Your Alma Mater / Commencement Inspires Reflection

By William L. Pierce '99, '09

I had the pleasure of attending both commencement ceremonies in the Glass Bowl on Saturday, May 8. While there was a slight chill in the air, it was a picture-perfect day to celebrate our most recent graduates and newest alumni. I felt a sense of pride as each name was called, a pride that each student chose to attend my alma mater and pride in the fact that my alma mater helped prepare future leaders across a vast array of careers and disciplines.

More than 2,000 names were called, each a success story for which The University of Toledo played a role.

As I reflect upon my own experience as a student, undergraduate and graduate, as well as a longtime employee, I feel grateful for the investment UToledo has made in me and my family. I was forced to pause and take a moment on Saturday to think about my first day on campus to now standing on the field as the appointed leader of the Office of Alumni Engagement. I recognize that UToledo helped to shape my path from a small town in southern Ohio to what is now more than 20 years working in higher education. UToledo has been my home for more than half of my life and I cannot think of any other place I would rather be.

Thank you for your continued support. Stay safe and stay well!

William L. Pierce ’99, ’09
Associate Vice President of Alumni Engagement
Executive Director and Lifetime Member of The University of Toledo Alumni Association