Durham Reporter

East Carolina University issued the following announcement on Dec. 4.

East Carolina University celebrated the accomplishments of more than 2,000 graduates with its 112th fall commencement on Friday, delivering a virtual ceremony because of coronavirus pandemic restrictions against large, in-person events.

Dr. Ron Mitchelson, ECU’s interim chancellor, noted the historical significance of the university’s first virtual fall commencement.

“I know that there is no substitute for a commencement celebration in person on our beautiful campus,” Mitchelson said. “We recognize that this ceremony is just another example of how COVID-19 has disrupted every aspect of our lives. Despite these unusual and challenging times, this is still one of the most important days of your lives, it is still an important day in the life of this university, and it is still a great day to be a Pirate.”

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He noted that graduates should take time to thank family, friends, faculty and mentors who supported them on their journeys toward an ECU degree.

“Know that we have witnessed your potential, we celebrate with you and we believe in you,” said Mitchelson, who announced earlier this week his plans to retire in June.

Student Government Association President Tucker Robbins speaks during virtual commencement.

Tucker Robbins, 2020-21 student body president, said some may look at COVID-19 as a thief that robbed graduates of special experiences, but he said students deserve credit for adapting to unusual circumstances.

“This pandemic has taught you how to overcome adversity. It has taught you the power of flexibility and the tenacity of determination. … You are a living example of what being an East Carolina Pirate is all about,” he said.

He said graduates put their hard work on full display, especially during the pandemic.

When I think of a Pirate, I think of grit and I think of resilience. That is exactly what the class of fall 2020 has demonstrated in the utmost of ways.

- Tucker Robbins, SGA president

He closed his remarks by reminding graduates of ECU’s motto of servire, telling them to serve others and share the treasures they gained from the university.

“Always represent with honor, class and integrity what it means to be a Pirate,” he said. “Don’t forget: When adversity finds you, give it no quarter, for we are the Pirates of ECU.”

He closed his remarks by reminding graduates of ECU’s motto of servire, telling them to serve others and share the treasures they gained from the university.

“Always represent with honor, class and integrity what it means to be a Pirate,” he said. “Don’t forget: When adversity finds you, give it no quarter, for we are the Pirates of ECU.”

Original source: https://news.ecu.edu/2020/12/04/sailing-new-seas/