Houston-Tillotson University GraduatesReceive Diplomas in Commencement Ceremony
Ona sunny day in May, Houston-Tillotson University held itscommencement ceremony to honor the hard work and determination of itsgraduates. Hundreds of students, family members, faculty, and staffgathered at the historic Austin campus to celebrate theaccomplishments of the Class of 2021.
Theceremony began with a processional of faculty members, wearingacademic regalia that represented their respective fields of study.They were followed by the graduates, who strode in two-by-two,donning black caps and gowns with gold trim. As they took theirseats, the audience erupted in cheers and applause, expressing theirpride and joy for the soon-to-be graduates.
Dr.Colette Pierce Burnette, the president of Houston-TillotsonUniversity, welcomed the attendees, highlighted the achievements ofthe graduates, and expressed her optimism for their future success.She reminded students of the university's mission and values,encouraging them to use the knowledge they have gained to make apositive impact on their communities.
Thekeynote speaker for the ceremony was Dr. Mae Jemison, a physician,engineer, astronaut, and the first African American woman to travelto space. She shared her personal and professional journey,emphasizing the importance of education, passion, and perseverance inachieving one's goals. Her words resonated deeply with the graduates,who found inspiration in her story of overcoming obstacles andchasing their dreams.
Afterthe keynote speech, the ceremony proceeded to the conferring ofdegrees. The graduates were called by name and invited to receivetheir diplomas from Dr. Burnette and other university leaders. Eachgraduate's moment on stage was met with cheers, applause, andsometimes tears, as family members and friends celebrated their lovedones' achievements.
Asthe ceremony drew to a close, the graduates moved their tassels fromthe right to the left side of their caps, symbolizing the completionof their studies and the beginning of their new lives. They stood,clapping and embracing each other, taking photos and capturingmemories that would last a lifetime.
TheHouston-Tillotson University commencement ceremony was a joyousoccasion, celebrating the success of the Class of 2021 and honoringthe university's commitment to academic excellence, social justice,and community service. The graduates left with their diplomas inhand, ready to take on the world and make a difference. They willalways carry with them the knowledge, skills, and values theyacquired during their time at Houston-Tillotson University.Congratulations, Class of 2021!