“To be a CalSouthern graduate in 2021 means you are someone with perseverance and grit, someone who has balanced the many challenges and demands of everyday life on top of earning a degree, and someone who never lost sight of your dreams even as the world faced a global pandemic.”
These inspiring words from CalSouthern President, Glenn R. Roquemore, PhD, were part of an opening speech for CalSouthern’s Annual Commencement Ceremony, which showcased the unique circumstances that made the graduating class of 2021 extra special. Designed to allow CalSouthern’s newest graduates to celebrate in real-time with family, friends, faculty, and staff, the August 6th online ceremony offered many congratulatory messages, acknowledgements, and motivations for the future.
After a heartfelt welcome from Dr. Roquemore, the class of 2021 was treated to special messages from academic support staff, which included learner support specialists, the director of alumni engagement, and the department chair from the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice. Following these remarks, the University introduced keynote speaker, Martha Daniel, from Information Management Resources, Inc. With passion, Ms. Daniel shared wisdom for success from her years of experience as founder and CEO of her company.
“You are the conductor of your dreams, and only you can define your success. Our society tries to dictate the measurement of success and sometimes people get caught up with trying to pattern their life outcomes to metrics and expectations that are not their own. It is important for you to embrace that you and only you can define your success.”
Deans and department chairs from CalSouthern’s six schools then shared their commendations for the class of 2021 and presented their candidates for graduation. Instead of participating in a traditional walk to receive their degrees, graduates were represented by a personalized slide featuring their photo, degree earned, relevant honors, and any personalized messages they provided.
In closing, President Roquemore recognized CalSouthern’s newest degrees. “While you may have been a CalSouthern learner for just a few years, you will be a California Southern University graduate and alumnus for life.”
To all 2021 California Southern University graduates, congratulations and welcome to the CalSouthern alumni family!
To view the 2021 CalSouthern Commencement Ceremony in its entirety, visit: www.calsouthern.edu/commencement or watch below.
Related Posts
