Published by OECD NEA on June 8, 2021

NC State College of Engineering Dean, Dr. Louis Martin-Vega, spoke at the afternoon session of the global nuclear science and engineering graduation celebration.

“Those of you who are graduating into this field now are embarking on a great adventure. One the likes of which we’ve not seen in a great many years. One that shows nuclear energy is part of the solution to many of the world’s problems.”

– NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly interrupted many aspects of everyday life, including the opportunity for many students across the globe to celebrate their graduation through an in-person commencement ceremony. This year many students may not be receiving traditional ceremonies and festivities, while transitioning or attempting to transition to professional careers at a time of great uncertainty and economic upheaval.

In this context, the NEA hosted its second annual global nuclear science and engineering commencement on 4 June 2021 to celebrate and recognize the accomplishments of the graduating classes of 2021, especially those within the nuclear science and technology fields. The event featured remarks by representatives from the global nuclear sector, the academic community and the younger generation working in nuclear science and engineering.

“With COVID-19 raging still across the world, it is very difficult for universities to hold their traditional commencement ceremonies. These ceremonies are very important because they both celebrate the accomplishments that’s students have made in completing their studies, and also give important words of advice that move students forward into their careers,” said NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV during his opening remarks. “Because of COVID-19, many of these ceremonies have been cancelled. However, we at the Nuclear Energy Agency have concluded that there is value and recognizing the accomplishments of those who have been through the difficult studies of nuclear engineering, nuclear science, and other areas related to nuclear technology.”

Article is continued here.
View morning session & afternoon session featuring Dr. Louis Martin-Vega, NC State University Dean of Engineering