Tennessee Tech University recognized more than 1,600 graduates on May 8 during its largest spring commencement in university history, with ceremonies held at the Hooper Eblen Center.
The event marked a significant milestone for the university as it celebrated students from 85 Tennessee counties, 32 states, and 22 countries. The graduating class included individuals born between 1957 and 2006.
Undergraduate degrees were awarded across 53 fields of study and graduate degrees in another 35 fields. Some students expected to complete their studies in August also participated in the ceremonies. “You are set to get a great return on your investment because you have what the world wants and desperately needs: talent and tenacity,” said Tech President Phil Oldham in remarks to graduates. “You have clearly demonstrated those high-value characteristics that are embodied within the degree you receive today.” The day was especially meaningful for Oldham as his daughter Audrey graduated cum laude during the morning ceremony from Tech’s School of Human Ecology.
Graduates heard video messages from three speakers: Bobby Wilder, head coach of Tech’s Golden Eagle football team; Hannah-Grace Boswell, a student leader earning a degree in molecular and cellular biology; and Larry Stone, president and general manager of Stonecom Radio. Stone told graduates to focus on listening to others while looking ahead: “the rearview mirror is half the size of the windshield in front of you.” He added, “You’ve got so much excitement coming in your life… But in the end, you’re going to be successful — and that starts with this education that you’ve received here at Tennessee Tech.”
Wilder addressed students from outside the soon-to-be-completed football stadium alongside his rescue dog Khaleesi. He encouraged them to “make your ambition your dream” and said: “Everything you want in life is on the other side of hard… Eventually you will get to what you want to have accomplished in life.”
Video recordings for both morning and afternoon ceremonies are available online for those who wish to revisit or view highlights. Tennessee Tech is ranked as Tennessee’s top public university by Money.com and listed as a “Best National University” by U.S. News & World Report.
