Commencement 2015
Chancellor Patrick Gallagher presided over his first Pitt commencement since taking over as chancellor last August.
Chancellor Patrick Gallagher presided over his first Pitt commencement April 26 in the Petersen Events Center.
The University conferred approximately 6,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees this year at its five campuses. Pitt-Bradford, Pitt-Greensburg, Pitt-Johnstown and Pitt-Titusville hold their own commencement ceremonies.
Astronaut Charles F. Bolden Jr., administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), delivered the
NASA head Charles Bolden delivered the keynote address. Pitt awarded Bolden an honorary doctorate in public service.
2015 commencement address. As head of NASA, he has overseen the transition from 30 years of space shuttle missions to a new era of exploration focused on full utilization of the International Space Station and space and aeronautics technology development.
At the ceremony, the degree of Doctor of Public Service Honoris Causa was conferred upon Bolden.
The University Symphonic Band, under the direction of Bradley G. Townsend, provided music for the ceremony.
Audrey-Marie H. Winn spoke on behalf of the graduating class. Winn received a bachelor’s degree in Chinese, 
philosophy and English writing from the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences. Yang Song, who received a PhD in economics, addressed attendees on behalf of the graduate students.
