Welcome - Faculty Marshal

Good morning everyone, and welcome.

My name is Sibelan Forrester; I am the Susan W. Lippincott Professor of Modern and Classical Languages and Russian and the Faculty Marshal.

Let’s begin our time together this morning in the Quaker tradition, with a moment of silent reflection. 

Welcome to this beautiful space. As a performing arts center, the Mann has welcomed a multitude of artists across many genres. As part of the greater Philadelphia community, it grounds itself in values of excellence, integrity, innovation, and inclusion, fostering a community marked by openness, fairness, and equality. 

Similarly, Swarthmore’s mission provides learners of diverse backgrounds a transformative liberal arts education grounded in rigorous intellectual inquiry and empowers all who share in our community to flourish and contribute to a better world. 

Commencement is a joyous milestone that allows us to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our graduates — the Class of 2024! — with family and friends. Today we celebrate your persistence and achievements, and we thank your families and friends who have supported you!