On Sunday, May 27, members of the Western Reserve Academy Class of 2018, along with their guests, families and others in attendance, will hear from this year's commencement speaker, Matthew J. Wilson, President of The University of Akron.
Wilson, a Hudson resident, has been praised for his student-first focus and emphasis on innovation and research. He has initiated several innovative programs at the University to benefit students, including the start of esports, a revision of the scholarship program to reward progress toward a degree and the start of "Five-Star Fridays," where classes are concentrated Monday through Thursday, and Fridays will feature numerous experiential learning opportunities. Before his presidency, Wilson served as dean of The University of Akron School of Law from 2014-16. He is stepping down from the UA presidency and returning to the law faculty onAug. 1. He also has nearly 30 years of global experience in international business and law.
"WRA and The University of Akron share a commitment to elevating education in our region and for our students," said Head of School Christopher D. Burner '80. "For example, in our Wang Innovation Center and at UA's forthcoming Innovation Practice Center, students find places to dream, collaborate and be entrepreneurs. As schools we must always evolve, react to new realities in our markets and sectors, and equip our students for their next great chapters, in college and life."
One hundred percent of WRA's graduates attend college, with this year's matriculation list including Harvard University, Cornell University, The University of Chicago and dozens more of the country's most highly selective universities. A recent survey of WRA alumni showed the top four career paths pursued by WRA Pioneers are business, medicine, education and law.
Western Reserve Academy's newest graduates will be awarded their diplomas during the ceremony, beginning at 10:30 a.m. on the Chapel lawn. During this time, recipients of the school's major prizes also will be announced. The celebration will conclude with the traditional student gathering around the flagpole to sing the alma mater.