would pursue his teaching certification at UCLA so that he could become a high school teacher and football coach. Prior to starting graduate school the following fall Trinchero found himself without a job therefore he could not continue with school. Trinchero was drafted into the Army during the Vietnam War.
“At that point in my life I was afraid, not so much of being in the Army but afraid of what my future would be now that my perfect career plan was but a memory,” Trinchero said.
Trinchero served two years in the Army and returned home to help his family’s business. Throughout his life, Trinchero has learned to be flexible when faced with situation that don’t go according to plan.
Teresa Miles, a nurse with McKay Dee, received her Bachelors of Nursing as well. She finished her degree online after attending 7 years with a full time job. Miles advice to students was to take school one day at a time and not to think too far into the future.
“Just get angry, get determined and keep your eye on the prize,” Miles said.
Congratulations to all the recent Weber State graduates!
