McKinley, R-W.Va., was the speaker for the ceremony Saturday at the college activities center.

This year's spring graduating class at WVU-P includes 339 candidates receiving degrees and certificates, said college spokesman Katie Wootton. Approximately 132 students participated in the ceremony led by WVU-P President Dr. Fletcher Lamkin, who took over at the college in January.

McKinley has been serving as Congressman for the First District in West Virginia since 2010. Speaking to the graduates on Saturday, McKinley said he still draws inspiration from a sermon he heard 25 years ago from the Rev. James Forbes of Riverside Church in New York City, which he gave during a visit to Wheeling.

"We all have hopes, dreams, goals, aspirations. They define us. They are like songs within us. They set forth a pathway for our journey through life," McKinley said.

However, too often people are reluctant to sing their songs because of a lack of self-esteem or a fear of rejection.

"As Rev. Forbes poetically asked, 'What keeps my song from being sung? Past hurts, deep fears, a timid tongue?'"

McKinley said life is about taking another chance and getting up again each time there is a fall.

"Here in West Virginia, we need risk-takers. We need aspirational young people - willing to take risks and deal with adversity," McKinley said.

"If you keep singing - sharing your vision, your goals and your ideals - you too may inspire those around you," he said.

In addition to recognizing the graduating seniors, Saturday's ceremony also recognized several others associated with WVU-P, Wootton said.

Several faculty were named emeriti, including: Al Edwards, Professor of Mathematics Emeritus following 40 years of service; Denise McClung, Professor of Psychology Emeritus following 21 years of service; Phil McClung, Professor of Psychology Emeritus following 39 years of service; Deborah Murphy, Professor of Nursing Emeritus following 22 years of service; and Kathy Mutz, Professor of Psychology Emeritus following 15 years of service.

An honorary degree was awarded posthumously to Randy Oldaker, who was recognized for his years of work as a faculty member at WVU-P. He served on numerous college committees including his active service on the Internationalization Committee and the Social Justice Committee. He also served as the faculty advisor for the WVU-Parkersburg Multicultural Awareness Club and Chi Alpha, among other activities.

The college also presented the Alumnus of the Year award to Cam Matheny, a 2002 WVU-P graduate, who is president of the accounting firm Matheny and Co. AC in Ripley.

The Bernard P. McDonough Faculty Member of the Year Award was presented Saturday to Dr. Torie Jackson, who serves as a full-time assistant professor, as advisor and editor for several student publications and in other ways at the college, including as Faculty Senate Chair.