June 6, 2006
Temple University, Japan Campus (TUJ) recognized the achievements of 210 new graduates on June 4 at a commencement ceremony at Tokyo’s Radisson Miyako Hotel. This was TUJ’s largest graduating class in four years.
The TUJ ceremony was part of the 119th commencement of Temple University, which took place on May 18 at the main campus in Philadelphia. Temple University President David Adamany flew in for the TUJ commencement, the second time he has attended the ceremony here.
Accompanying President Adamany were Robert A. Rovner, Temple Board of Trustees; Michael J. Stack, Temple Board of Trustees; Aquiles Iglesias, dean of Temple’s Graduate School; Concetta Stewart, dean of the School of Communications and Theater; James Earl Davis, associate dean of the College of Education; Miles Orvell, associate dean of the College of Liberal Arts; and Adelaide Ferguson, assistant vice president of International Programs and assistant dean of the Beasley School of Law.
In his keynote address, President Adamany congratulated the graduates on their accomplishments and wished them a future full of success. He commented on the vital contribution that education makes to flourishing democracies and economies around the world, noting especially that there is much to be learned from the Japanese experience. He concluded by highlighting TUJ’s importance as the largest component of Temple University’s international network.
Following President Adamany’s remarks, Minister Counselor for Environment, Science and Technology Affairs Joyce B. Rabens from the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo spoke to the graduates. Thomas F. Jordan, a member of the TUJ Board of Governors, also added his thoughts on the day.
Representatives of the graduating class then addressed the audience, followed by the high point of the ceremony, the presentation of diplomas. A total of 15 associate and 66 bachelor of arts degrees were awarded, and 7 masters of law, 16 masters of business administration, 35 masters of education, and 5 doctors of education were recognized.
TUJ Dean Kirk R. Patterson closed the two-hour ceremony, first adding his praise for the graduates and then recognizing the contributions of TUJ faculty and the support the graduates received from family and friends. He also called attention to President Adamany’s upcoming retirement in June, citing his many accomplishments during the six years he has guided the university.