Dear Class of 2016,

You are now part of the legacy of Washington State University, and the College of Arts and Sciences is proud to have been your partner during your academic journey.

You are the next generation of leaders. Whether you are a physics major going on tomedical school, a history major leading a startup company, a writer sharing a story, or an informed parent at the PTA meeting, your intellectual curiosity and diverse experience make you a valuable member of society.

We are a richer community because of your voices and we are excited to see where you go and what you achieve in the years to come.

As undergraduates, you played an important role in our college beyond your chosen major. You brought diversity to our core graduation requirement courses and your participation in extracurricular research and activities such as the Cougar Marching Band, Coffee and Politics discussions, and dozens of student clubs enhanced the experience for everyone.

As master’s or Ph.D. students, your contributions provided valuable focus and intensity to our scholarly, creative and research communities. Your newly developed expertise will enrich the fabric of humanity on many levels.

The diploma you will receive in the mail in just a few weeks is a tangible reminder of your success and the potential you possess to truly make a difference in your community— whether it is down the street, across the state or around the world.

I hope to see you at the Commencement Ceremony Saturday and I look forward to the opportunity to tell you in person how proud we are of your accomplishments.

Congratulations and, yes, go Cougs!

Daryll B. DeWald

Dean

College of Arts and Sciences