“I See You”: Bloomsburg alum inspires First World graduates with message of community

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BLOOMSBURG - This spring's First World Ceremony celebrated the Class of 2026 with a keynote address that was both personal and pointed, as Marcus Scales '10/12M returned to the campus where his own journey began.

A first-generation college student from Philadelphia and two-time Bloomsburg alumnus, Scales used the occasion to reflect on the doors the university opened for him while encouraging graduates to move forward with purpose, gratitude, and confidence.

Scales opened with energy and sincerity, "I see you," anchoring his remarks in the Zulu concept of Sawabona, which means "I see you" and explains that recognition is rooted in shared humanity. He expanded on that theme by telling graduates, "The reason I see you is because I am you."

Scales credited Bloomsburg with shaping his path, recalling when he arrived on campus nearly 20 years ago, he was "full of nerves and unsure what the next four years would look like."

He said that through the support of mentors, student organizations, and campus experiences, he learned lessons about leadership, community, and service that continue to guide his work today.

"It was here at Bloomsburg through these people and these experiences where I built upon the lessons I learned from my family," said Scales, director of Multicultural Student Services at Bucknell University.

His address continued with what he called the "BLOOM" message, urging students to "believe in yourself" and reminding them to trust the preparation that got them to this point.

"Leadership starts with learning to lead yourself," Scales said. "Pursue opportunity not simply for personal gain, but for the growth and purpose it can bring."

Scales also challenged the graduates to think beyond the moment.

"Be a motivating force for future generations," Scales said. "Run the best race you can and pass the baton. I see you, and I wish you an abundance of success. I look forward to seeing how you bloom."

Scales' remarks gave the event a reflective and affirming tone, turning the First World Ceremony into more than a graduation celebration. It became a reminder that for many students, the path to commencement is also a story of visibility, resilience, and the people who helped them get there.

First World Graduates

The ceremony recognized the Class of 2026, including Jayla Arthur, Xaria "Mickey" Brathwaite, India Cerdan, Irampaye Clarisse, Cora Cotson, Raziya Givens, Wuraola Giwa, Kimberly Madrid, Sarala Martin, Yarinette Mejia, Jade Parker, Kayla Parks, Kyla Parks, Kimaya Providence, Tamia Richard, Saffinatou Sesay, Karina Silva, Torri Singh, Isaiah Smith, Fatima Soriano, Carley Stroup, Olivia Celestine Thomas, Christian Thomas, Yasmin Vasquez, and Randy Zea.

Categories:

• Academics
• Alumni
• Ceremony
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• Event
• Graduates
• Multicultural Affairs
• Student Success
• Students

Tags:

• Alumni
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Leadership