Local Residents Receive Degrees at 149th WPI Commencement

Three from North Reading received bachelor's degree's from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) on May 13, during the university's 149th commencement ceremony.

Elijah Gonzalez was awarded a bachelor of science degree in computer science with distinction.

Christopher Connor was awarded a bachelor of science degree in electrical and computer engineering with high distinction.

Cameron Hastings was awarded a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering.

This year's undergraduate address was given by Rodney Brooks, chairman and chief technology officer of Rethink Robotics. He urged them "to focus on three nouns: compassion, contribution, and community" as they chart their course through life, and to be open to the ability of others to enrich their lives in unexpected ways. He asked students to always look for ways to contribute and to maintain their WPI community connections while also continually building new communities through their work and other interests. "Don't scrimp on community," he said.

During the ceremony, Brooks received an honorary doctor of science degree, and Donald Peterson '71, a longtime member and former chairman of the university's Board of Trustees, received an honorary doctor of engineering degree.

WPI president Laurie Leshin, in her remarks to the class of 2017, congratulated the students for their accomplishments and for making the journey that "takes many twists and turns. Leshin concluded her remarks with a challenge to the students was to not only do well in their careers and for their families, but to do good throughout their lives.