Graduate School of Education and Human Development Dean Mary Hatwood Futrell told graduates at the school’s graduation ceremony Saturday morning in Smith Center to continue their drive for knowledge even after they leave GW.

Futrell said education should be a lifelong endeavor.

“Never stop learning and never stop examining the world around you,” she said.

The GSEHD dean said graduates must be willing to embrace change and ensure that everyone can thrive in a constantly evolving world.

“When you walk through that door, reach back and have someone else come through the door with you,” she said.

Futrell also acknowledged Sheila Marie Day, a GSEHD master’s candidate who died April 13. The GSEHD faculty and the GW Board of Trustees both voted to posthumously award Day her master’s degree.

“(Sheila) would want us to move forward, have hope and realize your dreams,” Futrell said.

Tia McNair, who received a doctor of education, gave the Dennis H. Holmes Memorial Address as the ceremony’s student speaker. McNair exhorted her fellow graduates to focus on their own futures.

“From this moment on, it’s not about your degree, but about what you do with it,” she said.

McNair said graduates should strive to be leaders whose actions reflect their beliefs.

She said, “We need to focus on how we plan to influence society for the better.”