Into the World

GAMBIER, Ohio (June 14, 2005) Amid clicking cameras, rounds of hugs, and a stately splendor befitting the occasion, another cohort of Kenyon students made their way into the world this spring. At the College's 177th Commencement ceremony, held on May 21 beneath the towering trees of Kenyon's historic south campus, 387 graduating seniors received their bachelor's degrees.

The Commencement address was given by the noted writer David Foster Wallace, who also received an honorary degree from the College. The author of short stories and essays as well as novels, Wallace is perhaps best known for the novel Infinite Jest. The other honorary degree recipients included architecture critic Paul Goldberger and art historian William B. Scott.

Three retiring Kenyon faculty members and a retiring administrator received honorary doctorates as well: Camilla Cai of the music department, Harlene Marley of the drama faculty, Roy T. Wortman of the history department, and Richard L. Switzer, the College's long-time registrar and more recently an associate provost. The Baccalaureate address was delivered by Professor of History Reed S. Browning.