Honorary degree recipient Mary Patterson McPherson, retired president of Bryn Mawr College

More than 90 students received their diplomas at the University's Fall 2000 Commencement ceremony on Dec. 3 in Lincoln Theater. Speaking at the ceremony and receiving honorary degrees were Frances Daly Fergusson, president of Vassar College, and Mary Patterson McPherson, retired president of Bryn Mawr College. In addition, Helen and Harry Jack Gray were presented with Honorary Alumna/Alumnus Awards to recognize their philanthropy and their commitment to improving the lives of people living and working in Greater Hartford.

Fergusson was named one of America's 200 Most Influential Women in 1998 by Vanity Fair magazine and has been the president of Vassar College since 1986. She is a member of the board of trustees of the Ford Foundation and chairs the board of trustees of the world-renowned Mayo Foundation (Mayo Clinic).

McPherson retired in June of 1997 as Bryn Mawr's president after 36 years of studying, teaching, and leading. She is currently vice president of the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation in New York City, having previously served as senior program officer.

The Grays have given more than $20 million to Hartford-area organizations, especially those representing the arts, health, medicine, and education. The University of Hartford has greatly benefited from the generosity of the Grays, who have given nearly $7 million to help fund buildings such as the Harry Jack Gray Center and the Helen Buckley Gray communications wing, as well as programs in the arts and humanities. Helen and Harry Gray are distinguished life regents of the University, and Harry Gray continues to provide leadership for the University by serving as honorary chair of the University's 10-year, $175 million Campaign of Commitment.

"I always get mentioned first, but Helen deserves much credit for making Greater Hartford a better place to live, work, and study," said Harry Gray in accepting his award.

He told the graduates that his commitment to giving back and helping to improve the quality of life in his community came from a pledge he made as a 25-year-old soldier fighting in Europe during World War II. "I ask you to stay in touch with this school and give it your support so that the University of Hartford can serve those who follow you."

"This University and the city of Hartford are very glad that you made Hartford your home," said University regent Roger Klene '90 (at podium) in presenting Honorary Alumna/Alumnus Awards to Helen and Harry Jack Gray. Gray has been a mentor for Klene, who is now president and chief operating officer of Mott Corp., a $30 million manufacturing company based in Farmington, Conn.