6 From Waltham Graduate from WPI

The largest graduating class in WPI’s history, 1,680 students, received their degrees beneath a large, billowing tent that shielded graduates and well-wishers from the sun that occasionally peeked from behind generally cloudy skies. In all, the Institute awarded 956 bachelor’s degrees, 682 master’s degrees, and 42 PhDs during its 147th Commencement exercises, said an announcement.

The following residents from Waltham recently graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI):

James Process was awarded a master of science degree in computer science.

Andrew Sawchuk was awarded a master of science degree in computer science.

Prachi Jagade was awarded a master of science degree in information technology.

Samuel Neu was awarded a master of science degree in mechanical engineering.

Rashmi Rajaraman was awarded a master of science degree in operations design and leadership.

Robyn Lindsay was awarded a bachelor of science degree in robotics engineering with distinction.

Thousands gathered to hear messages delivered by WPI President Laurie A. Leshin; Class of 2015 speaker Roman Gutierrez, and keynote speaker Bernard A. Harris Jr., M.D., an astronaut who became the first African American to walk in space, and who went on to become the founder and president of the Harris Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to “empower individuals, in particular minorities and others who are economically and/or socially disadvantaged, to recognize their potential and pursue their dreams.”