Jonesboro, AR – (Contributed) – Arkansas State University welcomed a new class of alumni on Saturday during the Fall Commencement exercises, as 2,335 degrees were conferred by provost and executive vice chancellor, Dr. Calvin White, Jr., and Dr. William McLean, senior vice provost for academic affairs.
The degrees were awarded during 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. ceremonies which took place at First National Bank Arena on the campus of A-State.
“Earning your degree is a major achievement and something you will have for your lifetime. A degree can never be taken from you. Your sacrifices were not made in isolation — your families and friends have been important partners in your educational success,” said White.
The first ceremony featured students from the College of Agriculture, Neil Griffin College of Business, College of Nursing and Health Professions, and University College.
Graduates who walked during the second ceremony were from the Beck College of Sciences and Mathematics, College of Education and Behavioral Science, College of Engineering and Computer Science, and College of Liberal Arts and Communication.
Sydney Buchheit, a senior graduating magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary studies from Cape Girardeau, Mo., served as student speaker for the morning ceremony.
“Connection matters. In a world that loves to focus on what separates us, college has shown us just how much we truly have in common. Every person sitting here has felt fear, pressure, hope, relief, joy and growth. We are bonded not just by a graduating class, but by the human experiences that shaped us,” said Buchheit.
Jenna Hauge, a senior graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from Jonesboro, was the student speaker for the afternoon ceremony.
“As we leave this celebration, let us carry the belief that we are capable, prepared and worthy of the dreams we’ve worked so hard for. Our time at A-State has shaped us, challenged us, and helped us grow in ways we’ll carry with us forever,” said Hauge.
For those who missed the ceremonies or could not attend in person, one can watch a recording of the livestream online.
