Springfield College Holds Advanced Degree Programs Commencement
May 12
May 12, 2012
See photos here.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Charles H. Rucks, a well-known community leader and executive director of Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc., commended graduates of Springfield College advanced degree programs today (Saturday, May 12) for their commitment to helping others overcome obstacles to ensure success.
Speaking to master’s and doctoral degree recipients at the graduate commencement ceremony this morning, on Naismith Green, on the Springfield, Mass., campus, Rucks said “Your purpose is to ensure that the system is fair and transparent and to challenge the unfairness. Make sure everyone has the opportunity to succeed despite obstacles and limitations.”
Prior to Rucks’ speech, Springfield College awarded him an honorary doctoral degree. The college has, historically, awarded honorary degrees to a few outstanding individuals who, by their character and accomplishments, personify the college’s guiding philosophy, humanics. The philosophy emphasizes the dedication of spirit, mind and body for leadership in service to others.
Tomorrow, Springfield College will hold its undergraduate commencement at the MassMutual Center in Springfield at 9:30 a.m.
Rucks, of Springfield, has committed himself to improving the quality of life in his city and its neighborhoods. In his current position, Rucks has worked to transform distressed neighborhoods by helping to create sustainable home ownership opportunities for families. In this capacity, he was selected to represent 220 agencies nationwide as a participant at the White House Conference on Minority Homeownership held in Washington, D.C. Rucks began his community work with the Urban League of Springfield, where he served as the senior vice president.
