The Woods celebrates 171st Commencement

SMWC President Dottie King, Ph.D.,
with Myra Daniels

Advertising executive, entrepreneur and a philanthropist, Myra Janco Daniels, one of the most accomplished women in advertising, received an honorary doctorate of humane letters and delivered a powerful commencement address on success.

“To be successful is to be part of a team,” explained Daniels. “Successful people give to others and they give to their communities. And when you give, you also receive. That’s one of the oldest lessons of human nature, and one that you were taught here. But it’s a lesson we often forget.”

She encouraged the graduates to discover what they are passionate about, “to always take inventory, recognize opportunity, and take intelligent risks.”

King with Rachel Ambrose

Each year the College presents the Distinguished Alumnae Award to graduates who epitomized The Woods tradition of excellence by their professional achievement, personal accomplishments. This year’s recipient was Rachel Eberle Ambrose’64 retired Associated Press journalist. She was recognized for her leadership in maintaining a level of career excellence over her lifetime and for her commitment to her alma mater. Ambrose also received an honorary doctorate of humane letters.

After the ceremony was a time for celebration and reflection.

“I am so excited to be here,” said Kerry Muñoz, Woods Online education major from Lakeland Fla. “I have two children and I want to show them that you can work hard to achieve your goals.”

Muñoz indeed worked hard. She graduated summa cum laude and was the recipient of the Maud Helm Rockwell medal for academic excellence.