Stacey M. Molski, of Middletown, N.J., delivered the valedictory address at Fairfield University's 58th commencement ceremony, and took the opportunity to urge her fellow graduates to follow their bliss.

Molski, who graduated with a bachelor's degree in Art History and a minor in theatre, encouraged the more than 1,200 graduates to find their passion in life and to not postpone pursuing their dreams. "Your Jesuit education has enabled you to develop personally so that you now have the power to do what you wish with what you have been given. Do not allow yourself to wait for that day in the future to create your happiness."

Molski spoke with a perspective on life of someone well beyond her years. "Begin with finding your passion, and do not feel like just because you are graduating you must know it now. I'm still trying to find mine. Do not feel pressured to go straight to what society says should be the next phase of your life."

She found Fairfield to be rich with opportunities, which allowed her to explore her passions of art and theatre - both on stage and backstage. At Theatre Fairfield, Molski performed with improvisational theatre groups, and collaborated on and performed in a student created production entitled, "The Theory of Noise." She also put her experience in drawing, painting and scene-painting to good use there by buildings sets for 'Cabaret,' and other shows. As a member of the technical crew at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, she helped with stage manager responsibilities for performances and charity functions, and prepared and struck sets for shows. At the Thomas J. Walsh Art Gallery, she assisted in the installation of exhibits, among other responsibilities. Diana Mille,

Ph. D., said, "Stacey was among the most competent, creative and responsible interns I have had during my ten-year position as gallery director."

Molski was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, which is for students who complete most of their course work in the liberal studies curriculum. Her other honors include being inducted into Alpha Mu Gamma, being named a Presidential Scholar, and graduating summa cum laude.

She is the daughter of Raymond and Anita Molski.

Posted On: 06-11-2008 10:06 AM

Volume: 40 Number: 282