Commencement 1999

"May we here today be exhilarated"

Five Receive Honorary Degrees
154th Commencement Facts

Student Awards
Brittain Award: Cameron N. Welborn '99L
McMullan Award: Brant D. Brown '99C

Ones to Watch
Brian M. Oubre'99C
Katrina R. Samuels '99C
Stephanie M. Denton '99C
Kenya K. Hansford '99B
Jason R. Howard '99B

Oxford College Commencement
Millennial musings
"You have given us yourself"

William H. Murdy retired from the deanship at Oxford College after twelve years.

Oxford College Dean William H. Murdy presided over his final Commencement ceremony this spring and said goodbye to a group of students who will miss him greatly.

"[This campus] bears the mark of your devoted work, your love for the beauty of nature, your appreciation for the traditions and rich history of Oxford, and your continual commitment to improve and honor this wonderful place," said a tearful Elizabeth Smith '99Ox upon presenting Murdy with a scrapbook filled with photos of Oxford and handwritten good wishes from the Oxford Classes of 1999 and 2000. "You have given us your time, your energy, your care, but most of all, you have given us yourself."

Clearly touched by the gift, Murdy thanked Smith and all the students. "I'll cherish this for the rest of my life."

Murdy, the Charles Howard Candler Professor of Biology, was appointed Oxford dean in 1987, after serving on Emor'Ős faculty since 1959. On his watch, Oxford has added eight permanent faculty positions and expanded course offerings; increased diversity and decreased class size; seen a 45 percent increase in applications and a 150 percent increase in student financial aid; and begun renovation of several historic buildings.

"Bill Murdy . . . leaves Oxford College vastly stronger than he found it," said President William M. Chace. "Everyone who cares about both our founding terrain and our Atlanta home is in his debt."--S.P.