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

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 explained that recognition is rooted in shared humanity. He expanded on the 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.” 

Through the support of mentors, student organizations, and on-campus experiences, Scales said he learned lessons about leadership, community, and service that continue to guide his work today as director of Multicultural Student Services at Bucknell University. 

“It was here at Bloomsburg through these people and these experiences where I built upon the lessons I learned from my family,” said Scales, continuing 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. "So understanding what you need to do to not only transform environments in which you will go into, but also first begin with yourself."

"Again, understanding I know we live in a hyper-individualistic society, but we can't exist in and of ourselves. If you were the type of person who sat in your room a lot during your time here, make sure you expand your universe and get out of your comfort zone ... your obligation to others."

Scales also challenged the graduates to think beyond the moment. 

“Pursue opportunity not simply for personal gain, but for the growth and purpose it can bring," Sclaes said. "Be a motivating force for future generations. 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."

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.