Gateway

Issue date: 6/3/08 Section: News

Commencement was held in the Omaha Civic Center. Thirty-seven international students also graduated as part of the 2008 spring class. (Taylor Muller) [Click to enlarge]

More than 1,200 students received degrees and became alumni during the May 9 commencement ceremony.

The students, who represented 23 states as well as 26 countries, swelled the Omaha Civic Auditorium with academic robes and flashing tassels.

During the ceremony, NU Board of Regents member Bob Whitehouse addressed more than 5,500 graduates' relatives and friends.

"It will be our honor to call each of you alumnus of the University of Nebraska at Omaha," Whitehouse said. "You have worked extremely hard and we salute you for your perseverance."

UNO Chancellor John Christensen was also presented a citation for alumnus achievement. He is the first UNO graduate and Omaha native to lead the university.

"He has brought talent, experiences, passion … to campus and put into place an ambitious vision for great things to come," said Rod Oberle, chairman of the UNO Alumni Association. "For this, and his professional accomplishments, civic leadership and contributions to our city, the UNO Alumni Association is proud to present John Christensen the citation for alumnus achievement."

The chancellor's medal was presented to Kathy Pfeiffer for exhibiting unusual excellence in carrying out the university's mission and values.

Pfeiffer has served as the budget coordinator since 2000, but has been part of UNO since 1979.

Aaron Albin, who graduated with a bachelor of arts in English, delivered the student address, titled "Tomorrow's Heroes."

"I'm grateful to UNO because it has made two things out of me: a critical thinker and a servant to my community," Albin said.

Whitehouse also imparted best wishes from the Board of Regents to the graduates as they venture out into the world and job market.

"Continue to spread the good word about our university, yet remember your actions and deeds will say far more about your character than your degree ever will," he said. "We wish you well, much success. … Good luck to each of you."

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