Skidmore's Class of 2012, totaling 627 baccalaureate candidates, participated in the College's 101st Commencement on Saturday, May 19, at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Grace Burton, associate professor of Spanish, was chosen by the graduates to deliver the commencement remarks. A Skidmore faculty member since 1987, she was the recipient this year of the college's Ralph Ciancio Prize for Excellence in Teaching. Whether leading classes in introductory Spanish and intermediate language and literature, or working with advanced independent students, "language and literature come to life through Grace," noted a recent Skidmore graduate.

The following Needham students received a degree:

• Isabel Cain received a BA degree Summa Cum Laude.
• Rachelle Heger received a BA degree.
• Gabriel Weintraub received a BSA degree.
• Rachel Wolfson received a BS degree Magna Cum Laude.

Others congratulating the graduates during the program were Skidmore President Philip Glotzbach, Janet Lucas Whitman '59, chair of the board of trustees, and Melvis Langyintuo, president of the Class of 2012.