Dickinson Celebrates the Class of 2025 at Commencement
DIckinson celebrates the class of 2025 during Commencement.
Video by Joe O'Neill
Congratulations, Class of 2025
Dickinson celebrated the largest graduating class in the college’s history on Sunday, May 18. Addressing the 601 members of the class of 2025, commencement speaker Tiffany Frey, associate professor of biology, told the graduates that though they face an increasingly complex world, she has great faith in their ability to overcome tomorrow's challenges.
“I remain hopeful because of all of you,” said Frey. “You have an education rooted in critical thinking, empathy, and a belief in the common good. And you have each other. We have each other. Thank you for all that you have done to make Dickinson a better place over the last four years. And thank you for all that you will do to shape a better future.”
Associate Professor of Biology Tiffany Frey addresses the class of 2025. Photo by Dan Loh.
Student Speaker's Address
The student speaker for the class of 2025, Tyler Lissy (political science), shared an inspiring message with his fellow graduates and reminded them of the value of the supportive community that is a cornerstone of the Dickinson experience. Chosen by a committee of faculty and peers, Lissy reflected on his growth over the last four years, from struggling with an injury that ended his football career at the college to thriving as a passionate student of international affairs.
“That growth wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for the supportive environment Dickinson fosters,” he said. “That is an invaluable piece of our college experience. ... For the class of 2025, let’s embrace the idea that growth comes from uncertainty and imperfection, and let us move forward toward a journey that is yet to be written.”
Tyler Lissy was chosen as the student speaker for Commencement. Photo by Dan Loh.
Recognition of Excellence
During the ceremony, Dickinson also honored outstanding faculty and students for their contributions to the academic and campus community. Sarah Kersh, assistant professor of English, received the Constance and Rose Ganoe Memorial Award for Inspirational Teaching, an honor determined by votes from the senior class.
Pranav Mishra and Benjamin Warren are recognized as the winners of awards for high academic standing and scholarly achievement. Photo by Dan Loh.
In addition, Benjamin Warren (data analytics, history), was awarded the James Fowler Rusling Prize for scholarly achievement, while Pranav Mishra (computer science, mathematics) received the John Patton Memorial Prize for High Scholastic Standing. The William F. Hufstader Senior Prizes, given to seniors who have made significant contributions to the college community, were awarded to Olivia Abbott-Havers (neuroscience) and Sofia Perrone (German, anthropology).
Sofia Perrone and Olivia Abbott-Havers are awarded the William F. Hufstader Senior Prizes. Photo by Dan Loh.
Harper Sinclair (neuroscience) was named the Young Alumni Trustee, and she will represent young alumni on Dickinson’s Board of Trustees for the next two years.
Honorary Degrees & Rose-Walters Prize
Brian Dorfler ’97, chief human resources officer of Versant, received an honorary Doctor of Human Resource Management degree. Photo by Dan Loh.
Dickinson also bestowed honorary degrees upon two distinguished alumni. Brian Dorfler ’97, chief human resources officer of Versant, received an honorary Doctor of Human Resource Management degree, while Jennifer Gass ’83, director of Breast Health Center at Care New England was honored with an honorary Doctor of Medicine degree.
Jennifer Gass ’83, director of the Breast Health Center at Care New England, was honored with an honorary Doctor of Medicine degree. Photo by Dan Loh.
This year's Sam Rose ’58 and Julie Walters Prize at Dickinson College for Global Environmental Activism was awarded to the Environmental Defense Fund, and Amanda Leland, the organization’s executive director, accepted the award, which was presented by Genesis Whitlock ’25, a student member of the Rose-Walters Prize Selection Committee.
President John E. Jones '77, P'11, tells the graduates to "get out there and change the world." Photo by Dan Loh.
As the graduates moved from students to alumni, President John E. Jones III ’77, P’11, also offered them heartfelt congratulations and encouraged them to make the most of their futures.
“It is time for you to take wing,” he said. “Be leaders and role models, seek justice, and always make adhering to the highest ethical standards your true north star. Now, get out there and change the world.”
Photo by Dan Loh.
View more photos on the college's Facebook page.
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Published May 20, 2025