793 graduates recognized at spring commencement

At the College of Nursing and Health Sciences graduation, Erica Jones takes a family photo with her son who is there to celebrate her hard-earned diploma. Photo by Jessica Sibbing.

Hard work finally paid off for 793 degree candidates recognized during the University's spring commencement ceremonies, held May 8 and 9 in the UT Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center.

The University held separate ceremonies for the various colleges to accommodate overflow crowds of well-wishers.
Plenty of family members and friends arrived to show their support.

"We are very proud of her. She's been very dedicated and she finally made it," said Janelle Weaver of her sister, Erica Jones, who graduated from the University's nursing program.

President Rodney H. Mabry encouraged graduates to use their knowledge to benefit others and certified the degree candidates attending each of the ceremonies.

Graduates displayed excitement of the moment with smiles, hugs and laughter.

"We're so excited. I'm not nervous yet. I just hope we don't trip and fall on stage," Laura Huggins, a nursing major from Palestine, said.

Many soon-to-be graduates seemed especially eager to finally see the fruits of their labor.

Hakeem Kareem moves his tassel over after walking the stage to accept his diploma at the graduation ceremony for the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. Photo by Jessica Sibbing.

"It took me seven years to finally finish, so I'm glad I'm graduating," Melissa Cook said, a nursing major from Dallas.

Faculty members led the graduates to the front of the Cowan Center at the start of the ceremony.

Dr. Macgregor Stephenson offered a message of encouragement to students from the Colleges of Nursing and Health Sciences and Arts and Sciences.
He serves as the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board assistant commissioner for academic affairs and research.

"You all have taken a fantastic step today. This is an outstanding university...but this is but one step you take in your lifelong education," Stevenson said.

U.S. Rep. Louie Gohmert addressed the Colleges of Business and Technology, Education and Psychology and Engineering and Computer Science.

Presentations of degree candidates were made by the deans of each of the University's colleges: Dr. Alisa White, Arts and Sciences; Dr. Harold Doty, Business and Technology; Dr. William Geiger, Education and Psychology; Dr. James Nelson, Engineering and Computer Science; and Dr. Linda Klotz, Nursing and Health Sciences.

Alumni representative Rick Rayford gave alumni association presentations.