ATHENS, Ohio -- Associate Professor of Sociology Mary Beth Krouse drew on her experience as an ovarian cancer survivor to share the importance of fully living in the present moment at Ohio University's graduate commencement today in the Convocation Center.

"How you respond to the past, present and future affects everything from your relationships to the world around you," Krouse said.

Honored as the 2001 Outstanding Graduate Faculty Member, Krouse quoted Albert Einstein and spiritual philosophers who provide insight into the illusion of time. She challenged the graduates to live for the now and to let the boundaries of self and time relax.

"Stop and take it all in. Be fully present to those around you today. Experience it fully; enjoy it deeply. The present is all we have." Krouse said.

More than 800 master's and doctoral degree candidates received degrees. The undergraduate commencement ceremony is Saturday, June 8.

Krouse teaches graduate courses in contemporary sociological theory, feminist theory and the sociology of death and dying. She has helped to develop a teaching internship program for graduate students in sociology, and regularly conducts the internships. Her research has included an in-depth study of the AIDS Memorial Quilt as social movement culture. She has published several articles on topics related to the quilt, feminist pedagogy and women in higher education. Krouse received her doctorate in sociology from Ohio State University.

David Wilhelm, president of Woodland Venture Management and an Ohio University graduate, will address more than 3,500 undergraduates at Ohio University's 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. commencement ceremonies on Saturday, June 8, in the Convocation Center.