SUU ‘thrilled to recognize’ 3,000 graduates, its largest class ever, at 125th commencement

Written by Jeff Richards
April 26, 2024

CEDAR CITY — Southern Utah University celebrated the largest-ever “strong and resilient” graduating class Thursday evening during its 125th annual commencement.

Southern Utah University President Mindy Benson welcomes graduates and other attendees to the university’s 125th commencement, Cedar City, Utah, April 25, 2024 | Photo courtesy of SUU, St. George News / Cedar City News

“We are thrilled tonight to recognize 3,047 candidates for graduation, with 888 master’s degrees 1,876 bachelor’s degrees, 290 associate degrees and 107 certificates,” said SUU President Mindy Benson as she welcomed those in attendance at the America First Event Center.

Benson also noted that the graduates hail from 33 different countries and 48 U.S. states, as well as 28 of Utah’s 29 counties.

Also of note, the graduates range in age from 17 to 71, with the average age being 27, she said.

During her opening remarks, Benson explained the reason for having the commencement ceremony in the evening this year.

“The bell tower tradition was always meant to happen as the sun sets on your time at SUU,” Benson said, referring to the procession that starts at the carillon on the east side of campus and makes its way to the commencement venue.

Southern Utah University graduates and staff take part in the processional march across campus prior to the 125th commencement, Cedar City, Utah, April 25, 2024 | Photo by Jeff Richards, St. George News / Cedar City News

“Tonight with our first evening ceremony, this is the first time that it has played out as it was meant to be,” she said.

Benson told the students she’d had a different speech prepared prior to a recent emergency response incident that disrupted classes and campus activities.

“The swatting calls of an active shooter happened two weeks ago on our campus,” she said. “After we all went through that challenging day together, then spending time with you the day after, I realized we could all use comments that were a bit lighter. So I went a different direction tonight.”

Added Benson: “I do want to say I am proud of you. You are strong and resilient. Always remember that. Today marks a significant milestone in your lives. As we celebrate your achievements, we reflect on this journey that has led us to this moment. In reflecting, we find a profound message encapsulated in three simple words: live, learn, and leave a legacy.”

Benson reminded the students that SUU’s motto is “Learning Lives Forever.”

“Learning does not stop because you’re receiving your degrees tonight and tomorrow,” she said.

As she concluded her remarks, Benson said:

Today, we celebrate you. We wrap our collective arms around you for one last time and send you out into the world, who will watch your success with great anticipation and cannot wait to see how you change the world. The world needs you and we await your greatness. As you leave the nest of SUU, go, soar and make us proud.

The program’s featured speakers were graduates Holly Biesinger from West Valley City and Nick Stein from Cedar City.

Holly Biesinger speaks during Southern Utah University’s 125th commencement, Cedar City, Utah, April 25, 2024 | Photo by Jeff Richards, St. George News / Cedar City News

Biesinger, who graduated with a double major in art education and history, spoke of the journey of self-discovery.

“It’s about becoming the best version of yourself and contributing positively to the lives of those around you,” she said. “The impact you make as a person is what truly matters. As we leave SUU, above all else, it’s the people we will remember and the experiences that drew us together that we will carry in our hearts.

“Today marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another hill with endless possibilities. As you embark on this journey, remember, it’s not just about what you do, but more importantly, about who you are.”

Stein, who received a bachelor of communication degree, highlighted the university’s motto.

“How exactly are we supposed to learn forever?” he said. “I don’t know about the rest of you guys, but I’m extremely ready to accept my degree and not wake up for classes.”

Stein then quoted the Greek philosopher Plutarch, who said, “The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled.”

“It’s an exciting and deserved feeling to be at the finish line today,” Stein said. “But we should use this feeling to our advantage. SUU has lit the fire but it’s our responsibility to keep it going. If you were sitting here thinking you’re done learning, think again.”

Southern Utah University graduates and staff take part in the processional march across campus prior to the 125th commencement, Cedar City, Utah, April 25, 2024 | Photo by Jeff Richards, St. George News / Cedar City News

Stein said education is about seeking personal growth and developing a certain curiosity about the world.

He concluded by saying, “I hope you will approach whatever awaits you after commencement with a curious mind and let your experience at Southern Utah University be a springboard to further success.”

Also during the program, Jesselie B. Anderson and Gayle L. Pollock were each recognized and awarded honorary doctorate degrees in public service. 

Also recognized was valedictorian Garrett Shaw of Pleasant Grove, who received a bachelor’s degree with a double major in business management and accounting. He plans to begin attending law school at BYU in the fall.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, just before directing the graduates to their mortarboard tassels from one side to the other in unison, SUU Alumni President Caytee Wankier offered some words of encouragement.

“Like our early founders, we are a unified community that can face all odds,” Wankier said. “You are officially written in the history of resilient and hardy T-Birds.”

Musical numbers were provided by SUU Symphony Orchestra and SUU Choirs, with a trio of vocalists Anne Turner, Emily Benson and Madison Hansen, singing the national anthem, accompanied by the orchestra.

SUU’s various colleges staged their own convocation events throughout the day on Friday.

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Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2024, all rights reserved.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jeff Richards, a native of Salt Lake City with family roots in Panguitch, lived in Moab for 20 years before joining St. George News in 2017. Jeff is a longtime journalist and secondary school teacher. He and his wife Penny are the parents of five daughters. They also have three young grandsons. Jeff and his family enjoy swimming, camping, sightseeing, reading, and taking pictures.

Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @stgnews@moabjeff@stgnewssports

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