Thomas Jefferson University Apologizes for Speaker’s Mispronunciation of Graduates’ Names
Thomas Jefferson University issued an apology on Friday after a speaker at its nursing student graduation ceremony mispronounced several graduates’ names, including the name Thomas, which is also in the university’s name.
During the ceremony, the speaker struggled with pronouncing names such as Molly Elizabeth Camp, Thomas Canevari, May V. Lee Zubeth Brotoski, Syer Ovoon Jean June Breenun, and Victoria Lee Zubithruss. Some graduates appeared confused, while others laughed or corrected the speaker.
Video of the mispronunciations went viral on social media platforms, sparking outrage and disappointment among viewers. The university acknowledged the errors in a statement, attributing them to the phonetic spellings on the speaker’s cards.
“We extend our sincerest apologies for the mispronunciations of the names of several of our graduating nursing students,” a university spokesperson said. “Each graduate deserves to have their name honored correctly on this pivotal day.”
The statement emphasized the importance of commencement as a milestone for students and their families, expressing regret for any disappointment caused by the mispronunciations. The university assured that the errors did not reflect the respect and value they hold for their graduates’ accomplishments.
Despite the mishap, the university remains committed to celebrating the achievements of its students and ensuring that future ceremonies uphold the dignity and recognition each graduate deserves.
