UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — More than 1,300 Penn State students received their baccalaureate degrees at the College of Engineering's spring commencement exercises on May 5 at the Bryce Jordan Center.
This year's commencement address was given by Patricia Stevens, a Penn State mechanical engineering alumna and chief technologist for Boeing Phantom Works Rotary Wing Programs.
Stevens explained the value of embracing two different worldviews — 'We Are' and 'I Am' — to the audience.
"When it comes to an argument in support of the power of 'We Are' there is no denying diversity," said Stevens. "But you will not have effective diversity without appreciation and respect for the experiences and perspectives of the individual."
She explained how the two concepts work together by likening them to an automobile's design.
"'We Are!' is the engine providing the power. 'I am' is the traction between tires and the road," said Stevens. "Without that traction, the engine makes a lot of noise but doesn’t get you anywhere. On the other hand, without the engine, even the most highly engineered handling system is just a museum piece."
Another important concept that Stevens related to both worldviews was commitment to community and social justice.
"There is no greater example than THON," said Stevens. "But commitment to community at Penn State goes well beyond THON, and the 'I Am' in this case is the linkage to personal values."
She went on to challenge graduating seniors to memorize the following statement: 'I am accountable for my life and my choices.'
"We are each accountable for our own career development, our choice of life partner, our choice of time spent at work or with family and our choice of values," said Stevens. "Claim your own life."
She cautioned the audience that taking personal accountability is not always easy.
"Choosing the right mentors and friends makes it easier — and very rewarding," said Stevens. "The good news is that you are all Penn State Engineers. You've proven that you can face a challenge and thrive!"
Stevens' entire commencement address can be downloaded on the College of Engineering's commencement page.