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������Ƶ conferred degrees and celebrated graduates and undergraduates from The Women’s College and the university at three commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 3, and Saturday, May 4. Light rain fell at the beginning of Friday’s ceremony and the forecast of additional inclement weather moved Saturday’s events indoors, but the celebratory spirits of graduates and their families weren’t dampened.

More than 330 students completed their studies during the spring semester; 208 completed graduate coursework and 47 completed their undergraduate studies. Additionally, 82 graduates earned degrees from The Women’s College.

“Graduates, the successful completion of your degree leads you to the next chapter in an extraordinary life of personal and professional fulfillment. Both the pursuit of knowledge and character, woven together throughout your lives as they have been while here at ������Ƶ, will serve you well,” ������Ƶ President David L. Barnett, Ph.D., said. “Your commitment to the ������Ƶ Ideal – knowledge, integrity, and service – sets you apart. Your experiences at ������Ƶ have changed you forever. Our hope for you is they have equipped you to change the world.”

This was the 145th commencement in the history of ������Ƶ. The first graduating class was just five graduates.

“Today marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance,” Alumni Director Emily Reid said. “I’ve had the distinct pleasure of getting to know some of you, hearing your stories, and witnessing the transformative power of education. Over my time with the alumni office, I’ve come to understand the unique spirit that defines ������Ƶ — a spirit characterized by resilience, innovation, and a deep sense of community.”

In addition to celebrating 145 years during the 2023-24 school year, ������Ƶ also welcomed Barnett as the 11th president.

The university also started a new degree in risk management and insurance, announced a post-certification for family nurse practitioners, celebrated the competition cheer team’s first national championship title, and unveiled the Ernest Ledford Grindle Athletics Department.

All three commencement ceremonies were live streamed. The Women’s College ceremony, the master’s ceremony, and the undergraduate and doctoral ceremonies can be viewed on the .

Photos by AJ Reynolds for ������Ƶ