Lamar University awarding 1,039 degrees and certificates at Summer Commencement

Lamar University is excited to host the 2021 Summer Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, August 14 at 10:00am in the Montagne Center. Graduates come from 12 countries, 31 states and 231 cities and towns in Texas. Three thousand three hundred and sixteen degrees and certificates have been awarded so far this year, including the 1,039 being conferred Saturday.

“Commencement is one of the most cherished, pride-filled events all year,” said Dr. Brenda Nichols, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “All of the time, energy and hard work of each student is recognized. It’s seeing the metamorphosis from student to alumni that inspires me each and every day.”

Graduates, family and friends will celebrate this momentous occasion with Lamar University’s new president, Dr. Jaime Taylor.

“What’s nice about commencement is that it’s the first time you get to meet a lot of the parents. Of course, the parents are very proud, and they should be.” Said Taylor. “You get to see that fun interaction between the student who is now an adult, going off on their own, and their parents who are proud of them and their taking pictures. It’s just so exciting to be around a commencement ceremony.”

Obtaining a four-year college degree is an achievement earned by approximately one third of Americans. For Donna Starnes, this honor felt out of reach for some time. “I returned to college at 62 years old and found Lamar University with the help of a friend. Dilley I.S.D., where I am employed has a "grow our own program" and gave me $10,000 to finish my degree. I had the money and I had the motivation, but never did I dream that this average student who gave up on college because of "College Algebra" would be capable of earning such good grades. Every instructor was encouraging, helpful and very knowledgeable of their subject matter which made it such a positive experience for me.”

For Amanda Doucette-Poullard, it was the experience with online courses propelling her through the program. “The most unique experience is meeting new people through the online program. I’ve met so many wonderful people throughout the country. It’s amazing to speak with someone in a different region and able to compare our everyday norms. I am looking forward to continuing my career at Provost and Umphrey Law Firm and utilizing everything I have ever learned at LU.”

Graduates now join the ranks of more than 99,000 alumni living and working in every field imaginable in 67 different countries, every state in the U.S. and every county in Texas. Visit www.lamar.edu/alumni to learn more about how to stay connected and involved with Lamar University.