Commencement marks new beginning at Youngstown State University

YOUNGSTOWN — Commencement signified more than just a beginning for the latest graduating class from Youngstown State University.

Scott R. Schulick, president of the university’s board of trustees, said it also marked a new beginning for the university itself, under the new leadership of president Dr. Cynthia E. Anderson, who took over the reins July 1 after the retirement of former president Dr. David Sweet.

Schulick said Anderson is the first woman, first YSU graduate and first Youngstown-area native to head the university. She is YSU’s seventh president,and has chosen “student success and academic excellence” as the theme of her presidency, Schulick said.

“This is a special day for all of us,” Anderson said as she stepped to the podium during commencement exercises earlier today in YSU’s Beeghly Center. She pointed out that before becoming president, she spent 15 years as vice president for student affairs at YSU. In that capacity, she got to welcome the graduating class when they were incoming freshmen. And now as president, she was able to congratulate them on their graduation.

For the complete story, see Sunday's Vindicator and Vindy.com