Some 1,350 students across 52 fields of study received degrees at Tennessee Tech’s Spring Commencement Ceremonies Friday.
The graduating class included students from 80 counties throughout the state, 24 states, and 17 countries. Graduate degrees were awarded to students from 32 different fields of study. Graduates gathered in the Hooper Eblen Center with birthdays ranging from 1962 through 2005. Tennessee Tech President Phil Oldham opened the ceremony by congratulating candidates and thanking them for their contributions to the Tennessee Tech community.
“Candidates, you are just a few short minutes away from being alumni of this university,” Oldham said. “We hope you’ll come back to see us, and we’re confident that when you do, you’ll be just as comfortable here as you do today. That sense of community does not go away. It get’s stronger with time.”
Students heard prerecorded remarks from alumni including Addison Dorris, a senior who was recently awarded the Derryberry Award, the university’s highest student honor. They also heard from Amelia Greer, a 2023 Communications graduate who serves as the morning anchor at WDEF-TV in Chattanooga. Oldham recognized the hard work from Tech faculty that has led the graduates to where they are today.
“Tennessee Tech faculty members are distinguished educators who contribute to an environment in which our students flourish,” Oldham said. “You’ve learned from professors who has achieved national and international recognition in their respective fields. Just as importantly, probably more importantly, actually, from professors who truly care and work hard to ensure that you leave here with all the skills and knowledge that you need to be successful.”
Reverend W. Antoni Sinkfield, Associate Dean for Community Life at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington D.C, a marking major from Tennessee Tech addressed students as well. Sinkfield recently won Tennessee Tech’s Alumnus Award, the university’s highest alumni honor.
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