rRybacki is SU student commencement speaker

SALISBURY, MD ---Cristy Rybacki, a member of the Salisbury University Class of 2002 who receives both a Bachelor of Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in history/conflict resolution and dispute resolution, always thought that the role of commencement speaker was for other students, but surely not her.

"Somehow I didn't think a non-traditional student would be selected," she recalls. "But I guess we each have something unique to offer."

To her fellow graduates, she will share her "Clichés, Lyrics and Quotes: Words to Make Life's Journey Less Stressful and More Zestful" at SU's commencement ceremony on Saturday, December 21, at 2 p.m. at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center.

"I'd like to proffer some advice that may result in a smoother journey," Rybacki explained. "We're still learning that life is a dance you learn as you go . . . sometimes you lead and sometimes you follow. Attempt to view your circumstances with optimism . . . and stay focused on what is really important."

Rybacki moved to Salisbury with her family in 1985 and began taking courses at SU in 1995 having also attended Ohio State. She served on the search committee for the dean of the Seidel School of Education and Professional Studies and was named SU's Social Work Student of the Year for 2002.

She is a member of several academic honorary societies including Phi Alpha, Phi Kappa Phi, Alpha Sigma Lambda, Phi Alpha Theta and Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. In addition, she has earned the SU Achievement Key Award and Student Excellence in Writing Award.

Rybacki is an active volunteer for numerous community organizations and serves as liturgist and pianist at Bethesda United Methodist Church. The mother of three, she was a part-time student until her junior year. After graduation, she plans to continue her work counseling at-risk students in Worcester County schools.

"I have seen that students at Salisbury University are exactly the types of people in whose hands we can place our trust," she said. "Those who fought in World War II . . . are often called the Greatest Generation. But I can say without hesitation that my fellow graduates are part of a great generation indeed."

This December's SU graduating class of 605 includes 170 receiving the Bachelor of Arts, 313 the Bachelor of Science, two the Bachelor of Fine Arts, 12 the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, 14 the Master of Arts, 55 the Master of Education, 22 the Master of Business Administration, 13 the Master of Applied Teaching and four the Master of Science.

Admission to the Salisbury University commencement is by ticket only. A reception following the awarding of diplomas is on campus at the Guerrieri University Center Wicomico Room and Fireside Lounge, and does not require a ticket.

For more information about the graduation ceremony, please call the SU Public Relations Office at 410-543-6030.