Graduates look to the future
By Jannette Jauregui Special to the Thousand Oaks Acorn

'WE MADE IT'-Jorge Tellez, 22, from Mexico and Tsungie Mzezewa, 22, from South Africa give each other congratulatory hugs before commencement at California Lutheran University. Tellez earned his degree in biological sciences, Mzezewa earned hers in economics. Both were flag bearers during the entrance ceremony. BILL SPARKES Acorn Newspapers

As the 527 California Lutheran University students receiving their baccalaureate degrees walked across the Mount Clef stadium stage to the rhythm of "Pomp and Circumstance" on Saturday, the cheers of their professors, peers and family members greeted them.

With a focus on promoting peace and globalization, Swedish diplomat Jan Eliasson addressed the graduates saying, "The world together is stronger than a nation alone. We must build peace, not desert nations."

He continued, "Remember the words of Shakespeare: 'There is a world outside your own.' As graduates, you are the future. Tremendous possibilities lie ahead."

Eliasson was one of three to receive Honorary Doctor of Law degrees during the undergraduate ceremony. Other recipients included businessman John Notter and businesswoman and member of the CLU Board of Regents, Joan R. Young of Westlake Village.

CLU's Class of 1966 was also honored during the ceremony, commemorating their 40 years as alumni of the 47-year-old university. Former CLU president Luther Luedtke and his wife, Carol, were inducted as honorary alumni.

Alexandra Mallen of Newbury Park, who was chosen as Senior of the Year by faculty and peers, spoke to her classmates about the journey they leave behind and the path they will soon take. Mallen was a key member of the Regals basketball team, leading CLU to the championships during the 2005 and 2006 seasons.

Mallen, who plans to pursue a career in sports marketing, isn't alone in embarking on an adventurous path. Kelly Tiller of Peoria, Ariz., won a competitive spot to participate in a summer internship program with the U.S. Embassy in Brussels, Belgium.

Chris Bailey of Prather will be attending Oxford University in England in the fall to pursue a graduate degree in international relations. Clarice Hammett of Bakersfield will be flying to Africa this fall as a member of the Peace Corps.

Gilbert Lira of Thousand Oaks and Daniel Thomas of Santa Barbara will soon be on active duty as members of the U.S. Marine Corps.

Many of the graduates have already secured jobs or have been accepted to graduate schools throughout the country.

At an afternoon ceremony, 316 students received master's degrees in business administration, public policy and administration, clinical psychology, computer science, counseling psychology, education, curricutional leadership, counseling and guidance, or special education. Dr. Charles Weis, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, addressed the graduates.

Also honored during the afternoon ceremony was the first cohort of doctoral candidates to receive degrees through the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program at CLU. Thirteen students are part of the inaugural class.

In his closing remarks to the undergraduates, Eliasson addressed all in attendance by saying, "Without passion, nothing can happen. Without compassion, the wrong things happen. Do with your heart what in the end will be right."

Jauregui is the media relations coordinator at California Lutheran University.