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From a Trolley to a UPS Truck: Widener Graduates Ride in Style at Commencement

May 14, 2021

Widener lion mascot gives high fives to people in a trolley

In a highly unique approach, Widener celebrated commencement for 2020 and 2021 undergraduate and graduate students over four days with nine mini ceremonies at Memorial Field and drive throughs in front of historic Old Main. The approach allowed graduates and their families to celebrate in the format that worked best for them.

Showing their Widener pride, graduates and guests took advantage of the drive-through option to decorate their vehicles and ride in style in trolleys, limos, delivery trucks, and more.

Check out the rides and moments that made this year's drive through unforgettable.

Graduate puts arms in the air while in the back of a blue vehicle

Graduate in cap and gown gives thumbs up in front of trolley

Graduate talks to staff member in front of UPS delivery truck

Two lion mascots pose with a graduate in a car

Graduate stands in front of black bus and sign that says "Congratulations Connor, Class of 2021, We are so proud of you!"

Graduate stands in front of white truck decorated with pictures of herself

Truck decorated with the word "done" parks in front of Old Main building

Semaj Smith-Barber ’28, a construction management student, reflects on how volunteering—from his early experiences in Chester to Widener’s annual MLK Day of Service—shape his sense of belonging, career, and commitment to carrying forward the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of unity, equity, and compassion.