Webb Institute 2013 commencement

Webb Institute's 117th commencement ceremony was held Saturday on the college's Glen Cove campus.

Number of degrees

Sixteen bachelor of science degrees in naval architecture and marine engineering were conferred.

Faculty speaker

President Robert C. Olsen Jr., spoke about how much graduates have grown and changed since their admission interviews. "Here you sit: confident, poised and ready to do anything you want," he said.

Guest speaker

George Campbell, president of Webb Institute's board of trustees and president emeritus of The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, told graduates to be proud of their education and to remember that it comes with considerable responsibility. "More turbulent waterways will demand a different set of standards and substantial innovation in naval architecture and ship design. Each of you has an important role to play in protecting and advancing our mastery over our critical infrastructure."

Student speaker

Colin Spillane, representing the Class of 2013, said: "The friendships that Webb creates are ones that truly stand the test of time." Quoting Dr. Seuss, he continued: "Don't cry because it is over. Smile because it happened."

Students react

Kierstin Del Valle, 22, of Belchertown, Mass.

"I'll move to Arlington, Va., and work for the Cruise Lines International [Association] ," said Del Valle. "I'm thrilled because it is what I've always wanted to do."

Doug Zangre, 21, of Brightwaters

"I'm moving to Seattle to work for Glosten Associates. They make flotation devices for offshore wind turbines." he said. "I'm excited to get out and work."

Roxanne Schacht, 23, of Beachwood, N.J.

"I'm going to California to work at Morelli & Melvin. I'm going to build yachts," she said. "I love it out there. Having fun and loving your job -- some say it isn't actually work."