VALDOSTA — This past Friday and Saturday, Valdosta State University celebrated its 238th commencement ceremony. 

The events, led by President Dr. Richard Carvajal, brought together graduates, faculty, staff, and families for a memorable milestone in the lives of the Class of 2024. The graduate school commencement occurred at The Complex, and the undergraduate event was held at VSU’s front lawn.

The ceremony on Saturday began with an enthusiastic welcome from Carvajal, who set a celebratory tone. The energy in the air was undeniable as he shared exciting news about the VSU Blazer football team, which secured its spot in the NCAA Division II National Championship earlier in the day. 

Carvajal recognized some key contributors to the university’s success as the ceremony continued. Dr. Andreas Lazare, a professor of mathematics with 34 years at VSU, carried the ceremonial mace. Members of the Platform Party, representing faculty leadership and distinguished students, were also honored for their contributions.

In his address to the graduates, Carvajal reflected on the challenges and triumphs of their academic journey. He acknowledged the resilience of the Class of 2024, who weathered rigorous coursework and the disruptions of two Category 4 hurricanes. 

“Today represents a huge milestone, but you didn’t get here alone,” he reminded the graduates. Faculty, staff, and families were celebrated with standing ovations for their unwavering support.

The ceremony highlighted multiple student accomplishments, such as the President’s Award recipients for achieving the highest GPAs in their respective colleges. Honors graduates and those earning distinctions of cum laude, magna cum laude, and summa cum laude were also acknowledged for their exceptional academic achievements.

The conferral of degrees then proceeded with students walking across the stage to reap the rewards of their hard work at the university. With degrees in hands and proud expressions across the audience, Carvajal took to the stage one last time to signal the graduates to move their tassels.

“Candidates for graduation, by the authority vested in me by Chancellor Purdue and the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, and with the full support of Valdosta State University’s faculty and alumni, I confer upon you these degrees you have fully earned, with all rights and privileges appertaining thereto,” Carvajal exclaimed. “You may now move your tassels from your right to your left to signify your graduation!”

Carvajal announced that the formal portion of the ceremony had concluded and invited the graduates to celebrate their new status with friends and family, basking in fireworks and music.