Penn State Altoona has announced the spring 2022 commencement student marshals. Student marshals are chosen to represent their academic division based on outstanding academic achievement.
ALTOONA, Pa. — Penn State Altoona has announced the student marshals for spring 2025 commencement. Student marshals are chosen to represent their graduating class based on outstanding academic achievement.
At Penn State Altoona, student marshals lead graduating students during the commencement procession. Penn State Altoona will hold its spring 2025 commencement ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 11, in the Arena of the Adler Athletic Complex.
Below are testimonials from each of the four student marshals:
Travis Bryce Saylor
Bachelor of Arts in English and Psychology
“Looking back to when I enrolled at Penn State Altoona, it would have been impossible to predict the path leading me to this moment now. At that point, I had a rough idea of the next four years and perhaps a slightly rougher plan for after that. Now, I don’t think any high schooler’s life plan lasts more than two semesters into college.
“I will be forever grateful that my ideas for the future fell apart at Penn State Altoona. Here, I have met the most incredible people — both students and faculty — whose passions and support have led me to expand my horizons more than I had ever anticipated. I joined clubs, led research and learned so much more than I knew there was to learn. I wouldn’t have had this same experience at any other school, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
“As Student Marshal for the Division of the Arts and Humanities, it is my honor and privilege to tell you that our futures as graduates are uncertain and undetermined, but I know that they are bright. Congratulations!”
Makenna Grace Port
Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Early Childhood Education
“First, I want to thank Penn State Altoona. I will forever have gratitude for the experience I’ve had here.
“My time at Penn State Altoona was beyond what I ever could have imagined four years ago. I am incredibly fortunate to have shared this journey with my roommates, teammates, education cohort, coaches, and professors. Each person — whether in a small moment or a significant one — has played a role in shaping who I am today. The unwavering support, kindness, and care I’ve received from others have inspired me to embody those same qualities as I move forward.
“As this chapter of my life draws to a close, I find myself wishing it could remain open just a little longer. Yet, I carry with me countless memories that will forever remain in my heart. As I transition from one classroom to the next, from student to teacher, I am filled with excitement for what lies ahead. To my fellow graduates, congratulations, and I wish you all the very best in the next steps of your journey!
Joseph P. Levri
Bachelor of Science in Biology
“It is an honor to be nominated as the Student Marshal of the Division of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. Reflecting on my time at Penn State Altoona, I realize how much it has helped me grow both academically and personally. Initially, I aimed to pursue a medical career but had little experience or direction. Over the past four years, I’ve been fortunate to receive guidance from dedicated instructors and peers, helping me navigate the path to graduate school, even when I felt uncertain.
“I am deeply grateful to my instructors, especially Dr. Bell and Professor Kananen, who went above and beyond to expand my knowledge and invest time in my success. Their support, along with the unwavering encouragement of my family, has been invaluable. My family has been there for me long before college, providing consistent support and reminding me that growth often comes with stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. Thanks to their support, I feel ready to embrace the next phase of my journey with confidence.”
Casey Hess
Bachelor of Science in Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology
“I expected college to consist of uneventful classes and tedious coursework. Today, I proudly say that my experience at Penn State Altoona was not just unexpected, but unexpectedly diverse, eventful and rewarding.
“I’d like to acknowledge my family — especially my mother and father — who countlessly sacrificed their time and resources to provide clear avenues to success. To my tennis coaches and teammates, our interactions on and off the court made an intense academic demand enjoyable. To my fellow campus ministry members, your support helped me approach each day with confidence and joy.
“Lastly, I owe my technical skills to Dr. Grant Risha and Dr. Jeffrey Moore, who balanced demand, encouragement, and autonomy to optimize my learning. I must also recognize Mr. Steven Betza for his unmatched personal and professional guidance. My EMET peers deserve special recognition, as they never failed to entertain each other before, after, and (best of all) during class.
“I conclude my undergraduate experience with the highest regard for Penn State Altoona and its student and faculty network. It is with tremendous gratification that I accept the honor of being named the 2025 Student Marshal for the Division of Business, Engineering, and Information Sciences and Technology.”
