Alumnus Frank Witthun to speak at Dec. 16 Commencement

December 11, 2006

More than 600 students received degrees at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater commencement ceremony Saturday, Dec. 16 in the DLK/Kachel Fieldhouse.

UW-Whitewater alumnus Frank Witthun and  UW-Whitewater senior Shauna Lee addressed the graduates this winter.

Witthun received his bachelor's degree in education and economics from UW-Whitewater in 1970. He is the executive director of Wells Fargo International and Insurance Services Group, the fifth largest insurance brokerage firm in the world.

In 2000, Witthun received the "Distinguished Alumni Award," from the UW-Whitewater National Alumni Association.

"I am quite honored to speak at commencement," Witthun said.  "I remember sitting in the audience in December 1970 and the incredible thrill I felt.  UW-Whitewater made a huge difference in my life and I am proud to be a graduate," he said.

Lee, a member of the university honors program, graduated summa cum laude from the College of Education with a B.S.E. in Spanish. 

As the student speaker, Lee hoped to send a message with relevance to her audience. "I wanted to make sure that what I say when I'm at the podium is meaningful for everyone."

Chancellor Martha Saunders added, "Commencement is probably my favorite day of the year," she said.  "With families, friends and faculty mentors around, our graduates have the chance to receive honest and well-earned applause. This year's speaker, Frank Witthun, is going to be great. Frank is a successful alumnus who wants to share lessons from his successful career. It will be a day to remember."