Chatham Woman Graduates from Conn. College

NEW LONDON, CT -- Jeanna Dunleavy was awarded a bachelor of arts degree from Connecticut College at the 95th commencement ceremony on May 19.

Dunleavy majored in economics and American studies.

In a keynote speech punctuated with cartoon references and the occasional appearance by a 19th century poet, Emmy-winning television writer and producer Howard Gordon told the often hilarious tale of his own success and left the 443 members of the Class of 2013 with advice as profound as it is simple: Work hard and be nice.

Working hard will not guarantee success, he told the graduates, "But I have yet to meet a successful person who hasn't worked hard." Being nice, he added, is in many ways about listening to others. "Listening takes practice, and it takes patience. But I promise, if you listen, your story will be better for it."

Prior to giving his speech, Gordon was presented with an honorary doctorate of humane letters by Connecticut College President Leo I. Higdon Jr.

Connecticut College is a private, highly selective liberal arts college with 1,850 students and more than 40 majors in the arts, sciences, social sciences and humanities, as well as the option for students to self-design majors.