Graduation is an accomplishment for any person, at any age. For 22-year-old Icces Wilcox, completing college was something for her and her entire family to celebrate. As a first-generation college student, she is the first in her family to obtain a four-year degree.
Saturday’s graduating class at Brescia University included 238 students — 34 of those students are graduating with an associate degree, 169 graduating with a bachelors degree and 35 students are graduating with their master’s degree.
After visiting Brescia while in high school, Wilcox knew she wanted to become a Bearcat.
“It just felt so friendly and like a home, and these last four years have proved that feeling,” she said.
Wilcox said being involved on campus helped her discover her passion.
As an orientation leader, peer educator, resident assistant, student activities program board member and student government officer, Wilcox said these opportunities led her to pursue an educational track in student affairs after graduation. She will be continuing her education at Murray State University in their Masters in Post-Secondary Education Administration program.
“The end of my undergraduate career is incredibly bittersweet, I have made Brescia my home,” she said. “The people here are my family and it will be hard to leave such an amazing group of people. I do know that Brescia has prepared me well for after graduation, and I am excited to always be a part of the Bearcat family.”
Wilcox said she thinks graduation is a culminating moment and that it is immensely rewarding.
“I do not think that my family nor I fully understand what it means for the future,” she said.
Brescia University shares in the teaching mission of Christ by helping students realize their God-given potential. Grounded in the Ursuline tradition, the university’s mission calls for educating students in mind, body, and spirit through challenging academics, championship athletics, and holistic student life.
During commencement, Christopher Reid was awarded an honorary doctorate.
Fr. Larry Hostetter said Brescia University is proud of alumnus Chris Reid, not only for his leadership in the business community but also his philanthropic efforts both personally and through Independence Bank.
“When choosing a speaker, especially those upon who we confer honorary degrees, we look for those we can serve as examples of the Brescia Difference to our students,” Hostetter said. “Chris Reid will certainly provide the inspiration to our students as they too leave Brescia and serve their communities.”
