VCUQatar graduates at the ceremony. rIGHT: HE Sheikha Mayassa addressing the gathering.
Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar (VCUQatar) has conferred 39 Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees and five Master of Fine Arts degrees at its 2013 Commencement Ceremony on Monday at the Education City Student Centre.
The Bachelor degrees were presented in fashion, graphic, interior design and painting and printmaking, whereas the Master degrees were in Design Studies.
The 12th Commencement brings the number of VCUQatar alumni to 409. Dean Allyson Vanstone told the graduates that they are prepared to succeed in a global society increasingly defined by communication and design.
VCU president Dr Michael Rao reminded the graduates that their education will help them to get a job, help diversify their nation’s economy, and help create opportunities for others.
Qatar Museums Authority chairperson HE Sheikha al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani stated in her commencement address that VCUQatar is a place that dedicates itself to innovation and excellence.
“This is a place where learning is cherished and creativity nurtured. A place where beautiful minds have come to meet, and where the future is reinvented every day. And looking at your faces, dear Class of 2013, that future has never looked brighter.
“Made in VCUQatar confirms that our community is driving our nation to new cultural frontiers. We are not only translating ideas, but also making them right here, right now. That difference promise innovation, a unique voice and a vibrant brand.
HE Sheikha Mayassa reminded the graduates that with their gifts comes great responsibility and urged them not to lose sight. “Accept that solutions are not always straightforward. Create your brands, and leave a mark in this world for people to remember you, long after you’re gone.”
During the ceremony HE Sheikha Mayassa was invited to the podium by president Rao to confer upon her the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, VCU’s highest form of recognition.
President Rao was joined by Dr Beverly Warren, provost and vice-president for Academic Affairs at VCU in the presentation while Rector Dr John C Doswell II and dean Vanstone performed the hooding ceremony.
Graphic Design graduate and Valedictorian Leila Natsheh in her address to the graduates narrated their various experiences on their journey as the class of 2013. She thanked her parents, and the class, and concluded asking for them to stay in touch with each other and share their achievements.
The other dignitaries present for the ceremony included Dr David Prior, executive vice-president and provost, Hamad bin Khalifa University; guests from VCU Richmond – Joseph Seipel, dean of the School of the Arts, Dr Douglas Boudinot, dean of the Graduate School Susan Roth, senior associate dean of the School of the Arts, Dr Timothy Hulsey, dean of the Honours College; Board of Visitors – Stuart Siegel; and Joint Advisory Board Member - Dr Jelena Trkulja, director of education, Qatar Museums Authority, among others.
The 44 new VCUQatar graduates will join the band of 365 alumni who have gone on to successfully establish their own businesses or take up jobs in various positions in Education City, the semi-government and private sectors and ministries in Qatar.