F&M Stories

Franklin & Marshall College alumna Dr. Rahel Nardos '97, director of global health for Oregon Health & Science University's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, offered graduates at F&M's May 12 Commencement a perspective on her experiences growing up poor in Ethiopia.

"They were responsible for making me who I am today, what I chose to care about, how I define success, and how hard I am willing to work for it," said Nardos, who supports a women's health program in sub-Saharan Africa."What experiences shape your internal compass? What speaks to you at your core? Take time to find the answers to these questions," she told the Class of 2019. "They will be the source of your passion, your fulfillment and your resilience in the face of obstacles."

Robed in black, 540 students – including 94 international students from 28 countries and 97 first-generation students, crossed Hartman Green on a bright, blue, breezy day to ascend the stage where F&M President Barbara Altmann presented the graduates with their hard-earned baccalaureates.

View the highlights of a day that celebrated achievement:

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Commencement Speeches

President Barbara K. Altmann

Williamson Medalist Chaabane Yousra

Rahel Nardos '97, Commencement Speaker

Citations

Williamson Medal Recipient Yousra Chaabane '19

Dr. Rahel Nardos '97

Bebe Miller, Honorary Degree Recipient

Professor of English Nicholas Montemarano, Dewey Award Recipient

Professor of American Studies and Women's, Gender & Sexuality Studies M. Alison Kibler, Lindback Foundation Award Recipient

Executive Assistant to the Provost, Lydia Brubaker, Kneedler Award Recipient

Associate Professor Karen J. Campbell, Socrates Citation Recipient