Boston, MA – September 6, 2005 – Wentworth Institute of Technology presented diplomas to 489 graduates during its 94th commencement ceremony Saturday, August 20. The event was held on the campus quadrangle.

Dr. Zorica Pantic, Wentworth's new president, delivered the commencement address to students, faculty, parents, alumni, administrators, community leaders and friends of the Institute. Dr. Pantic spoke about Wentworth's academic excellence, its community service programs, and the college's economic impact on the state and region.

Former Mechanical Engineering technology Professor Raymond Tavares was presented an Honorary Doctorate in Engineering Technology. Professor emeritus Tavares was praised for his excellence in teaching, advising, and mentoring students during his 40 year tenure at Wentworth.

Rep. Jeffrey Sánchez, D-Boston, 15th Suffolk District, was also presented an Honorary Degree of Engineering Technology. Rep. Sánchez was honored for his efforts in promoting higher education to young people in the Mission Hill and Fenway neighborhoods that surround the college.

The largest number of degrees were presented to students who have completed their studies in electronic and mechanical engineering technology (135). Other major degree programs included architecture (66); civil, construction and environment (87); computer science and systems (61); design and facilities (50); and professional and continuing studies (52). Other areas of study included applied mathematics and sciences and humanities, social sciences and management.

"A Wentworth education has never been more relevant," said Dr. Pantic, who began her duties on Aug 1. "We fully expect that our graduates will become entrepreneurs, leaders and innovators. These graduates support and continue the century-long tradition of Wentworth as an engine of growth and economic development for our region and state," she added.

Commitment to Wentworth
Professor Emeritus Raymond Tavares, affectionately referred to as "T" by his students, contributed his best while at Wentworth.

Tavares was diligent in bringing engineering innovations to Wentworth during his 40-year tenure as a professor of mechanical engineering technology. Tavares was a co-founding member of the Electromechanical Engineering Committee and program, paving the way for Wentworth to receive accreditation for its electromechanical engineering program.

Tavares was influential in many areas of Wentworth. He acted as senator and vice chair to the Faculty Senate, and participated regularly at Wentworth's various open houses, Discovery Days, commencements, and many student organizations, including the Mini Baja club and Student Chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Club.

Tavares' compassion for teaching has been recognized multiple times. In 1978 he received the Teacher of the Year Award, and in 1994 he was the recipient of the Grant Johnson Award for outstanding teaching. His effective advising to students has also been merited; he received the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Faculty Advisor Appreciation Award in 1990, and the Charles A. Rosselli Award for best Student Group Advisor in 1993. Taveres has also received praise from the Alumni Association, first with the Distinguished Service Award in 1990 and then in 2002 with the prestigious Gold Leopard award for service, dedication and leadership to the Institute.

These accomplishments are the result of Tavares' enduring commitment to his students.

"Over the 40 years he has been at Wentworth," Carl P. Evans, BELM '01, said, "he has contributed to the success of an untold number of engineers and technologists and has helped Wentworth transform into a great institution of higher learning."

"Professor Tavares was not only a very talented mechanical engineer," Evans added, "he's a genuinely good person."

Connected to his District
Recently name vice chairman of the Legislature's Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies, Rep. Sánchez has created strong partnerships with the medical and academic institutions in and around his district.

"I am honored to receive this recognition from Wentworth," said Rep. Sánchez. "Working in partnership with Wentworth, we have been able to develop educational programs for the Mission Hill and Fenway communities that have enriched the lives of people young and old. I congratulate all the graduates and wish them well in their lives and careers," he added.

Rep. Sánchez' legislative efforts have included increased patient access for asthma education and training, lifting enrollment caps on certain MassHealth programs, and increased development for summer jobs for young people. Housing and community development have been among his chief priorities, prompting Rep. Sánchez to file a number of bills to promote and expand affordable housing opportunities in Boston and throughout the state.

Rep. Sánchez attended the Maria Umana Harbor School of Science and Technology. He worked in various capacities for the City of Boston, including service as the community liaison to the Jamaica Plain and Mission Hill neighborhoods and the Hispanic community citywide.