Elms College is pleased to announce globally recognized MIT materials scientist Christine Ortiz, Ph.D., as the keynote speaker at the 94th commencement. The college will also honor Paul M. Stelzer, outgoing Board Chair and retired President and CEO of Appleton Corporation, and Deborah Vo, an alumna and distinguished community development leader in Alaska, with honorary degrees.
Commencement Details:
WHAT: College of Our Lady of the Elms’ 94th commencement exercises
WHEN: Saturday, May 17, 2024 at 10 a.m.
(academic procession starts at 9:30)
WHERE: MassMutual Center, Springfield, MA 01103
Commencement Speaker:
Christine Ortiz, Ph.D., is MIT’s Director of Technology & Policy Program and is the founder of Station1, which is focused on socially-directed science and technology education, research, and innovation, developing new models for research and learning. A recipient of the Presidential Early Career Award in Science and Engineering, Dr. Ortiz has been globally recognized for her work in biotechnology, nanotechnology, and materials science advancements. Her address will inspire the Class of 2025 to lead with mission and purpose.
Honorary Degree Recipients:
Paul M. Stelzer, retired President and CEO of Appleton Corporation and the departing chair of the Elms Board of Trustees, has led a 48-year professional real estate career. He has been involved in some notable real estate developments, including the World Trade Center, in Boston, MA, and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, in Springfield, MA. Stelzer has been involved in numerous organizations, including Western Mass Food Bank Support Corporation and Springfield Economic Development Corporation.
Deborah Alstrom Vo, a proud 1989 alumnus of Elms College, is dedicated to improving the lives of Alaskans through her work as a Program Officer at the Rasmuson Foundation, supporting community development. In recognition of her leadership, Vo was appointed by President Biden in 2021 to the U.S. Arctic Research Commission, where she helps shape scientific research priorities for the Arctic. A lifelong Alaskan, she has leveraged her Elms College education to drive meaningful change, strengthening the communities she calls home.