Afternoon Ceremony | 1 p.m.
COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
(Nursing Program)
Dr. Jay Coons, Introduction of Graduates
Dr. Dennis Longmire, Mace Bearer
THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021
Morning Ceremony | 9 a.m.
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
(Accounting, BBA and Graduate Programs)
COLLEGE OF ARTS & MEDIA
Dr. Jan Morris, Introduction of Graduates
Dr. Henry Howey, Mace Bearer
Evening Ceremony | 5 p.m.
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
Dr. G. Kevin Randall, Introduction of Graduates
Dr. Rosanne Keathley, Mace Bearer
Afternoon Ceremony | 1 p.m.
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
(Undergraduate Programs)
Dr. Carrie Belsito, Introduction of Graduates
Dr. Gerald Kohers, Mace Bearer
PROCESSIONAL
The Presidential Party enters.
Evening Ceremony | 5 p.m.
COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES
POMP & CIRCUMSTANCE [Edward Elgar]
Pre-recorded by Sam Houston State University Bands
(Undergraduate Programs)
POSTING OF THE COLORS
SHSU ROTC Color Guard
Dr. Glen Sanford, Introduction of Graduates
Dr. Rob Adams, Mace Bearer
THE STAR-SPANGLED BANNER
[Text: Francis Scott Key; Music: John Stafford Smith] Dr. Wesley Lawrence, Song Leader Dr. Tony Boutte, Song Leader
FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2021
Morning Ceremony | 9 a.m.
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
(Graduate Programs)
COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES
WELCOME AND PLATFORM INTRODUCTIONS
- Dr. Christopher Maynard,
- (Graduate Programs)
Dr. William Edgington, Introduction of Graduates
Dr. Rob Adams, Mace Bearer
Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS
Dr. Alisa White,
President, Sam Houston State University
Afternoon Ceremony | 1 p.m.
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE & ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY
(All programs except UG Biological Science)
Dr. Jessica Bedore, Introduction of Graduates
Dr. David Burris, Mace Bearer
CONFERRING OF DEGREES
Dr. Alisa White,
President, Sam Houston State University
Evening Ceremony | 5 p.m.
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
REMARKS TO THE GRADUATES
Scott McCarley,
(Undergraduate Programs)
President, Alumni Board of Directors
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE & ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY
(Undergraduate Biological Science Programs)
Dr. William Edgington, Introduction of Graduates
Dr. David Burris, Mace Bearer
ALMA MATER
[Allen R. Hightower III/Anonymous] Dr. Wesley Lawrence, Song Leader Dr. Tony Boutte, Song Leader
RECESSIONAL
SATURDAY, MAY 15, 2021
Morning Ceremony | 9 a.m.
COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Dr. Sarah Kerrigan, Introduction of Graduates
Dr. Dennis Longmire, Mace Bearer
RONDEAU [Jean-Joseph Mouret] Pre-recorded by Sam Houston State University Bands
Audience seated for Processional and Recessional. As a courtesy, please refrain from using noise makers during the graduation ceremony. For the safety of our university community, you are required to wear a face covering and practice social distancing at all times during Commencement.
- SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
- SPRING 2021
1
Dear Graduate,
CENTRAL ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS
Congratulations on behalf of the Sam Houston State University faculty, staff, and administration. You are now alumni, and we are delighted you will represent your University in your careers of choice and in your communities. No doubt you have had many opportunities here, and I am looking forward to seeing how you will use what you learned and experienced to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.
MESSAGE FROM THE
PRESIDENT
Dr. Alisa White | President
Christopher Maynard, PhD | Interim Provost and Vice President for
Academic Affairs
Carlos Hernandez, EdD, CPA | Vice President for Finance and Operations Frank R. Holmes, BA | Vice President for University Advancement Heather V. Thielemann, EdD | Vice President for Enrollment Management Frank E. Parker, MA | Vice President for Student Affairs
Our University motto is emblazoned on a wall in The Yard (formerly Bearkat Plaza), but more importantly, it is visible in how you, the Bearkats we are recognizing today, live your lives. Our motto, “The measure of a Life is its Service,” provides a meaningful standard by which we can evaluate ourselves as people of purpose who provide value to others. You put the motto in action when you volunteered your time and energy on and off campus in support of organizations and causes you value. You demonstrated your commitment to others when you encouraged your colleagues, friends, and family members during the strange and uncertain times of 2020 and 2021. Thank you for helping us have a successful academic year. You will always have opportunities to add value by engaging in your communities, and I am confident you will do so in ways that will make the world a better place and bring pride to your alma mater.
Mark C. Adams, MS | Vice President for Information Technology
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS
Christopher Maynard, PhD | Interim Provost and Vice President for
Academic Affairs
Anne Gaillard, PhD | Interim Vice Provost
Ronald E. Shields, PhD | Dean, College of Arts and Media Mitchell J. Muehsam, PhD | Dean, College of Business Administration Phillip M. Lyons Jr., PhD | Dean, College of Criminal Justice
Stacey L. Edmonson, EdD | Dean, College of Education
Many important people supported you on your educational journey. Your family members, friends, mentors, faculty and staff are applauding for you as you reach this milestone, and I celebrate you and your achievements with them.
Rodney C. Runyan, PhD | Dean, College of Health Sciences Chien-pin Li, PhD | Dean, College of Humanities and Social Sciences Charles Henley, DO | Dean, College of Osteopathic Medicine John B. Pascarella, PhD | Dean, College of Science and Engineering Technology
Kenneth E. Hendrickson III, PhD | Dean, The Graduate School
Sincerely, Dr. Alisa White
THE TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM BOARD OF REGENTS
SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY ALMA MATER
Brian McCall, Chancellor | Austin Charlie Amato, Chairman | San Antonio Duke Austin, First Vice Chairman | Houston Garry Crain, Second Vice Chairman | The Hills Dionicio (Don) Flores | El Paso
Hail to Sam Houston, School we love best, Mighty in battle, True to the test.
Hail, Alma Mater Hats off to you, Ever you’ll find us Loyal and true; Firm and undaunted, Ever we’ll be,
Bearkats so loyal, Ever we’ll be. Orange and white will lead Us to victory!
Here’s to the school we love Here’s a toast to thee.
Nicki Harle | Baird David Montagne | Beaumont
First verse sung at August 9, 2003 commencement by composer Allen R. Hightower III. Second verse, Anonymous.
Dr. Veronica Muzquiz Edwards | San Antonio William F. Scott | Nederland Alan L. Tinsley | Madisonville Amanda Lee, Student Regent | Huntsville
- SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
- SPRING 2021
- SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
- SPRING 2021
- 2
- 3
BACCALAUREATE GRADUATION WITH SPECIAL RECOGNITION
HONOR
Numerals Denote Academic Honors as of the 12th Class Day of Spring 2021 1 = Cum Laude 4 = with Honors/Honors College 2 = Magna Cum Laude 5 = with Highest Honors/Honors College
To reflect their achievement, graduates who have earned undergraduate academic excellence receive a gold cord at graduation plus an appropriate notation on their academic transcript. The gold cord indicates one of the following academic achievements: Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Cum Laude, With Academic Distinction, Alpha Chi, and Honors Program. grade point average on all college-level course work.
3 = Summa Cum Laude 6 = with Academic Distinction in an Academic Discipline
GRADUATES
Participation in the Honors College is based on a competitive selection process and provides outstanding academic opportunities and distinct undergraduate college experiences. Upon successful completion of the requirements of the Honors College—24 semester hours of Honors courses and two special seminars—the student’s
- Kennedy Lynne Adams1
- Kayla M. Campbell2
- Dajone’ Tiyana Tamia Durham1
Jessica Leann Early1
Allura Jude Guerra1,4 Jacinda Adora Gutierrez4 Kaylea Ann Haas1
- Dhiraj Adhikari1
- Victoria Anne Campbell1
Samantha Angelika Campos1,4 Shivangi Simona Cancean2 Brielle Martine Canduci2 Ronni Alyse Cantrell1,4 LaTaia Precious Carrington1 Kristen Hope Castellano2 Bonnie Jean Castellese2 Michelle Castillo 3
Alejandra Gabriela Aguilar Caceres1 Adia Marie Alford2
Lillian Louise Easter3 Mallory Michelle Eaton 3 Brianna Isabella Ecolango2,4 Oscar Edo-Terradas3 Derius Devon Ellis1
Jamison Patrick Hamilton1 Monica Zeitler Hardwick2 Rachael Brennan Hargraves2 Madison Brooke Harrell1 Taylor Dawn Harrell1 Jacob Todd Harris2 Breana L. Harris3
Abigail Nicole Almaraz2 Cyndia Alvarado1 Milena Gissel Alvarez2 Julissa Arianna Alvarez1,4 Katelyn Kendall Amy 1 Madison Hale Anderton2 Cinthya Angeles-Lopez2 Taylor Brooke Applehans1,4 Pamela Arevalo2
Makinsie Hope Ellis1 Lenora Engebretson2 Kisha Donna Epps2
academic transcript will indicate graduation “With Honors” and the student may wear an Honors medallion with academic regalia. To be designated as having graduated “With Highest Honors,” the student must also successfully complete a special senior project involving original research and/or an effort of creative expression.
Jessica Savannah Castillo4 Ines A. Cauquil4
Valeria Sofia Escobedo3 Glory Clodette Fairchild2 Hayden Cooper Fanguy3 Katlyn Makayla Farley2 Corinne Madison Federspiel1,4 Gregg Antonio Findlay1 Keisha Nichole Finto3 Sheridan Elise Fisher1 Hyla R. Forder2
Kiersten Raye Harris3 Sandi Marcella Harris2 Avery Elizabeth Hawkins2,4 Aliyah Nicole Hawkins2 Aubrey Lauren Heller2 Kelsea Nicole Henderson2 Megan Brooke Henderson2 Millicent Anastasia Hendrix1,5 Brianna Kayla Henry2 Daniela N. Hernandez3 Paige O’Neil Herrington2 Helen Elizabeth Hill 2,4 Cristian Autumn Hill2,4 Carly Kathrine Hinds3 David Ray Hogue3
Degrees conferred Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Summa Cum Laude reflect an outstanding grade point average with a minimum of 32 semester hours earned in residence (resident classroom instruction). The distinction and corresponding grade point averages are: Cum Laude 3.50 - 3.66; Magna Cum Laude 3.67 - 3.85; Summa Cum Laude 3.86 - 4.00.
Gabriela Marie Cedillo1 Jackson Cole Chamblee2 Karina Chapa1
Bricely Ascencio Reynoso1 Borja Asensi Flores1 Cailee Niccole Auck2,4 Natalie Nicole Auld1 Regina Avalos2
Isabella Renae Chavez3 Samantha Miranda Chavez2 Tristin W. Chudej3
- Oscar Uriel Avila2
- Alyson Paige Clarabut2
Kasandra Marie Clardy1 Emmy Jean Clark1
- Monica M. Ayala1
- Tiffani Daniels Fortune2
Brandon Keith Foster3 Isabelle Claire Annette Frakey3 Daniel Mark Frazier2
NOTE: Semester credit hours earned in correspondence courses are not considered “resident classroom instruction” hours and are not used in determining the minimum semester credit hour requirement for academic honors: Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude, Dean’s List, and President’s Honor Roll. However, the semester credit hours and grade points earned for correspondence courses are included in the calculation of the overall grade point average.
Cecelia Rhiannon Clara Bailey3 Whitney Eileen Baker3 Neida Banuelos1
Samantha Diane Clem2,4 Kayla Nicole Clement3,4
- Bree Anne Cloud2
- Samantha Jeninne Barajas1
Karen Angelica Barajas1,4 Madison Lynae Barbosa2 Hope Cheyanne Barnett1 Summer Rayne Basham1 Anna Renee Bauer3
Michael Luke Freeman1 Skyla Rae Fuller2
The Department Academic Distinction Program is an individualized learning experience that provides qualified students with a comprehensive introduction to meaningful research under the guidance of a designated faculty advisor.
Kyle Garland Cockerham2 Sarah Ashley Coleman2 Matthew Mark Collier3 Hailey Noel Collinsworth2 Fernando Josue Comayagua Lara1 Ariana C. Contreras2 Justin Alan Cooperman1 Collin Wayne Corliss1 Kaitlin Mckenzie Cortez2 Colton Dale Cowser2 Kimber Cox1
- Katia Funes3
- Aurelia Marie Holifield3
- Olivia Holland1
- Haley Christine Funk2
Kyle Franklin Gaar-Humphreys2 Alyssia Marie Gabbard2 Taylor Renae Gagne2,4 Justin Wayne Gallander1 Meghan Kathleen Galliger2 Dustin Michael Gaona1 Julia Rose Garcia2,4
Alyssa Marie Holzknecht3 Alyssa Danielle Horne2 Haley Elizabeth Horrell2 Kyla Joyce Howard2 Dorothea Brigid Hudson3,4 William Bland Hughes2 Lillian Ashley Hurta2 Diana Iracheta3
Ashtyn M. Beal1 Jenniffer N. Beard1
Alpha Chi, a national honor society organized to recognize and promote scholastic excellence, is open to all university seniors who accepted membership and have achieved a 3.6 or higher
Amy L. Bejarano1 Kathryn Lynn Belanger2 Janieceal Lockett Bell1
- Marissa Belmares3
- Margaret Danielle Gardner1
- Keely M. Garner1
- Jacob Tyler Berlin1
- Lauren Ashley Cravy2,4
Brittani Nicole Crocker2 Angelica Cruz1
Syasya Ismail1,4
Emma Dane Berthelsen3,4 Matthew Thomas Biasucci1 Sarah Ann Bigham3,4 Cierra Nicole Birmingham2 Caleb Ryan Blackwell2 Megan Lynn Blake1
Valeria Alejandra Garza3,4 Cesar Ivan Garza Sanchez2 Ruben Alexis Garzoria1,4 Haylee Thanh Giang1 James Russell Gifford1 Fizza Sulaiman Gilani1,4 Suzannah Jordan Gilbert1 Abagayle Kay Gillaspy1 Cesar Gomez1
Jamie Fay Jackson1 Raven Starr Jacob2
Keila Judith Cruz Herrera1 Vivian Dang2
Allan Jacob 3 Tanner James Janak1 Jacqueline Jimenez1 Kayleigh Morgan Johns2 Zahna A. Johnson2
VETERANS AND MILITARY MEMBERS
Aaron Joseph Daniels2 Danielle Brooks Darrow2 Heather Marie Davis2 Jessica Lynn De Guzman1 Deanna Leigh Degeyter1 Stephanie Nicole Del Bosque1 Maria Vanessa Del Valle4 Dana Dominique Deleon1 Kayla A. Deleon1
Leslie Ann Blanco2
Sam Houston State University is proud to recognize graduating Veterans and military members with a specially designed veterans stole. The orange stole features camouflage tips bearing the SH logo on the right and the American flag with
Veteran designation on the left. On behalf of the entire Sam
Savannah Diane Boettcher1 Eric Scott Bohnert3
Chelsea Renae Johnson1 Timothy Matthew Johnson2 Sydney Nicole Johnson2 Paris Jayde Jorden2 Abigail Lee Joyce2
Houston State University community, President Alisa White and the SHSU Administrative Officers extend their deepest gratitude and congratulations to these distinguished graduates.
Amanda Lisette Bolling2 Kenneth Alexander Bounds3 Erica Simone Boutte2 Ellie Sophia Bragg3,4 Hannah Kathryn Breazeale2 Molly Elizabeth Breedlove1 Parker M. Bretz2
Leslie Natasha Gomez1 Sidney M. Gomez Torres3 Valerie Williams Gonzales2
- Jimena Gonzalez3
- Prabhat Kumar K C2
Lucy Alayna Kaltwasser2 Kyler David Kelley1
- Rhyan J. Denton2
- Yaqueline Gonzalez1
Alexandra Kathryn Diaz2 Uchechi Monica Dike2 Cheyenne C. Dolch3
Gabriel E. Gonzalez1
- Itzel Gonzalez2
- Akiura Sun Kelly2,4
Ashima Rachel Brown1 Cassaundra Nicole Brown1 Taylor Nicole Bryant1 Bonnie Burns1
Kayla Madison Gonzalez1 Taylor Elizabeth Goodfellow3 Kennedi Danielle Gordon1 Judson Mac Graham1 Danielle Diane Gray1 Joseph Alexander Green III4 Brenna Elizabeth Greenall2 Clara Marie Griepp2
Stacy Renee Kelly1
Kirsten Brionna Dominy1 Shawn Hunter Doughten1 William James Dozier1 Rance E. Duff1
Claire E. Kemner2