Pearson, who recently became acting chair of the Department of Teacher Education, called on graduates to "join us ... in building images of hope-hope for our college and university, hope for our schools and our society, and, most of all, hope for our children."

Five seniors were recognized for special achievement. Jennifer Culver, an elementary education major from Battle Creek, was recognized for outstanding service to the college. As an undergraduate student representative to the college's Alumni Association Board, she helped organize the college's annual conference and served on the awards and scholarship selection committee. She was also active in the undergraduate student organization as vice chairperson and served as a student mentor and student ambassador. Culver delivered the student response on behalf of her classmates.

"Graduation is not an end," she said. "It is a passport to a new beginning. Let us challenge ourselves to actively

Recognized for having the highest grade-point averages in their respective programs were Patricia Spagnuolo, a biological science/secondary education major from Avoca, 3.95; Dawn M. Stampfly, an elementary education major from Coloma, 3.887; Brian E. Gregg, a physical education and exercise science major from Bath, 3.92; and Sheryl L. DeKett, a special education major from Mason, 3.97.

The University Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Nathel Burtley, a 1974 Ph.D. graduate of the educational administration and urban education program. This award recognizes attainment of the highest level of professional accomplishment, exemplary voluntary service, personal integrity, and character. It is the highest recognition given by the MSU Alumni Association to graduates of the university. Burtley, a former superintendent of the Flint Community School System and public school educator for 31 years, has most recently served as an assistant athletic director in MSU's Department of Intercollegiate Athletics.