AU holds Spring 2021 Commencement at Evans Town Center Park's pavilion
Staff report
More than 1,200 students graduated from Augusta University on Thursday, May 13, in Commencement sessions held at the Lady A Pavilion in Evans Town Center Park.
The student speakers include Tammy Eboigbe, an education major, and Dorothy Elangwe, who majored in math and science.
“Everyone of us graduating today has a story,” Elangwe said, “and has traveled successfully through our unique and remarkable journey, resulting in today meaning something different to us all. For some, it is a day solely for reflection, reflection on the time we shared here at Augusta University. We are reflecting on the growth and self-discovery we have all encountered.”
Eboige focused on the challenges of her undergraduate years, which included coping with the coronavirus pandemic.
“We’ve adapted to the uncertainty of it all,” she said. “Discomfort is a part of growth because without it yields stagnation. Holding positions in clubs, being the voice of others, taking that step to make friends and even moving away from your family were outside our comfort zones.”
It was a beautiful spring day with temperatures in the 60s in the morning and the 70s in the afternoon after a low front had brought rain and wind gusts Wednesday.
Provost Neil MacKinnon presided and President Brooks Keel officially gave out the diplomas for doctoral, master’s and bachelor’s degrees.
“This is a day filled with happiness, pride and in some cases relief,” MacKinnon told the graduates in the afternoon session. “We are honored to celebrate it with you.”
Keel praised the faculty before giving out the diplomas.
“I’d like to acknowledge the faculty of Augusta University, who are the heart and soul of the university, especially this university,” Keel said.
Two ROTC students were commissioned, 2nd Lt. Emmanuel Anderson, who majored in education, and 2nd Lt. Chase Inglett, who majored in science and math.
The national anthem was sung by Daniel Mata (Allied Health) in the morning session and Courtney Bartlett (music) in the afternoon.
Last spring, graduation was held online. In December, it was held at James Brown Arena with a restricted audience and social distancing. The chairs at Evans Town Center Park on Thursday were spaced to maintain the university’s social-distancing guidelines.
