WATCH: UC Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2011

View the slide show of UC's spring graduation ceremonies

After a very brief dry spell in Cincinnati this spring, overnight thunderstorms were still looming through the morning of the University of Cincinnati’s Commencement ceremonies, but they cleared out just as the morning ceremony got underway.

Even better, the sun was shining brightly after the morning ceremony, allowing for family photos of graduates as they took one last look at UC’s spectacular campus before setting off on their lives as UC alumni.

UC’s Fifth Third Arena was filled to capacity for the celebrations, as 4,843 students applied for graduation this spring.

President Gregory H. Williams told the graduates they join the ranks of nearly 250,000 living alumni.

“As our newest alumni, each of you will make your own mark in our world. Today opens a promising new chapter in your life journey – a journey that brought each of you to UC with your own story and circumstances,” he said.

“Class of 2011, your graduation today is mostly a beginning for a new stage of your life as someone fortunate to attain a college education, an education that means much more to you and your community than a mere job or career,” said President Williams.

UC alumnus John F. Barrett, chairman, president and CEO of Western & Southern Financial Group, addressed the graduates at both ceremonies, encouraging them to believe in the power of their dreams. “To dream and then study hard – use your skills and open the door to great opportunities, both in your professional and personal lives.”

“In realizing one dream, be ready for the next, because achieving one goal often creates another opportunity, so stay open to opportunities,” he said. “Whatever you do, be an active participant, not a witness.”

UC’s spring ceremonies also celebrated the Doctoral Hooding and Master’s Recognition Ceremony on June 10.

Video highlights from the Doctoral Hooding and Master's Recognition Ceremony

The slide show features highlights from all ceremonies.