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The graduation itself was fun despite 90-degree heat and matching humidity. We got to cheer ourselves hoarse several times. The first time was when the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences had all the Dean's Scholars stand to be honored (Kacy was Dean's Scholar in Geology, one of her two majors).

But the cheer that meant the most to Kacy was not for her, but for her mentor, Dr. Rhett Herman of the Physics Department, her nominee for the college's prestigious Distinguished Teaching Award. Dr. Herman pushed her and challenged her and helped her stay on track and never ever gave up on her or let her give up on herself. And the nomination submitted by Kacy and other physics students read in part: "He has turned our eyes to the stars and aroused our wonder at the complexity of the universe. He has shown us how the lessons of the earth may provide the answers beyond our planet. He has forced us to think and to challenge and to want to go out and find out the answers for ourselves. ... We can think of no one who better meets the criteria of outstanding scholarship, community service, and teaching excellence." Way to go, doc.

Still, there were plenty of times to cheer for Kacy: when she led the Geology Department across the stage as Dean's Scholar; then when she got handed the piece of paper that actually promised the school would mail her diplomas later. (Sigh.)

And then it was over, and we got to take a few minutes with just the brothers and sisters -- to congratulate, for Warren to say "it didn't suck" and for us all to ask her what took her so long...

Next installment (not ready yet...): the party!


Kacy's Graduation, May 2000
-- page four

Dean's Scholars honored
Dean's Scholars honored

Dr. Herman and his award
Dr. Herman and his award

Just a few more minutes...
Just a few more minutes...

Leading the geology department Leading the geologists

Getting the sheepskin The almost sheepskin

The sibs with the graduate
The sibs







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