Commencement to be ON CAMPUS: More information

Commencement to be ON CAMPUS : Originally Posted: Sunday, May 19, 2013

Alert Good morning.

Commencement will be held on Page Terrace as scheduled this morning at 10 a.m.

In making the decision to hold the ceremony outdoors on campus despite the iffy weather, President Fox kept in mind the strong preference of the Class of 2013.

Family and friends attending today's ceremony should use their best judgment regarding rain gear. Since the grassy hillside could be slippery should it become wet, we encourage guests to wear appropriate footwear and as always exercise appropriate caution.

Congratulations to all those who will receive their degrees today, and deepest thanks to all the family and friends whose support helped them along the way.
Boldly Baldwin word mark
LEADERSHIP GATEWAY »

Spencer Citizens

Spencer Citizens are passionate about service and quickly get involved in the local community and in global understanding. Multi-cultural experiences and travel opportunities enable participants to become agents of change, understanding that at the heart of leadership is service to others. Students take academic course work related to community change and engage in many hands-on projects serving the campus and local communities through the Spencer Center for Civic and Global Engagement.

Why become a Spencer Citizen? You understand the importance of your contribution to the welfare of your community and want to make a difference. You enjoy seeing the world from multiple perspectives and appreciate the diversity that exists at home and abroad. This may propel you to travel within and beyond the borders of the United States or deep within your own community.

Who may apply?  All students in the Residential College for Women may apply to be a Spencer Citizen. Commitment to making a difference is the only requirement.

Will I take classes as a Spencer Citizen? In addition to your academic schedule you will also take:

  • MBC 101: Orientation to College and to the Spencer Citizens Experience
  • CE 102: The Reflective Self in Community

Recommended Courses:

  • Philosophy 140: Community and Service Learning (optional) or
  • Sociology 282: Community Service and Society (optional)

Spencer Citizens are encouraged to complete a minor in Leadership Studies (Community and Social Change emphasis) and pursue the Semester of Service in their sophomore year. We also recommend taking foreign language classes to fully immerse yourself in cultures that enrich your perspective and understanding of how to make change locally and internationally.

What will I be participating in outside of class? You will engage in service throughout the year. You will have the opportunity to get involved with the Spencer Center and attend events such as Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week and International Cafes. You will also participate in a task force addressing a local or international issue.

Where will I live?  You will either live in Spencer or Woodson residence halls where you will meet other first year students who are Spencer Citizens. Commuter students are welcome.

Meet the Staff: Dr. Steve Grande is Director of Civic Engagement and Heather Ward serves as Director of International Programs.  They will help you plan your participation through the Spencer Center.

Beyond the First Year. After your first year Spencer Citizens have the opportunity to become a Citizen Fellow. Citizen Fellows inspire the next generation of Mary Baldwin changemakers by helping students get involved and make lasting change in the community.

2013 Draft Orientation Schedule

Alexcys Evans
As a freshman, my connection to the Spencer Center provided me with the relationships, experiences, and challenges that have helped me become a conscious student. I thoroughly appreciate the gateway’s continued communication and support of my passions for my education, this campus, and the Staunton community.
–Alexcys Evans ’13