More Than 800 Students to Receive Diplomas at Widener University Commencement May 14

Widener University Spring 2011 Commencement Ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 14, 9:45 a.m. to 12 p.m., on Memorial Field behind Old Main. In case of inclement weather, it will move to the Schwartz Athletic Center Field House.

The President’s Award recipient is Bonnie Zwissler of St. Leonard, Md., the Valedictorian is Jonathan Krisco of Schnecksville, Pa., and the Salutatorian is Lauren Hoffman of Wenonah, N.J.

The commencement speaker is Rev. Debra W. Haffner, co-founder and executive director of the Religious Institute. Founded in 2001, the Religious Institute has emerged as the national leadership organization working at the intersection of sexuality and religion. The organization provides clergy, congregations, and denominational bodies with technical assistance on addressing sexuality and reproductive health, and assists sexual and reproductive health organizations to address religious issues and develop outreach to faith communities.

Rev. Haffner will also receive an honorary doctorate of public service degree.