Azerbaijan, Czech Republic, Egypt, Haiti, Pakistan, Serbia and Thailand were some of the 20 countries of origin of the 30 new American citizens who took the Oath of Allegiance at a Citizenship and Naturalization Ceremony inside of Lee Chapel on Tuesday, Sept. 17. 

“I can see that the journey our students are taking and the journey you are taking are in some ways similar,” said President Christopher F. Roellke, PhD. “They grow, they adapt and change, just as you have changed through this process of obtaining a U.S. citizenship. Finally, when our students are ready, they go out into the world with one goal: they become good citizens, good people who contribute to the communities and to the world. I can only hope the same for each and every one of you.” 

The Daytona Beach News-Journal quoted Altaf Karim, 56, who emigrated from Kenya in 1986 and works as an accountant in Sanford, where he resides. 

“It feels like a graduation, like I finally did it,” he said. “I feel much better now that I’m a citizen, that I can vote and take advantage of the freedoms that this country offers me. It’s a slow process, but I managed to hang in there.” 

American citizens on Constitution Day

Double Hatter Anthony Porcellii ’93, ’98 JD — magistrate judge, USDC, Middle District of Florida — recognized Constitution Day during his speech, and emphasized the importance that it carries not just for the United States as a country but for all American citizens — old and new. 

“The Constitution is not just a historical document,” he said. “It’s a living framework that guides our democracy and each of us to uphold its values to ensure the promises are fulfilled for future generations.”

For medical assistant Lavinia Forbes, 26, a native of Jamaica who resides in Sandford, the ceremony was a heartfelt moment. 

“I’ve waited seven years for this,” she said to The Daytona Beach News-Journal. “I’m so grateful, so thankful to be an American citizen.”

After a loud round of applause, cheers of excitement and joyful laughter, the newly sworn in American citizens placed their right hand on their chest and enthusiastically recited the words of The Pledge of Allegiance, which echoed inside the walls of Lee Chapel. 

“It is an honor for Stetson to host these new citizens and their loved ones on one of the most memorable days of their lives,” said Kevin Winchell, Director of Community Engagement. “We were heartened to welcome 30 new citizens and more than 150 guests for this special occasion, and for our students to understand what citizenship means for those who have worked for years to attain it.” 

National Voter Registration Day

To commemorate National Voter Registration Day, Stetson Votes partnered with People Power for Florida — a local nonpartisan voter registration group — and tabled outside of Elizabeth Hall. After the Citizenship and Naturalization Ceremony, 58 people registered to vote.

– Andrea Mujica