As he was giving the students instructions at rehearsal the morning of Salus University’s 129th commencement ceremonies on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, at the Kimmel Cultural Campus in Philadelphia, James Caldwell, OD ‘89, Resident ‘91, EdD, Dean of Student Affairs, Associate Provost for Academic Affairs and the Graduation Day Showrunner, was going over some special instructions with Taylor Schanne, MMS ‘24, who was giving the graduate commencement address for the Class of 2024.   

Caldwell told Schanne that once she concluded her speech, she would exit stage right and return to her seat amongst her classmates. While that was happening, Caldwell said the pianist for the ceremony would play some music, presumably something classical befitting a commencement ceremony. When asked after the rehearsal if she could choose a song to walk off to, Schanne thought for a moment. 

“‘The Final Countdown’ by the band Europe is pretty good,” said Schanne, who hails from Nebraska. “But you know the final song in the film, The Breakfast Club — that would be a good song, too.”

The Breakfast Club, a 1985 teen coming-of-age comedy-drama, closes with “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by the band Simple Minds. Word of that got back to Caldwell. He consulted with the pianist for the ceremony, who knew the Simple Minds song and agreed it would be easy enough to insert into the ceremony at the appropriate walk-off moment. 

When it was her turn to speak during the commencement ceremony, Schanne shared with her classmates that during their time at Salus, the University had shaped the students to care for the whole person as a patient and the profound value of human life.  

“I urge you to carry the skills Salus has helped instill in all of us — those of collaboration, compassion, and empathy,” said Schanne. “I encourage you to take every opportunity to learn and to never stop asking questions, to continue to advance the field of healthcare, and to treat each patient with dignity and respect.”

And with that — and unbeknownst to her in advance — Schanne exited stage right to head back to her seat to the strains of “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds, played beautifully on the piano. 

This particular commencement was memorable for several reasons, but it will go down as historic in the sense that according to Salus President Michael H. Mittelman, OD ‘80, MPH, MBA, FAAO, FACHE, it’s the final fall ceremony where the diplomas will carry the name “Salus University.” Next year’s graduates will receive Drexel University diplomas, marking a new chapter in the two institutions’ shared journey of merging, pending approval by the United States Department of Education, specialized accreditors, and additional third parties. 

“The environment you are entering is one of constant evolution, from public emergencies to social and political shifts, success will require flexibility, compassion, and the ability to learn,” Mittelman told the graduates. “Salus has prepared you for this journey and now it is up to you to lead, innovate, and advocate for those you serve.”

During the ceremony, the University presented two Doctor of Humane Letters honorary degrees to Paul Jensen, PhD; Nina Henderson, Provost at Drexel University; and Elisabeth Van Bockstaele, PhD, Chief Strategy Officer and Senior Vice President for Graduate Education at Drexel University.  

Jensen encouraged the graduates to follow their interests and passions to maximize their impact on the world around them.  

“Continue to cultivate that internal drive that had led you to this moment and know that the passion that started you on this journey can continue throughout your life,” said Jensen. “The power you hold to change lives is exceptional. People you have yet to meet will benefit from the knowledge and practical experience you’ve gained.”

Van Bockstaele reminded the graduates that they have been well-trained in their respective professions and that they have been equipped with both the practical skills and collaborative mindset essential for success in today’s dynamic healthcare landscape.  

“As you embark on this new chapter, remember the impact you can make,” she said. “Healthcare is ever-evolving, and your role will be pivotal in navigating the complexities of patient care. Embrace innovation, advocate for your patients, and continue learning throughout your careers.” 

After the ceremony concluded, the newly hooded professionals streamed into Kimmel’s main foyer, amidst the flowers and picture-taking and into the celebrating arms of families and friends. 

For Lavinia Kitson, MMS ‘24, of West Chester, it was a huge relief to now be holding that graduate diploma.  

“It was a long time coming, but it was definitely worth it,” she said, soaking in the excitement and hugs of her family. “It was very inspirational. I’m ready to get out there.”

For her mother, Phoebe Kitson, watching her daughter fulfill a lifelong dream was obviously a special moment for a parent.

“She has been working on this since about the fourth grade,” said Phoebe Kitson. “I’m so proud of her. I think she’s brave, I think she’s courageous, and I know she’s smart. And, she’s also kind. To see her get ready to launch into the next part of her story is very exciting.”

The moment wasn’t lost on dad, either.  

“I well up in tears anytime I see my kids accomplish their goals,” said Doug Kitson. “Lavinia is an exceptional young woman. To see her achieve goals that she had set a long time ago, to see her stay focused and centered on what she wanted to do. To see all that today is a great accomplishment for us as parents as well.”

Learn more at Salus at Drexel University. Salus at Drexel University offers professional and graduate degree and certificate programs to nearly 1,200 students, both on-campus and around the globe, with more than 14,000 alumni worldwide.