Monica B. Freeman, student speaker at Friday's ceremony, addresses her classmates.

Family members gather for a milestone.

A cheery student's tassel dances in the wind prior to Saturday afternoon's commencement.

Robert O. Rolley, Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient, offers pointers to the Class of 2009.

Robert V. Blauser thanks the college for his Alumnus Achievement honor.

Mom gets a kiss before entering the Arts Center.

Anticipatory joy

Realizing she has fallen behind in line, a student sprints to rejoin the procession.

Kelly A. Braun, graduating with an associate degree in dental hygiene, was Saturday morning's student speaker.

A student's lifeline, through the end.

A grad notices her fans before taking the stage.

A Saturday morning candidate awaits entry to the theater.

Penn College's highest faculty honor – the Veronica M. Muzic Master Teacher Award – was bestowed upon Christine M. Kessler, assistant professor of physician assistant.

Dottie M. Mathers, associate professor of medical/surgical nursing, was honored with an Excellence in Teaching Award.

Students help each other with wardrobe adjustments.

Preparing to cross the stage

A student takes a hands-on approach to recording his big day for posterity.

Technology management graduate Brian D. Walton delivers remarks at Saturday's afternoon ceremony.

A smile says it all for School of Hospitality grad Adam Krasley.

A moment for sharing thoughts

A student beams as she rounds the corner onto West Fourth Street.

Excellence in Teaching Award-winner Frank M. Suchwala, instructor of hospitality management/culinary arts.

Soon-to-be graduates acknowledge well-wishers as they enter the Community Arts Center.

Fresh from earning a degree in civil engineering technology, Temilade O. Agboola reunites with her family outside the Arts Center.

Photographer Luther Aungst demonstrates how students should pause for the camera as they receive diplomas from the college president.

Whether video, digital, film or cell phone – cameras were in ample supply in the graduates' cheering section.

Derek J. Goss, among the active- and reserve-duty military personnel in the graduating class, crosses the stage to greet Penn College President Davie Jane Gilmour and board of directors Chairman Robert E. Dunham.

Lifelong learner Ellen M. Bardo – who enrolled after a job layoff – celebrates her associate degree in human services. Next stop? A bachelor's degree starting in the fall semester.

Newly conferred grads exit the Arts Center.

Proud parents convene with their son in front of a camera.

Under the reflective eye of Jennifer McLean (director of counseling, career and disability services), the Class of 2009 solemnly enters the auditorium.

President Gilmour turns the tassel of class representative Monica B. Freeman, ceremonially affirming her bachelor's degree in applied human services.

A one-of-a-kind cap

A warm embrace says "I'm proud of you."

A brand-new grad heads out of the theater and into the world.

Gail A. Campbell, records retrieval assistant in the Registrar's Office, was a much-sought-after resource for the proper wearing of academic hoods.

Graduate Aaron S. Haefner celebrates with family, including proud father Steve R., director of the college Advisement Center.

Grads gather with family and friends for post-ceremony photo sessions.

A classmate lends a helping hand during preparations at The Genetti Hotel.

Seconds after leaving the Arts Center, a brand-new graduate embraces an obvious supporter.

Loyalsock Middle School seventh-grader Leah Nason provided a crowd-pleasing rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Friday's ceremony.

President Gilmour moves Kelly Braun's tassel to the left, symbolizing the student's metamorphosis into a Penn College alumna.

James E. Temple, an assistant professor in the School of Construction and Design Technologies, installs the college mace as commencement marshal.

Dental hygiene faculty members add typically bright smiles to their students' joyful day.

Elizabeth A. Adzema joins her parents – including Mom (and college Residence Life secretary) Barbara A.

Brian D. Walton and the college president continue the tradition.

As students await their procession, a time for pictures.

Plastics majors stop for a group photo on their way to the Arts Center.

From left, the quartet of Andrew Degan, Thomas Degan (Class of '09), 2008 alumna Jennifer Lauver and Justine Leaman sing the national anthem Saturday.

Volunteers' makeshift flower shop under the marquee allows for last-minute gifts for graduates.

College President Davie Jane Gilmour, right, visits with (clockwise from bottom left) Bonnie R. Taylor, retiring associate professor of business administration/management; Francesca M. Troutman, assistant dean of business and computer technologies; and Steven H. Wallace, assistant dean of transportation technology.

Colorful signs helped these family members connect with their graduate after Friday's commencement.

A father congratulates his daughter.

A graduate poses with a loved one.

It's full speed ahead for Allyson J. Roan, who earned her degree in baking and pastry arts.

Sunshine and smiles were in abundant supply for Friday afternoon's proceedings.

Sharing a last moment as students