With an admiring nod to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Carissa Greenhow quoted from his poem “Excelsior” and encouraged her fellow graduates to “reach onward and upward” at Macomb’s 89th commencement on May 10.  Greenhow, who graduated with an associate of applied science degree from the College’s Physical Therapist Assistant program, was the Most Distinguished Graduate and commencement speaker.  Her degree was one of approximately 1,500 awarded by the College at the end of the winter 2013 semester. A Detroit native, Greenhow, 21, intends to transfer to Oakland University and pursue, ultimately, a doctorate in physical therapy.  “When I began at Macomb, I thought when I finally walked across this stage I would be finished with my education,” Greenhow told her audience.  “But the professors at Macomb have inspired me, like many of you, to continue that journey and pursue even loftier goals.”

Brandon Gallo appreciates the steady job he’s had for 15 years.  But, after taking classes in Macomb’s Media and Communication Arts (MACA) program, he’s decided it’s not the one he intends to retire from.   “After coming here, I finally get to do what I love,” says Gallo, who will graduate in December with a degree in creative imaging/illustration and whose work can be seen in an exhibit in the South Campus Art Gallery (S Building Lobby) through the summer.  Gallo (pictured here next to his work in the exhibit) already has a job lined up with Topps, a leading producer of themed trading cards, including a popular Star Wars series.  It’s an opportunity that came his way because of Matt Busch, his professor. “I can’t say enough about Matt or this program,” offers Gallo.  “It’s changed my life.”