224th Commencement Ceremony December 8 & 9, 2017 Alma Mater
‘Mong the stately pines of Georgia Glorious to the view Stands our noble Alma Mater Basking ‘neath the blue.
Alma Mater, thee we honor Praises never fail, For thy fame shall never perish, Red and Black — all hail!
Alma Mater’s sons and daughters Ever will be true. Always to thy heart returning Dear old V.S.U.
Alma Mater, thee we honor Praises never fail, For thy fame shall never perish, Red and Black — all hail!
Words by Helen Allen Thomas (’21) and Evelyn Brown (’24) Music by Dr. John Huxford, Professor Emeritus of Music Arranged for brass quintet by Kenyon Wilson
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 1 THE GRADUATE SCHOOL CEREMONY Acknowledgments
FACULTY MARSHALS The Graduate School Dr. David Nelson, Associate Professor, Communication Arts dr. Deborah Paine, Assistant Professor, Middle Grades, Secondary, Reading & Deaf Education dr. Nancy Swanson, Professor, Accounting dr. David Williams, Professor, History dr. Vicki Wetter, Assistant Professor, Nursing
THE PLATFORM PARTY Dr. Richard A. Carvajal, President of the University Dr. Rodney Carr, Vice President for Student Success Dr. Robert T. Smith, Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs Mrs. Traycee Martin, Vice President for Finance & Administration Dr. Vince Miller, Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. James T. LaPlant, Dean of the Graduate School & Assistant Vice President for Research Dr. Alan Bernstein, Dean of Library Faculty Dr. Lynn Minor, Interim Dean, Dewar College of Education & Human Services Dr. Sheri Noviello, Dean, College of Nursing & Health Sciences Dr. L. Wayne Plumly, Dean, Harley Langdale, Jr. College of Business Administration Mr. A. Blake Pearce, Dean, College of the Arts Dr. Connie Richards, Dean, College of Arts & Sciences Dr. Reynaldo L. Martinez, Professor & Head, Adult & Career Education Ms. Maya Mapp, President, VSU Student Government Association The Honorable James G. Tunison, President, VSU Alumni Association (Class of 1985) mrs. Brittany DiGiammarino, Graduate Student, Music Dr. Brian Ring, President, Faculty Senate Mr. Brandon Mainer, Chair, Council on Staff Affairs Mr. Stanley Jones, Registrar
2 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY THE GRADUATE SCHOOL CEREMONY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017 • 7:00pm • PE COMPLEX
ORDER OF PROGRAM
PRESIDING Dr. Richard A. Carvajal
OPENING OF EXERCISES Dr. Rodney Carr
PROCESSIONAL Please rise, if able, and remain standing.
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM Mrs. Brittany DiGiammarino
PLEASE BE SEATED.
WELCOME & INTRODUCTIONS Dr. Richard A. Carvajal
RECOGNITION OF MACE CARRIER dr. Richard A. Carvajal dr. Reynaldo Martinez
PRESENTATION OF Dr. Robert T. Smith CANDIDATES FOR DEGREES
READING OF CANDIDATES’ NAMES Dr. Vince Miller
CONFERRAL OF DEGREES Dr. Richard A. Carvajal
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION GREETING The Honorable James G. Tunison
CLOSING REMARKS Dr. Robert T. Smith
ALMA MATER Mrs. Brittany DiGiammarino
RECESSIONAL Please Remain in Place Until the Academic Recession is Completed
Sign Language Interpreting Provided by the VSU Access Office
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 3 THE UNDERGRADUATE CEREMONY Acknowledgments FACULTY MARSHALS
College of the Arts Mr. Hollis Barnett, Interim Department Head, Art & Design mr. Clyde Edwards, Associate Professor, Art & Design mr. Andrew Black, Lecturer, Communication Arts
College of Nursing & Health Sciences Dr. Heidi Gonzalez, Instructor, Nursing ms. Sandie Delk, Assistant Professor, Nursing ms. Denise Sauls, Lecturer, Nursing ms. Frances Youmans, Instructor, Nursing
College of Education & Human Services Dr. Shirley Andrews, Professor, Early Childhood & Special Education Dr. Blaine Browne, Associate Professor, Psychology, Counseling & Family Therapy dr. Steven Kohn, Associate Professor, Psychology, Counseling & Family Therapy dr. Katherine Lamb, Assistant Professor, Communication Sciences & Disorders
College of Business Administration dr. Ray Elson, Professor, Accounting dr. Luis Gonzalez, Associate Professor, Economics dr. Kenneth Moates, Associate Professor, Management dr. David Kuhlmeier, Professor, Marketing
College of Arts & Sciences Dr. Mark S. Groszos, Associate Professor, Physics, Astronomy, & Geosciences Dr. Theresa Grove, Associate Professor, Biology dr. Christine James, Professor, Philosophy & Religious Studies dr. Thomas J. Manning, Professor, Chemistry
THE PLATFORM PARTY Dr. Richard A. Carvajal, President of the University \ C. Thomas Hopkins, Jr., M.D., Chair, Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia Dr. Robert t. Smith, Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs Mrs. Traycee Martin, Vice President for Finance & Administration Dr. Vince Miller, Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Rodney Carr, Vice President for Student Success Lt. Col. Joseph D´Amico, II, United States Air Force Dr. Michael Savoie, Dean, Honors College Mr. A. Blake Pearce, Dean, College of the Arts Dr. Sheri Noviello, Dean, College of Nursing & Health Sciences Dr. Connie Richards, Dean, College of Arts & Sciences Dr. L. Wayne Plumly, Dean, Langdale College of Business Administration Dr. Lynn Minor, Interim Dean, Dewar College of Education & Human Services The Honorable James G. Tunison, VSU Alumni Association (Class of 1985) Ms. Maya Mapp, President, VSU Student Government Association Dr. Mark McQuade, Assistant Professor, Music Dr. Brian C. Ring, President, Faculty Senate Mr. Brandon M. Mainer, Chair, Council on Staff Affairs Mr. Stanley Jones, Registrar Dr. James T. Baxter, Professor, Chemistry ms. Erin Jadis Bridgeforth, President’s Award for Academic Excellence mr. David Thomas Hanna, President’s Award for Academic Excellence Ms. Caitlin Jessica Mozzo, President’s Award for Academic Excellence ms. Hunter Danielle Pope President’s Award for Academic Excellence ms. Amelia Morgan Thomas, President’s Award for Academic Excellence
4 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY THE UNDERGRADUATE CEREMONY SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2017 • 5:00pm • VSU FRONT LAWN
ORDER OF PROGRAM
PRESIDING Dr. Richard A. Carvajal
OPENING OF EXERCISES Dr. Rodney Carr
PROCESSIONAL Please rise, if able, and remain standing.
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM Dr. Mark McQuade
PLEASE BE SEATED.
WELCOME & INTRODUCTIONS Dr. Richard A. Carvajal
RECOGNITION OF MACE CARRIER dr. Richard A. Carvajal dr. James T. Baxter
PRESIDENT’S AWARD Dr. Robert T. Smith FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Dr. Richard A. Carvajal College of Business Administration Mr. David Thomas Hanna College of the Arts Ms. Hunter Danielle Pope College of Nursing & Health Sciences Ms. Amelia Morgan Thomas College of Arts & Sciences Ms. Erin Jadis Bridgeforth College of Education & Human Services Ms. Caitlin Jessica Mozzo
RECOGNITION OF HONORS Dr. Robert T. Smith
COMMISSIONING OF ROTC OFFICERS Lt. Col. Joseph D’Amico, II
COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS Dr. C. Thomas Hopkins
PRESENTATION OF Dr. Robert T. Smith CANDIDATES FOR DEGREES
READING OF CANDIDATES’ NAMES Dr. Rodney Carr dr. Vince Miller
CONFERRAL OF DEGREES Dr. Richard A. Carvajal
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION GREETING The Honorable James G. Tunison
CLOSING REMARKS Dr. Robert T. Smith
ALMA MATER Dr. Mark McQuade
PLATFORM PARTY RECESSIONAL Faculty & Graduates stay seated
FIREWORKS SHOW
Sign Language Interpreting Provided by the VSU Access Office
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 5 Commencement Speaker
C. Thomas Hopkins Jr., MD
Dr. Hopkins is a board certified orthopaedic surgeon and board certified in orthopaedic sports medicine. A Griffin, Georgia native, where he graduated high school, Dr. Hopkins is very much involved in his community and many state organizations.
He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Valdosta State University and then matriculated to the University of Georgia to complete his pre-medicine tract.
Dr. Hopkins received his medical degree and completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. He completed a fellowship in sports medicine in Atlanta, Georgia under the direction of Dr. John Garrett. Dr. Hopkins continued his postdoctoral training in Toronto, Canada completing an AO fellowship in orthopaedic trauma under the direction of Drs. Schatzker and Tile.
Dr. Hopkins served in the United States Air Force as a flight surgeon and later as an orthopaedic surgeon caring for our airmen and their dependants. He currently serves as Chair of the University System of Georgia Board of Regents. Dr. Hopkins is a board member of MAG Mutual Insurance Company and United Bank Corporation. His professional memberships include the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Medical Association of Georgia, Georgia Orthopaedic Society where he has served as past president, Arthroscopy Association of North America, Spalding County Medical Society, and the Rotary Club of Griffin serving past president.
Dr. Hopkins is married with two adult children and enjoys spending time with family, hunting, fishing, and serving his community. He is acting team physician for Griffin High School, Spalding High School, Pike County High School, and Gordon College.
6 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY Doctoral Degrees
Doctor of Education
Megan Ames* The Impact of Participation in the IEP Process for Middle School Students: Nikki Nacole Jackson An Explanatory Sequential Investigation A Smooth Transition: A Phenomenological Approach to Understanding Dr. E-Ling Hsiao, Curriculum, Leadership, & Technology the Experiences of First-time, Full-time, Provisionally Accepted Black Male Students Curdedra Andrews Dr. Dianne Dees, Curriculum, Leadership, & Technology Breaking Barriers: Successfully Retaining First Generation African American Male Students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities Ruthea G. Martin Dr. Rudo Tsemunhu, Curriculum, Leadership, & Technology Parental Involvement in Schooling: Perceptions of African American Parents and Guardians Christopher A. Bennett Dr. Karl Hull, Curriculum, Leadership, & Technology The Impact of TRIO Student Support Services on Nontraditional Students at a Public, State College in Georgia Melissa D. Walker Dr. E-Ling Hsiao, Curriculum, Leadership, & Technology A Concerns-based Approach to the Implementation of Blended Learning Based upon Teachers’ Perceptions Elizabeth S. Bennett Dr. Leon Pate and Dr. Daesang Kim, Curriculum, Leadership, & An Examination of Georgia Public School Wellness Policies and the Technology Mandated Implementation Requirements Dr. Michael Bochenko and Dr. Nicole Gibson, Curriculum, Warren Wyrostek* Leadership, & Technology A DACUM Analysis of Health Care Chaplains in Metro New York and the Implications for Clinical Pastoral Education Trenton D. Bennett Dr. Steve Downey, Curriculum, Leadership, & Technology The Impact of After-school Programs on Self-efficacy of Elementary School Students Dr. Donald Leech and Dr. Michael Bochenko, Curriculum, Doctor of Public Administration Leadership, & Technology Richard Brisson, III Stephen Daniel Exploring the Relationship between Publicly Available Internet Use and Motivations for Dual-enrollment from a Student’s Perspective: A Selected Crime Rates Qualitative Study Dr. Bonnie Peterson, Political Science Dr. Karla Hull, Curriculum, Leadership, & Technology Brant Gary Denise S. Danielson Tactical Professional Development in the Public Sector The Influence of Math Science Partnerships on Teacher Practices: A Dr. Robert Yehl, Political Sciences Mixed Methods Approach Dr. Herb Fiester, Curriculum, Leadership, & Technology Kristel Lynn Fitzgerald Money and Matriculation: A Comparative Study of Lottery-Based Heidi Christina Gonzalez* Education Funding and Enrollment at Public 4-Year Institutions of Explanatory Sequential Examination of Senior Baccalaureate Nursing Higher Education Students’ Critical Thinking after Participating in a Skills Fair Dr. Greg Rabidoux, Political Science Dr. Dianne Dees, Curriculum, Leadership, & Technology Carol A. Hamm Jennifer M. Gramiak* Identifying Possible Guidelines for Addressing the Unexpected Death of a An Examination of Work Ethics Instruction and Outcomes at a Southeast Co-worker in an Academic Workplace Georgia Technical College Dr. Michael Sanger, Social Work Dr. Reynaldo Martinez, Adult & Career Education
*Summer Graduates
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 7 Education Specialist Degrees
Travis Martin Allen Ellen Amanda Foy Lewis Craig Poore Ashton Kathleen Allen Shawn Garvin Franke Kristin Nicole Powell Amy Elizabeth Amaro Allison Renea Funk Andrew Paul Price Amber B. Attaway Amanda Sue Gaither Felicia Angel Pugh Julie Amanda Augustine Berenice Flores Garcia Byron Lance Purnell Chelsea DeVonna Bailey Patricia Acton Goolsby Brittany Shontae Register Milisia Baker Hunter Garrett Greer Candice Yvette Roberson Denise Nicole Belt Lisa A. Hardman Melissa Nicole Rowland Janiece Kodirae’ Benefield Pamela Di-Ann Heidelberg Christina Marie Rufenacht Brittney Bessillieu Debra Chyenne Henry Leanna Michele Sellers Kristy Kaul Bone Teresa Long Hils Brianna Nicole Shackelford Erin Flowers Brazel Cassie L. Hudson John Edwin Sharpe Brandin N. Brett Joshua Lee Ingram Jennifer Lynn Sherrod Andria Dee Brimhall Luke Donavan Ingram David Michael Sims Adam Christopher Brooks Kristyn McDiffitt Ivey Andrea Jeanette Smith Jeffrey Turner Brown Ariel Jackson Candis Jene’ Smith Shatavia Buck Demetrice Alexandria Jennings Keri Lawson Smith Eric James Cabrera Adriuna Johnson Travis Sental Smith Andrew Costen Calhoun Brittany Kimberly Kemp Alvin Dale Thrift Terri S. Carr Rebecca Dawn Kent Jeremiah Giles Trull April Denise Carroll Sarah Wolbert Kessinger Lashantel Lavita Veasey Mary Cecilia Caserta-Christy Benjamin Lee Lam Allison Renee Velie Jebb Thomas Cato Reggie Alan Lee Lori Herndon Waddell Trista Dorminy Clemons Joel Alexius Labbus Mathews Edward Nelson Walker Sven Colbert Kelsey Leeann McGahee Latrice Nicole Webster LeCara Shelley Cole Karen Keeney McMichael Richard Stonewall Wehunt Latavia Lermal Coleman Charity Wallace Miller Rachelle Dee Weisenburger Michael Howard Collins, Jr. LaQuinta Nicole Minor Alexis N. Welch Kayla Cook Conoly Alisha Farrand New Renae C. Wells April Michelle Cookson Kay Deree Nix Richard Chase Wilbanks Gayle Frances Cuomo Danette R. Noldy Bradley Scott Williams Demetra Bonds Curtis Telisha Odums-Oladele Jordan Jay Williams Anthony Dramis Christopher Michael Pangle Melody Jo Vining Williams Samantha Luke Duggan Alyssa Marie Parks Britt Ellis Wilson Megan Nicholle Edge Bradley Edward Partain Ronald Grant Wise Robert Nicholas English Melinda Y. Patterson Derrick Charles Yarbrough Sherry S. Exum Benjamin Hugh Paulk Janice LaCheryl Zeigler Erwin Fields Melissa Ann Phillips Jameka C. Fields Alecia Vinson Pittman
8 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY Master Degrees
Erica Danielle Cruz MASTER OF ARTS Wendy Leigh Hughes Jennifer Paja Darke Jonathan Emery Johnson Jocelyn Brianne Dawal Sara Elaine Barrera Riland Lee Jones Jennifer Louise Deaver Jennifer Kirk Bowers Esther Kim Ashley Nicole DeMott Anca Olguta Giorgiana Garcia Duschun Denise McAdoo Paige Maunsell Denmark Melissa Edmiston Johnson Shannon Elizabeth Mikszan Catherine Mckinley Dennis Paula Leonette Parsons Eric Brandon Miller Danielle Alanna Donaldson Benjamin Charles Roth Shank Kerry Wayne Morris Melinda Joy Donaldson Stephanie Nicole Newham Kayla Michelle Dove Africa Nefertiti Okoro Andrew Thomas Dunn MASTER OF ACCOUNTANCY Alexandria LaCoya Pinnix Jennifer LeFever Dunn Melissa Rampal Shaeroya Jenecia Earls Chelsea Elaine Burke Heather Joanna Marie Sardina Hollee Nicole Eastwood Obed Carachure Kristin Rene Tupper Michael Justin Ellis Patricia Lynette Lawrence Davis Westberry Brandon Keith Evans Janis Anne McCullar Sharelle Nicole Young DD Chelsea Peavy Evans Zachary Allen Nimmo Cassandra Leigh Fainter Eric Scot Osborne Tanya Marie Fields Marissa Smith Phillips MASTER OF EDUCATION Jonathon Taylor Fincher Peter James Russell Laurel Houston Foreman Benjamin Gordon Thaxton Taylor Rutherford Addison Brittney Chelsea Forrest Jasmine Brianne Walker Alyssa Renee Adler Stephanie Dowst Francis Brittany Nicole Weaver Brandy Carter Austin Jonathan Tadashi Gambrell Christopher Paul Wysong Maya Yvonne Austin Lauren Ashley Garcia Stewart Cameron Young, Jr. Randy LaShawn Austin Mary Katelyn Gaskins Jennifer Katlin Aviles Jamie Turner Gill Jennifer Lynne Luke Barfield Ashley Bloom Goodroe MASTER OF ARTS FOR Kelli Rene Barnes Rebecca Lynn Graham TEACHERS Haley Shae Bassett Angela Lynn Gray Amiee Welch Bell Braelinn Elyse Gray Adriana Lee Amerson Rachel Lynn Blair Lauren Brittany Griner AnnaLaura Elizabeth Beason Stephanie Wade Blount Anna Rose Baird Gunnells Julie Riggle Drury Sarah Elizabeth Breedlove Connie Sue Guthrie Callie Joan Fernandez Debra Lynn Bridges Madeliene Elizabeth Hanley Karen Jennifer Giera Maranda Carmell Bright Maggie Tyson Harper John Tyler Gilbert Meah Thornton Browning Katie Lauren Harrell Melissa Renee Jamison Abigail Bridges Burle Kylie Alexis Harrell Jarod Antwain Perry Shaning Nicole Burns Taylor Madlyn Harrington Zachary Tyler Pine Chantyl Tiara Butler Ashley Nicole Harris Robert Junior Rosado Jason Samuel Cann Lauren Nicole Harrold Lauren Paige Tomlinson Brianna Marie Carlan Alissa Lynn Helton Matthew Dallon Walker Jasmine DeNae’ Carr Ashley Nicole Hendricks Aryn Courtney Ward Kimberly Alecia Carr Rhonda Lee Herb Consuela Katrice Woodson Mary Faith Carter Domonique Rashida Hines Joshua Clarence Zeigler Terry Randall Carter Shelly Catherine Hobrat Caitlin Ashley Chaney Tameka Toni-Ann Hughes Lauren Brooke Chaney Jennifer Mae Hutchinson MASTER OF BUSINESS Brandi Warren Chitty John-Derik Hutchinson ADMINISTRATION Natalie L. Christopher Diamond Lenai Jefferies Shauntel LeVante Clark Danielle Victoria Jiles Keri Ciara Belvin Stephanie Noland Clayton April Ward Johnson Shelly Bragg Nancy Eileen Cole Ashley Lynne Johnson Kara Alden Buescher Darryl Ray Colley, II Jasmine Catrice Johnson Jacqueline Rae Gabehart Katie Elise Collins Rebecca Suzanna Johnson Gisele Anne Greaux Lisa Gayle Cosby Tabatha Talessia Jones Kelsey Elise Hall Hannah Elizabeth Cowles Kayla Elyse Jones-McIntosh Deacon Gant Hudson Mary Page Crutcher Carlee Denise Kelley
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 9 Tamara Ellington Kelly Katherine Elaine Rozelle MASTER OF LIBRARY AND Kelly Lynn Kendrick William Askar Ruttencutter INFORMATION SCIENCE Jessica Elizabeth Kimbrell Brittney Lynn Ryals DEGREE Jeremy Keith King Margaret Leslie Sandbach Gregory Koch Nancy Lynn Schultz George John Aiello Hannah Kos Chelsea Margaret Sexton Mary Rebekah Baker Amy Lynne Kruger Meghan Siobhan Sibert Ellen Catherine Baxter Megan Pepples Lawrence Kelly Jean Sievert Yolanda Marie Bergstrom-Lynch Carolyn R. Lee Hannah Lee Simmons Amelia Elizabeth Blackmon Marissa Joy Lee Shayla Nicole Singleton Morgan A. Bordelon Hannah Kathryn Little Leslie Ann Staebler Matthew Alexander Borders Sean Corey Little Katherine Bailey Stone Cherese Alaine Cadet Kimberlee Antoinette Lloyd Tiffany Rachel Stracener William J. Carroll Laura Wood Lopez Joseph Taylor Strickland Albert Morales Cortes Victoria Rose Lovett Samantha Caroline Sturm Allison-Brooke Crawford Bethanie Ruple Loyd Patricia Ann Sumner Meghan Molly Crews Leah Brielle Lyons Ashlee Nicole Swanson Kyle Thomas DeBell Nicole Bailey Mahony Katherine Morgan Sydow Caroline Taylor Dial Rebecca Lee Manny Joseph Leonard Tassitano, III Bradley Ryan Douthat Allison Marie Martin Angela Nicole Thomas Anna Elizabeth Dunson Tekeyah Fanchon Martin Cinzia Coleman Thomas Robert Joseph Dye, Jr. Kristopher Lane Martinez Ashley Lauren Thompson Kevin O’Neal Ellis John Andrew McCall Rachel Carter Umstead Jason Donald Farris Lesley Morgan McCall Vicky Lynne Toulson Usry Emily George Kayla Bullard McDowell Rebecca Michelle Vandett Pamela Jay Groseclose Colleen Elizabeth McGinn Holli Varnadore Elizabeth Ann Hall Charles Dylan McLean Gregory Lawton Vaughn Preston Graham Helms Katie Elizabeth Medders Carli Kay Vick Holly Cheyenne Holder-Brown John Franklin Millican, III Jasmine Antionette Walker Deborah Suzanne Kreiser-Francis Kaitlyn Speed Mitchell Nicole Rene’ Waller John Christian Lott Caroline Jamison Moore Nia Imani Ward Xin Luan Bridget Allison Mullen Rebekah A. Watson Jason Matthew Mailman LaTrease Walker Myles Brittney Chiara Watts Karen Manning Sarah Elizabeth Norman Brandon A. White Lisa Marie Mosley Kimberly Wynell Oberg Morgan Leigh Wiggins Anne Michele Moye Emily Ann O’Gorman Daniel Marcus Williams Molly Rose Nickerson Ashley Youngblood Oliver Elizabeth Flythe Williams Kimberly P. Ottesen Miguel Alfonso Olivera Kimberly Denise Williams Vanessa Elaine Pittman Allison Kay Owens Ashley LeeAnn Willmont Rashida Kasi Rawlins Madison Kay Owensby De’Juan Antoinette Winfield Jessica Kristen Robertson Marianne Harley Parker Frances Hart Woodard Lamonica Sanford Sydney Alexandra Phillips Joshua Ryan Woodworth Dana Kloeppel Sharitt Mary Kathryn Pounds Anthony Kyle Yates Deborah Shepherd Stanfield Elizabeth Quinn Hilary Ann Young Dallas Albert Suttles Caitlin Elizabeth Reagin Rebecca Molly Young Adrian Luke Vaagenes Leanna Elaine Reddish Ashita Arvind Zaveri Tara Weekes Marquisa T. Rivers Molly Elizabeth Zechman Stacey Lynn Wright Kirsten Jagger Roberson Britani Anne Zoellner Mary Beth Yeary Jerre’ Marie Robinson Cara Florence Yurkowski Katherine Jane Robinson
10 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY MASTER OF MUSIC MASTER OF SCIENCE Daria Chantal Thompson EDUCATION Lindsay Marie Tucker Bianca Alexandria Barton Jessica Lynn VanDeVelde Asayla Annette Everett Hannah Marie Bellina Erica Cathleen Velazquez James C. Worthy Anissa M. Bowers Angellica Marie Wentworth Destiny Shae Brooks Johnny Herbert White Diane M. Brunston Julian Damek Wood MASTER OF MUSIC IN Khalliah Grace Bryant Lindsey Ashlin Wright PERFORMANCE Redonno Zepel Carmon Jennifer Nicole Yingling DD Katelyn Olivia Coburn Sharelle Nicole Young Terry Leon Andrews, Jr. Cheryl S.A. Coleman Elizabeth Britanny DiGiammarino Grant Shane Crews Dyson Edward Davies MASTER OF SCIENCE IN Alexious Amanda Martavia Denson NURSING MASTER OF PUBLIC Abriel Blake Farrow ADMINISTRATION Kimberlee Anne Fields William T. Dwight, III Kaitlyn Alizabeth Floyd Shadara Marie King Afnan Mohammad Saleh AL-Bediny Eveny Raye Griffin Hye Sun Lee Abdullah Khaled Almugren Aylesha Janae Gurley Melissa Stephens Nash Cenetta Victoria Baker Peggy Patricia Harless Gerald Kevin Thompson Scott Greene Blount Nicholas Sage Harris Elizabeth Ann Broadie Rikki T. Hightower Angelia G. Brown Zadie Erica James MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK Christopher Lee Cary Tatiana Shana Jones Elizabeth Ashley Crews Beverley Joseph Tina Price Butts Nathan Brock Daley Jason Michael Jowers Erica Dawn DeVane Pramir K. C. Laura Wright Deen Ashley Noelle Lanier Bradley Stephen Gernazian Lorri Nicole Leong Lauren Henry Harrell Kayla Michele Lewis Kimberly K. Hobbs Violina Georgieva Lilova Toren S. Hogan Chelsea Susanne Marty Victoria Danielle Johnson La’Wanda Kizzy Maxwell Lexis Casey Lloyd Reginald Guy McCutcheon Jhoskesia Shantrelle Manigault Kiara Ivory McNair Sarah Faye Matta Justin Tyler Moore Sharon G. Pyles Kiarra L. Morton Zackary Saunders Tiffany Lynn Newman Kendria Nicole Swift Elizabeth Liddell Newton Savianna M. W. Terrelonge Mason Richard Pacek Leroy Rod Trower Tori Ann Pitts Shauntae LaDawn Walker Michael Richard Stalvey India L. Wilcox Alyson Krystina Stewart
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 11 Honors & Commissioning
Graduation with Academic Madison Brooke Nash SUMMA CUM LAUDE Honors Joshua Kenneth Oliver Jaimie Nicole Bennett Shannon McConnell Owens Kammi Virginia Blackwelder Baccalaureate recipients with outstanding Ravi S. Patel Erin J. Bridgeforth scholastic records graduate with academic Alaiyah Sherese Potts Kimberly Eva Cannon honors. Exceptional students with Ashlie Marie Prain William Jayson Allen Crum cumulative grade point averages of at least Callie Ochia Ragan Autumn Diane Denmark 3.9 (where A = 4.0) graduate summa cum Ariel Sharia Roddy Esmeralda Ana Eichler laude. Students with scholastic averages Brianna Danielle Ross David Thomas Hanna between 3.7 and 3.899 graduate magna cum Aaron Ruddle Justin Tyler Lipsey laude. Students with cumulative scholastic Meredith Kate Schlierf Zhaoling McDuffie averages between 3.5 and 3.699 graduate Jazmin Nicole Serrano-Arce Caitlin Jessica Mozzo cum laude. The scholastic averages are Jessica Sha-Ray Smith Hunter Danielle Pope calculated for academic work completed Rhianna Janea Smith Cara Anne Robinson at Valdosta State and other institutions, Alicia Denise Snowden Jeannette Natalie Uriostegui and students must have earned at least 60 Michelle L. Tanner hours from Valdosta State to qualify. Since Brooke Alexandra Thomas academic honors are computed before Graduation from the Honors Brian Joseph Thompson all grades are submitted, students whose College Evan Turner final records qualify them to graduate with The VSU Honors College offers students Joshua Graham Waller academic honors, or into higher honors who demonstrate superior academic Brady Alexander Whitehouse categories, will ultimately be so designated promise an opportunity to enhance their Adrienne Nicole Williams on their diplomas and transcripts. If curricular experiences by enrolling in students’ final grades fall below academic uniquely challenging courses sponsored by MAGNA CUM LAUDE honors levels, the honors designations will the College of Arts and Sciences, College Misti Dawn Allen be changed or removed. of the Arts, Harley Langdale, Jr. College of Jodi Lynn Anderson Business Administration, and James L. & Cameron Dean Buescher CUM LAUDE Dorothy H. Dewar College of Education & Hyein Cho Kristiel Yamiri Alvarado Human Services. Students graduating with Brendan Michael Collins Alexander Montgomery Bowden this designation have successfully completed Rebecka Michelle Cruz Sierra La’Shae Brown a minimum of 20 credit hours of Honors Rufus Thomas Freeman, Sr. Kory Derell Burns core courses and have taken at least two Lisa Cecilia Garcia Tae Eun Choi interdisciplinary seminars while maintaining Derek James Hathaway Bradley Kelvin Collins a 3.2 or better university grade point Brian Scott Hornsby Dallas Allen Cook average. Rhesa Lee Hyde Stephanie Grace Crawford David Allen Johnson Michael Shawn Danis Kimberly Castro Drew Austin Johnson Kristopher Diaonte Dawson Lauren Fulgham Julie Olivia Kline Cheyenne Alexandria Ervin Amanda Gunnells Mary Virginia May John Tyler Exum David Hanna Sarah Lynn Moore Kyndal Shere’ Farrill Caitlyn Heesh Nicole Chinaza Njoku Mikayle Alesa Foster Julie Olivia Kline Cortney Ann Philpot Lauren Elizabeth Fulgham Sarah Moore Courtney LeFleur Pope Alexis Shekirrah Shante’ Harden Hunter Pope Sumer Shaye Powell Emily Christina Harless Cara Robinson Andres Felipe Ramos Shawna Harper Abigail Schwartz Christopher David Rogers Jeremy Wayne Johns Jasmine Sisk Abigail Kathryn Schwartz Chelsea Leanne Jones LaTarsha Taylor Viviana Andreia Moreira Da Silva Cornell Clay Jones Amelia Thomas Chardonai Arielle Reynolds Kaylene Marie Kimsey Jennifer Rebecca Michelle Stanford Caitlyn Deanna Koutsky Commissions from Military Mitchell James Surface Amyie Dekle Mathis Science/U.S. Air Force ROTC Aubrey Minnette Sweeney Lindsay Elise Michael LaTarsha Denean Taylor Genie H. Miller Mr. Dallas Cook Amelia Morgan Thomas Nikole Kristine Miller Moody Air Force Base, Georgia Tyler Mason Thompson Shelby Nicole Miller Curtis Lamar Watson, Jr. Brittany Marie Morales Mr. Blake Byers Autumn Brianna Yokeley Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico
12 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY Undergraduate Degrees
Undergraduate Degrees Kory Durell Burns* Tiana Jenea Foster Courtney Nicole Burten Alexis J. Frazier Students listed in this program are Ashley Danielle Butts Rufus Thomas Freeman, Sr. * candidates for the degree indicated; Dezmeon Quantez Byrd Emily Catherine Fuller students will be awarded the degrees once Christina Janee Cahill Lisa Cecilia Garcia* all requirements have been met. (*Honor Kimberly Eva Cannon* Biancco Millard Gardner Graduate, DM Double Major, DD Double Degree) Adelaide Martine Cantave Alexus Danielle Garrett Niamani T’Keymah Carlyle-Hollis Grant Jordan Gardner Nicolas Maxwell Carter Courtney Chant’e Gates Chris Blake Caspari Dustin Fredrick Geoghagan Kevin Leonardo Chavez Tomeka Nicole Giddens COLLEGE OF ARTS & Latavia Rosetta Cheeks Brionna Patrice Gilliam SCIENCES Hyein Cho DM* Rachel Goins Brittany Leigh Clark Terrell Jamall Goodson Ethan Aaron Adkins Tiffany Kay Clark Briana Patrice Goolsby Elnora Tiara Aikens Hunter Devin Jamel Clements Stacey Denice Gore Misti Dawn Allen* Lakisha Monique Coleman Jeremy Caleb Grable Nicholas Allen Donovan Raoul Colton Kayla Marie Grady Faisal Abdullah Almansour Blake Thomas Connell Amy Michelle Gray Jordon Kyle Anderson David Brian Converse Eric V. Haas Peggy Marie Andrews Dallas Allen Cook* Benjamin Clay Hafer Christian Paul Manalo Anes Wesley Inman Ogletree Cook Kathleen Lorraine Hager David Hunter Auld Ariana Monet Cooper Montarius Jovan Hames Logan Howard Balkcom Laurel Harlee Copeland Earl Jomari Hammonds David Tyler Ballew Michelle Hall Cottle Alexis Shekirrah Shante’ Harden* Roxi Anne Barkley Donald D.S. Cox, II Amber Rena Harper John Hauser Barr Tristan James Crawford, Sr. Zindzi C’Yanna Harris William Dewayne Baskin Iris Elaine Cray Keonia Latres Harvey Angela Brianna Bass Geneva Renee-Sproling Crooks Jazmyne Nichelle Hatcher Kiersten Chermagne Bass Chelsea Nichole Cruver Derek James Hathaway* Kiera Yanette Bastien Rebecka Michelle Cruz* Vanessa Nicole Haugabrook Jameson Colby Batten Johnny Omar Daniel William Silas Heard Yvonne P. Bell Blake Alexandra Daniels Caitlyn Sue Heesh Jaimie Nicole Bennett* Michael Shawn Danis* Synclare Charmaine Henry Jeffrey Hunter Betts Quinton Nathaniel Davenport Elijah Muhammad Herrera Paula Danielle Bicoy Gregory Owen Davis LeThonia DeShawn Herring Christine Nicole Blackmon MaKenzie Jeri Davis Najada Lytira Hester Ravic Gibson-Avila Blake Mason Kamille Dean Porsha Denise Hillman Kennedy Si’mone Blount Ava Dawn Deverger Rusty Lee Hogan Whitley Ann Blythe Nicholas Adam Deverger Aruna Lanae Holmes Madeleine McGraw Bodiford Brian George Deye Javin Labryant Holmes Sean Michael Bolan Daniel Lee Dixon, Jr. Brian Scott Hornsby* Sumyr P. Boudreaux Aaron Javon Dixon Taylor Aldan Hritz Kimberley Capella Brannan Miya Renise Dixon Daneil Khalill Hudson Erin J. Bridgeforth* Micah Alexander Downs Brittany Lynnette Hughes Titiyuna Latrica Bridges Chantel Nicole Durden Brittney Shenese Hunter Tonya Lynette Brookhouser Samantha Lynn Dwyer Richard Emanuel Hussey Chelsea Alexis Brown Tyler Ian Edgar Rhesa Lee Hyde* Mary Alice Brown Rommie Lee Edwards Kelsie Ingram Miles Anthony Brown Stanley Eric Elkins Chelsea Denise Jackson Se’Quan Ty’re Brown James Paul English, IV Yalonda Elece Jackson Larry Bryant, Jr. Cheyenne Alexandria Ervin* William James Jeffers Willis Richard Bryant Dominique Angelica Evans Asante-Sudani Ade’ Jenkins Racquel Monique Buckland Pierre Jean-Paul Evans Aziza Cherrie Johnson David Louis Burdett John Tyler Exum DM* Brittaney Rachelle Johnson Shaquille Oshae Burley Kyndal Shere’ Farrill* Cameron Allen Johnson Gabriel Christian Burns Khai Simone Fitzgerald Chandler R. Johnson Heather Corina Burns Lydia Marie Flintroyal Drew Austin Johnson*
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 13 Ja’cynthia Shakura Johnson Cassandra Ann Murray Lavonia Patrizia Sauls Lea Michelle Johnson Mistie Lynn Myers Hakeem M. Sawyer Malcolm McCoy Sterling Johnson James Albert Myles Emily Ann Scarborough Michael Anthony Johnson Madison Brooke Nash* Abigail Kathryn Schwartz* Terry Denise Johnson Alexis Chakari Nesmith Cemone Allisse Scott Chelsea Leanne Jones* Kyle New Jared Edwin Setser Cornell Clay Jones* Charlie Dakota Nipper Danielle Shaw Lashonda Leesiona Jones Nicole Chinaza Njoku* Rebecca Sloan Shuman Taylor Langston Keels Tara Seago O’Steen Haley Nicole Simmons Keonna Shabri Kelly Chibuzo I. Okoye Shabri Izhae Simpson Jasmine Ashley Kennedy Cameron Rashad Olds Ardelle Charisse Singleton Kevin Patrick Ketts Joshua Kenneth Oliver* Whitney Charese Slaton Jin Won Kim Taylor Oliver Donald Edward Small Wan-Sub Kim Martha Jo Olszewski Daniel E. Smith Ryan Taylor Kincaid Victoria Aimee Ostapski Hannah Latrice Smith Gabrielle Nicole King Shannon McConnell Owens* Huston Scott Smith Cameron Rashaan Kirby Link Dennis Warren Pair Alicia Denise Snowden* Patsy Denise Kirkland Raymond Palmer Beautiful-Summer Nikyra Spears Julie Olivia Kline* Cynthia Theresa Papailler Joseph Dean Spivey, II Larianne Michele Kolb Sanguk Park Christopher Mark Spurlock Edmund Wesom Kugbila Taylor Cowart Parker Jennifer Rebecca Michelle Stanford* Brent William Kyzar Sarah Grace Parrish Elly Michelle Steed Jessica Renee Lamb Nishita Umesh Patel John Scott Stephen Marissa Bianca Lauderdale Douglas E. Pearson, Jr. Ashley Feshun Stewart Amelia Lauren Lazerson Melissa Ann Pearson Hunter Davis Stone Roberto Alfonso Leal Daniel Royce Pendleton Kathleen Suzanne Stone April Diane Ledford Shannon Marie Pendleton Olivia Anne Studdard Kyle Vincent Lee Elizabeth Ann Persse Mitchell James Surface* Myeong Sub Lee Vinh-Hoa T. Phan Amber Victoria Sutton Chasity Lewis Ashley Eneeki Pitts Christopher Michael Swanson Selene Charnelle Lisbey Joseph Thomas Platt Cody Alen Swenson Juliette Yvonne Lokey Mark Edgar Ponder Allison Brianne Taylor Miguel Alexander Lopez Rinna De’Shonia Ponder Erica Lee Taylor Staci Anne MacKey Jennifer Michelle Porter LaTarsha Denean Taylor* Alexandru Malos Ashlie Marie Prain* Sarah Taylor Allison Carol Mann Ratu Orisi Rabelo Jessica Bius Teepell Kimberlee Marshall Callie Ochia Ragan* Tamelonie Jean Thomas Dionta Latrelle Mason Andres Felipe Ramos* Ty’wanna L. Thomas Michael Jerome McCall Elizabeth Ratliff Brian Joseph Thompson* Morgan Marie McGuire Demetris Letrease Raymond Phillip Tyler Trussell Courtney Calisa McKinnon Quintin Rashaad Reed Evan Turner* Casey Britt Meulemans Amanda Ann Renshaw Matthew Stephen Tuten Lindsay Elise Michael* Monica Elaine Reyes Alexis Michelle Tyler Celeste Taylor Miles JaLesa Renee’ Reynolds Emily Loren Unglaub Genie H. Miller* Kiara Kamoya Richardson David Clemente Urbina Shelby Nicole Miller* D’Amonte’ Deshawn Ridley Jeannette Natalie Uriostegui* Alfreddie Mingledorff, Jr. Morgan Brooke Roberts Jomal Warren Vailes Ashley Lewis Minshew Ashlee Diamondnique Robinson Tyler Scott Vander Zanden Megan Anne Molargik Jerry Lewis Rockamore Dillon Todd Veal Jun Moon Ariel Sharia Roddy* Akayla Marie Vershay Christopher Gary Moore Santiago Rodriguez Annesly Tyler Vickers Isaac Christopher Moore Lee Romance Fabien Vincent Jacquelyn Moore Antonio Rowden Joshua Andrew Walker Joseph Sidney Moore Marc Andrew Ruotola Quiera Danielle Walker Chigozie Morah William Ross Ryder Kala Wallace James Travis Moss Nancy K. Samuel Destin Heather Wardwell Larry Darnell Murphy Alexandria Morgan Sauders Meredith Anne Warren
14 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY William Tyler Watson Christopher Aubrey Crowder Alexis VaShunta McCutchin Jason O’Brian Webster Connor Mitchell Dalrymple DM Zhaoling McDuffie DM* Tyler L. Werthwine Elizabeth Rae Danforth Jessica Danielle McFall Mia LeeAnn West Grace Lenora Daniels Kristina Lynne McNutt Carlius Antwan Williams Jasmine Lafrasher Daniels Hanna Addisu Mesfin Dairmid Kenyatta Williams Amber Victoria Davis Alison Nimbiye Mgbeke Lindsey Brooke Williams Jacquez Deonte Davis Christian Alexis Mikell DM Richard Darren Williams Keri Davis Kristopher Damond Milon Shantelle Hensley Williams Jason Henry Dieas Otis Dewayne Moody, Jr. Thaira Elisa Williams Catherine Danielle Dillavou Robert Hoke Morrow Tiffany Natalie Williams Graham Clement Dumett Douglas Reid Myers Christopher Everett Wilson Nabria Nikole DunnDM Kameron Solomon Myers LaCovya Suk-cha Wilson Jaisen Daniel Edwards Linsie Renee Myers Kaylyn Elizabeth Wimbish Tyler Sebastian Edwards Ra’che Shanice Myers Casey John Wood Ashley Starletta Franklin Joshua Juwan Nathan Jazmine Lenay Workman Lauren Elizabeth Fulgham* Irelin Sarah O’Donnell Anne Katherine Worst Brandon Jerel Grace Eric Scot Osborne James Lamar Wright, Jr. Alan Russell Griffin Nahoemi S. M. Pablo Anthony Lee Wright Brittany Taylor Griffin Skyla Atlise Palmer Matia Lanay Wright Hillary Danielle Griffin Soo Yeon Park Shea Wynn Lakyn Faith Griffin Jeremy David Parker Victor Timothy Wyrick Dylan Chase Haithcock Lori Lynn Parker Doi You Adam Charles Hall Cody Alan Parrish Kandis Denise Hall Hiren Rajendra Patel David Thomas Hanna* Ravi S. Patel* James Bradford Hanson Vishal Bharatbhai Patel COLLEGE OF BUSINESS Cullen Walker Harvard, Jr. Kevin Paul ADMINISTRATION Garrett Lodge Harvard Alyssa Monique Payne DeAngela Michelle Harvey David Cornell Phelps, II Hussain Talal Al-Abbasi Aria Halima Rose Hersi Aquala Ariel Pritchard Saad Alharthi Keona Neshay Hill Sara Ashley Purser Kristiel Yamiri Alvarado* Nicholas Allan Hylton Cara Anne Robinson DM* Jodi Lynn Anderson* Hugh Gaughf Ivey DM Davis Scott Roche Aanuoluwa Bisayo Ayoleke Desmond Ross Jackson Aaron Ruddle* Dallas Barker Baldner Cheyenne Savannah Jaglal Fariela D. Sambo Johnathon Gage Barnes Brianna Ashlee Johnson Katherine Hall Scarbrough Chelsea Marie Beals Tempestt Cherell Johnson Tristan Timothy Scott Morgan Leigh Bloodworth Martika Sharial Jones Alexander Franklin Segars Markia Sharmaine Blount DM Brandon Timothy Keller Dae hee Seo Zarich Bonner Kimberly Nicole Kennedy Trent Michael Shallow Alexander Montgomery Bowden* Solbi Kim Mallory Blair Shaw Taylor Kyle Brice Yerim Kim Robert Kyle Simpson Naphatalia Deandre Brinson Jihee Kim Jasmine Andrin Sisk Sierra La’Shae Brown* Trevor Quinton Lampe Joseph Ford Spinks Donavan Leon Brownlee Katelyn Bloodworth Land DM Hamill Bennett Stewart Ashley Nicole Burnett Matthew Glen Larson James Robert Stogin Christopher JaVares Butts Ajani J. Leaphart Andrew Logan Sumner Blake Anthony Byers Seung Yull Lee Lori Graham Taylor Kyana C. Campbell Niquette Stephanie Linton Sara Katherine Taylor Payton-Sha’Tyri Terriana Carter Pierce McFerrin Lovett DM Jasmine M’shay Tharpe Justin A. Chadwick Maiya Linn Mabry Thomas Thigpen Adrian Jarred Chambers Coby Tyler Manning India Monique Thompson Khalfini Abayomi Chastang Dominique Nichole Manns Miketta Valana Thompson Taeeun ChoiDM* Jacquelin Librada Marrero Tyler Mason Thompson* Alexandra Suad Claborn Michael Robert Marshall Jordan Bailee Thornton Jade Lorelle Cook Kellie Jordan McCarty Jack Donovan Turrentine Beatrice Landry Coop Nathan K. McCullers Leeann Patsy Varvel
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 15 Nakshi Vyas Ashley Franae Ford Raven Danielle Richard Jeremy Andrew Walker Mikayle Alesa Foster* Erica Taylor Ashley Garza Richardson Nicole Danielle Walker Catrina Alies George Jill Johnson Robinson Tyler Joseph Wall Alexandria Christine Godfrey Dorrie Romero Ruben Anthony Ward Jenna Lynn Gonzalez Brianna Danielle Ross* Samekh Antoinette Ward Tegan J. Hall Sharonda Rozier Shaquill LaRonz Warner Constance Hammonds Rhianna Janea Smith* Haley Elizabeth Wassom Khadijah LaShae Hardiman Robbie N. Smith Justin Mikal Waters Shawna Harper* Asia Lenore Spencer Elgin Jarrell Welch, Jr. Tara Lyne Harris Hannah Ann Sprayberry Effaney Michelle White Tierra Simone Hatchell Emily Arnold Stephens Reagan Lindsey White Inde Faith Herrington Michelle L. Tanner* Adrienne Nicole Williams* Alyssa Marie Hickey Gary Dean Terrell Brock Michael Williams Cetoyia Darelle Hill Christopher Michael Thomas Jasmine Nicole Williams Jessica Marie Hubler Ashley MeShelle Thompson Jessica Mene Willis Chatari Angelique Humphrey Daneka Ashanti Todd Nathinael Hailu Wondimu DM Ebony Keoshia Johnson Tyler Dwayne Vieira Glenn Allen Yontz Katrina Michelle Johnson Orlando Villamizar Monica Renee Johnson Sara Armissie Walker-Hood Brandon Morris Jones Curtis Lamar Watson, Jr.* COLLEGE OF EDUCATION Shaquira Latrese Kearson Tachiana Cournita Watts & HUMAN SERVICES Kaylene Marie Kimsey* Erica Rose Wells Janae Nychelle King Megan Marie Wetherington Emoni Efijenia Acevedo Ryan Pearce King Anthony Tyheen Williams Cheryl F. Acree Caitlyn Deanna Koutsky* Tykevia Keyon Williams Destini Marie Adams Sheah Racheal Lane Carissa Ashley Willis Veronica Denise Alexander Morgan Alyssa Lewellen Courtney Zenia Winston Khadisia Shaquan Allen Khadeidra D. Linder John William Yearta Giovanni Francois Andre James Henry Lindsey Roshmel Dequan Young Kiara Monique-Chante Baldwin Alina S. Lopez Sarah Cecilia Banwart Charity Juliette Lumpkin Sedric Donielle Barlow Jackie Mack COLLEGE OF NURSING & James Patrick Barnes Ryan Alexander Manard HEALTH SCIENCES Frank F. Barnett Latrice Necole Marshall Kammi Virginia Blackwelder* Destiney Briana Martin Irvin Alvarez Isaiah Emanuel Booker Amyie Dekle Mathis* Stephanie Ann Arnold John William Brisk, II Ciera Elisabeth McKinnon Shane Curtis Ashcraft Jeffrey Lee Brown Shiranda Leconda Mims Katherine Elaine Banks Karena Crystal Brown Markala Maire Moore Christopher Alan Bartek Seth Cianci Brown Tyler Nicole Morgan Shanita M. Bartlett-Cummings Ikea Sharnay Calhoun Caitlin Jessica Mozzo* Racheal Ann Bashaw Amber Justice Chinn Kishonna O’Niese Nance Christina Marie Beil Ronica Clark Ebenezer Tetteh Nater Erika Maria Benjumea Myrese Pierr Cobb Michael Chieloka Onyiorah, Jr. Vianey Alexandra Blades Katherine Naomi Compton Carrie Sullins Pawloski Alyssa Nicole Blankenship Shana Abby-Lee Cone Jasen Andrew Pence Brandi Michelle Blount Nakeysia Nashae Cook Bridget Murdace Perkins Jordan McKenzie Boyd Stephanie Grace Crawford* Nicholas Latrey Perry Cameron Dean Buescher* Jeremy Wayne Cummings Claudeshia Pertilla Kimberley Lynn Cain Danielle Michael Czymbor Cortney Ann Philpot* Austin Bradley Carver Garth Anthony Daley Marsallis Jamal Ponder Kimberly Joanne Castro Analyss Brooklyn DelBoccio Courtney LeFleur Pope* Ciarra Olivia Chapman Haley Joe Dodson Hunter Danielle Pope DM* Hanifa Charaniya Jenae’ Katherine Durham Alaiyah Sherese Potts* Alejandra Chihuahua John Kalen Eddings Kelly Susan Proffitt Kayla Nicole Childers Esmeralda Ana Eichler* Chardonai Arielle Reynolds* Hunter Lamar Clanton Andrew Bryan Felton Sandra Jean Reynolds Travonsve Ezekiel Colbert
16 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY Bradley Kelvin Collins* Christopher David Rogers* Cameron Nicole Edwards Gary-Wayne Luke Collins Emily Ruth Rowe Jourdan Saria Evans Sarah Lorraine Creveling Brent Matthew Sappe Jeremy Glenn Everidge William Jayson Allen Crum* Courtney Lasomi Sawyer Niakia Desre Fontes Brittany Anne Davis Meredith Kate Schlierf* Amr Mohammad Foudah Samantha Jane Davis Viviana Andreia Moreira Da Silva* Jordan Anthony Germany Kristopher Diaonte Dawson* Cierra Slaughter TaLaisja Mone’ Gilliam Brittney Marie Driver Jessica Sha-Ray Smith* Taylor Danielle Gray Jordan Danielle Dunn Leah Nicole Sullivan Hanna Lorene Hamstra Shannon Aileen Eby Aubrey Minnette Sweeney* Joely Carolina Henriquez Kristina Jeanine Evans Kristen Brooke Taylor Julia Elaine Higgs David Lee Faircloth Amelia Morgan Thomas* Brianna K. Hobson Erin Giddens Brooke Alexandra Thomas* Charles Scott Horne Tammy D. Gosier Ashleigh Martha Tillman Imani Hope Huffman Buck James Gray Danielle Corey Varn Jordan Marie Humbert Taylor Marie Griner Briana Caitlyn Waldo Tyler La’Baron Jackson Rachael Dara Groomes Tiara Pearl Walker Ciara Rae James Amanda Janette Gunnells Joshua Graham Waller* Maria Elizabeth Antonio Jesus Emily Christina Harless* Kierra Lashawn Ward Jeremy Wayne Johns* Meagan Rene Hooper Kimberly Cecile Williams Carla Verrine Johnson Tyler Kord Hunter Amy Sue Wilson Carlos Demetrius Johnson Tyra Danielle Hurst Alexis Rachelle Wright David Allen Johnson* Paige Alexis Huston Kathleen Yngayo Kameri Jamille Johnson MinYoung In Autumn Brianna Yokeley* Kelly Lauren Jones Ryan M. Isber Colleen Tara Marie Kavanaugh Nathan Lance Jarriel Ian Nichloas Kerstanski Chasity Javan Johnson COLLEGE OF THE ARTS Raven Antionique Kind Rico Jermaine Johnson Kendrick D. King Mallory Nicole King Bryce Anthony Adair Wilfred Gitau Kinuthia Tabatha Sue Lancianese Kameron Chedell Agee Bridgit Judith Lawhead Krista Danielle Leschke Alaina Blaire Alcock Dominic Andrew Ligon Yuanying Liang HyunJeong Bae Kaitlyn Michelle Linginfelter Justin Tyler Lipsey* LaJayda Patrice Banfield Jazmyn Kevon Marshall Jonathan Edward Little Sandra Patricia Barrios Andie Elizabeth McDaniel Jaycee Lauren Lott Tyler Quentin Begley Zykera Makiya McKnight Mary Virginia May* Nickolas Bell Deyanira Hernandez Mendez Teresa Angela May John Lowell Bickel Malcome Jamal Meyers Wendell Keith McCranie Shadia Shanice Black Alexandra Gillian Miale Caroline Deanne McKoy Keyannia Frances Brimah MarQuis R. Mitchel Mark Menjivar Shanel Lenay Brock Sarah Lynn Moore* Nikole Kristine Miller* Marsica Renae Burrow Brittany Marie Morales* Ashley Marie Mills Jose’ Israel Carrillo Silie’zar Tiandra Elisabeth Mundy Shemika Michelle Moss Elizabeth LeAnne Carter Nhan Van Nguyen Van Nguyen Christopher Anderson Carver Katherine Annette Ogletree Jarrod Kaleb Noviello Ashley Brooke Cheeks Ryan Matthew Patmore Damilola Shakirat Olarenwaju Austin Wayne Christopher Katrina MaryAnne Perez Grishmaben Patel Brendan Michael Collins* Aramis Rohan Phaire Megan Alece Patten Casey Lynn Daniel Leetavous Dyshun Pittman Kaitlyn Marie Permenter Detavian Kuamane Daniels Hunter Danielle Pope DM* Megan Lyn Powell Stefan Jarrell Daniely Tyler Ray Powell Sumer Shaye Powell* Matthew Kinney DeLoach Andrew Forrest Ragsdale Kelly Marion Prince Haiden Sayne Dela Cruz Olivia Kathryn Reich Christopher Jordan Purvis Autumn Diane Denmark* Derek Donnell Rhodes, Jr. Charlton Ann Reynolds LaDarius A. Dennison Tye’ D’kwom Richardson Siobhan Germaine Richardson Akerius Dixon Kennedy Brooke Robinson Xavier Rodriguez Emily Elizabeth Donaldson Nicholas Alexander Sanford Bonnie Jean Rogers James Clayton Edenfield Miahsje’ Kiara Scales
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 17 William Francis Schmieder Jazmin Nicole Serrano-Arce* Joseph Brennan Short Jamel Horaceous Shorter Nina Frances Singleton Allyson Paige Smith Crystal Lorita Smith Jae’Sean Shannon Sollie Avery Stephen Vaughn Meccod Stevens Jesse Christine Suda Amari Ayanni-Sheilanne Summerlin Hannah Tabrizi Brianna Nicole Terrell Shannon Jessica Thomas Taylor Marii Thomas Abigail Kathryn Trella Katie Elizabeth Veal Ansley Eva Vicknair Charles Eric Vinson Kenneth Anthony Washington Tashanna E. Whitehead Brady Alexander Whitehouse* Khambreal Khamion Williams Murphy Nicole Williams Katie Elizabeth Wilson Kira Keilani Wilson Hiu Fai Christina Wong
18 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY President’s Award for Academic Excellence The President’s Award for Academic Excellence is presented to the graduating student with the highest grade point average in each of VSU’s five colleges — College of Arts and Sciences, College of the College of the Arts Arts, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business Administration, and James L. and Dorothy H. Hunter Pope of Remerton, Dewar College of Education and Human Services. These students Georgia, is the recipient of the serve as the banner carrier for their respective colleges. Fall 2017 President’s Award for Academic Excellence for the College of Arts & Sciences College of the Arts at Valdosta State University. She graduates Erin Bridgeforth of summa cum laude with a Conyers, Georgia, is the Bachelor of Arts in art, a Bachelor recipient of the Fall 2017 of Arts in psychology, and an President’s Award for Academic Honors College Certificate. Excellence for the College of Arts and Sciences at Valdosta “It is hard to believe that my State University. She graduates undergraduate experience at with a Bachelor of Science in VSU is coming to an end,” she organizational leadership, with a said. “Part of me feels like I just minor in public administration. started because there are still lots of things I want to study, to “I am beyond thrilled to receive learn, to try, to do. I have had many opportunities to interweave my the President’s Award for passion for creative arts with my academic and research pursuits, and Academic Excellence for the I have been blessed with talented faculty, staff, and friends who have College of the Arts and Sciences supported me along the way.” at VSU and deeply honored to lead my fellow graduates at this As a student at VSU, Pope was a member of Sigma Alpha Pi: The year’s commencement ceremony,” she said. National Society of Leadership and Success, where she served as president, community service chairwoman, and success networking Bridgeforth previously attended Wiregrass Georgia Technical team coordinator; the Georgia Alpha chapter of Alpha Chi National College in Valdosta, Georgia, where she earned an Associate of Honor Society, where she served as president and secretary/treasurer; Applied Science in business administrative technology in 2011 the Honors Student Association, where she served as upperclassmen and an Associate of Applied Science in accounting in 2012. She representative and secretary; the Arts Guild, where she served as was awarded the school’s 2012 Georgia Occupational Award of secretary/treasurer; the Beta Tau chapter of Phi Kappa Phi, where she Leadership for her exemplary performance in her chosen field of served as student vice president; Dance Marathon, where she served study and inducted into the National Technical Honor Society. as director of external affairs; Golden Key International Honour Society; the Psychology Club; Psi Chi: The International Honor Bridgeforth entered VSU through the Pathways Program, an Society in Psychology; the College of the Arts Advisory Council; the initiative designed to increase the number of Georgians earning a Vice President for Student Affairs Student Advisory Committee; and four-year university degree by maximizing the transfer of credits more. from their respective Technical College System of Georgia institution of higher education. Pope’s commitment to academic, research, creative, and service excellence on campus, in the community, and around the world As a student at VSU, Bridgeforth was a regular on the Dean’s List resulted in her being named a Zell Miller Scholar and an Honors and a member of the Beta Tau chapter of The Honor Society of Phi Scholar four years in a row and earning the 2017, 2016, and 2015 Kappa Phi. She was also a Georgia HOPE (Helping Outstanding Outstanding Bachelor of Arts in Art Student Award from the Pupils Educationally) Scholar. Department of Art and Design; the 2016 Outstanding Student in the Arts Award from the College of the Arts; the 2016 Bartram Bridgeforth plans to return to VSU to pursue a Master of Public Award for Intellectual Exploration from the Honors College; the Administration, with a concentration in public sector management. 2016 President’s Choice Scholarship; 2016 Who’s Who Among She is the daughter of Erving Rogers Sr. of Valdosta, Georgia, and Students in American Universities and Colleges Award; the 2016- the late Mary Rogers. 2017 Tammy Lee Fortner Scholarship; 2015-2016 Hugh C. Bailey Family Scholarship; 2015-2016 Bernard Linger Fine Arts “… I envision myself having a productive and rewarding career Scholarship; 2014-2015 Alumni Association Endowment Fund working within the public sector,” she said. “My primary goal is to Scholarship for Legacy Students; 2014-2015 Sallie M. Hutchinson obtain a leadership role that will allow me to utilize my education, Scholarship; 2015 Service Incorporated in Artifact Award from the skills, and qualities ….”
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 19 Honors College; 2015 Spirit of Honors Scholars Award; the 2015 As a student at VSU, Mozzo was a member of the Honors Student Department of Art and Design Outstanding Student Award; 2014 Association, where she served as upperclassmen representative and Honors College Service Learning Award; and 2014 Honors Student vice president; Dance Marathon, where she served as operations Association Freshman of the Year Award. chairwoman, director of internal affairs, and overall director; Alpha Lambda Delta: National Honor Society for First-Year Students; the Pope earned second place honors at the 2017 Undergraduate Beta Tau chapter of Phi Kappa Phi; and Reade Hall Council, where Research Symposium Three-Minute Video Competition; a she served as president. She worked as a tutor at the Student Success merit award (printmaking) at the 19th annual VSU Student Art Center and for the Department of Mathematics, and she worked Competition; third place honors (printmaking) at the 13th annual off campus with ELEAD CRM. She served among a distinguished South Georgia College Art Competition; second place honors group of student leaders known as university ambassadors and (photography) at the 12th annual South Georgia College Art represented VSU at events focused on future and current students, as Competition; and third place honors (photography) at the 44th well as alumni and donors. annual Southern Regional Honors Council Conference’s juried art competition. Her work was published twice in VSU’s Odradek. Mozzo’s commitment to academic, research, and service excellence on campus, in the community, and around the world resulted in Pope studied abroad in Ireland and the Czech Republic, where her being named a Zell Miller Scholar and an Honors Scholar four she conducted research on color perception and compared it to years in a row and earning the 2015-2016 Hugh C. Bailey Family American university students. She led a workshop on conducting Scholarship, the Bartram Award for Intellectual Exploration from research abroad and presented research at the 2017 Southeastern the Honors College, and the Maggie W. Bridges and Michael A. Psychological Association Annual Meeting. She presented additional Stoddard Scholarship. She also earned the 2016 Gerald Petrella research at the 2017, 2016, 2015, and 2015 Georgia College Honors Award for Outstanding Student in Mathematics Education. Council Conference; the 2016 Undergraduate Research Symposium; the 2016, 2015, and 2014 Southern Regional Honors Council Mozzo presented research at the 2017 and 2016 Georgia Collegiate Conference; and the 13th annual Art History Forum. Honors Council Conference and the 2016 Southern Regional Honors Council Conference. She was recognized during the 2015- Pope plans to pursue a career as an art therapist and is currently 2016 Student Employee of the Year Awards Ceremony for her work applying to graduate programs across the United States. She is the with the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science daughter of Jessica Pope. After graduation, Mozzo plans to teach at a South Georgia middle school and continue her own education by pursuing a master’s degree in instructional technology, followed by an education James L. & Dorothy H. Dewar specialist degree. College of Education & Human Services “My career goal is to touch the lives of as many children as possible Caitlin Mozzo of Adel, during my teaching career and to arm them with an education that Georgia, is the recipient of the will benefit them for the rest of their lives,” she said. “I chose to go Fall 2017 President’s Award into education because there is nothing more important than leaving for Academic Excellence for your mark on the world, and as a teacher you are able to leave a the James L. and Dorothy H. mark in the heart of every child that enters your classroom.” Dewar College of Education and Human Services at Valdosta Mozzo is the daughter of Ronald Mozzo Jr. and Lori Mozzo. She is State University. She graduates originally from Deptford, New Jersey. with a Bachelor of Science in Education, with a focus in middle grades mathematics and language arts, and an Honors College Certificate.
“It is an honor to receive this award for the James L. and Dorothy H. Dewar College of Education and Human Services,” she said. “Being chosen to lead my fellow graduates into the commencement area is humbling, and I am grateful to be able to lead us all in celebrating our achievements while at Valdosta State University.”
20 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY Harley Langdale, Jr. College of Business Hanna plans to continue his education at VSU in Spring 2018 and Administration pursue a Master of Accountancy. His ultimate goal is to become a certified public accountant and to work in public accounting, where David Hanna of Valdosta, he believes he will be “better able to serve my clients.” He is the son Georgia, is the recipient of the of Joseph and Gezel Hanna. Fall 2017 President’s Award for Academic Excellence for the Harley Langdale Jr. College College of Nursing & Health Sciences of Business Administration at Valdosta State University. Amelia Thomas of Loganville, He graduates with a Bachelor Georgia, is the recipient of the of Business Administration Fall 2017 President’s Award in accounting and an Honors for Academic Excellence for College Certificate. the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Valdosta State “It is such an honor to represent University. She graduates magna the Harley Langdale Jr. College cum laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration and of Science in Nursing and an all of my fellow classmates in the Honors College Certificate. fall commencement ceremony,” he said. “I am extremely honored to have received this honor from the As a student at VSU, Hanna was a member of the Institute of university,” she said. “I could Management Accountants, where he served as president; Beta not be more excited and proud Gamma Sigma: The International Business Honor Society, where to be able to carry the banner to he served as president; the Business Student Advisory Council; the represent the College of Nursing Beta Tau chapter of Phi Kappa Phi; Alpha Lambda Delta: National and Health Sciences at the commencement ceremony.” Honor Society for First-Year Students; the Valdosta chapter of the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants; and Sigma Alpha As a student at VSU, Thomas was a member of Sigma Tau Delta Pi: The National Society of Leadership and Success, where he served International Honor Society of Nursing; the VSU Club Swim as a member of the executive board and earned the National Engaged Team, where she also served as president; the Valdosta Association Leader Award in 2017. of Nursing Students, which supports community-wide health initiatives through service learning; and CrossPointe Church College Hanna’s commitment to academic, research, and service excellence Ministry, where she volunteered in the nursery. She served among on campus, in the community, and around the world resulted in a distinguished group of student leaders known as university him being named a Zell Miller Scholar four years in a row and in ambassadors and represented VSU at events focused on future and earning the 2017 Outstanding Senior Accounting Major Award current students, as well as alumni and donors. and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants Academic Excellence Award from the Department of Accounting; the 2017 Thomas’s commitment to academic, research, and service excellence Clare Philips Martin Scholarship; a $10,000 merit-based scholarship on campus, in the community, and around the world resulted in her from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; the being named a Zell Miller Scholar four years in a row and earning 2017 Institute of Management Accountants Memorial Education the Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarship and the Dorothy Cobb Levy Foundation Scholarship; the 2017 Georgia Society of Certified Scholarship. Public Accountants Coastal Chapter Scholarship; the 2016 Georgia Society of Certified Public Accounts Georgia Chapter Scholarship; Thomas has already secured a job through the nurse residency a 2016-2017 Georgia Gulf Sulfur Scholarship; the 2015-2016 and program in the oncology unit at Northside Hospital in Atlanta. 2016-2017 Ty Cobb Educational Foundation Scholarship; and a After gaining hands-on experience in the healthcare field, she hopes 2015-2016 Colquitt EMC Scholarship. to eventually work as a travel nurse and in a neonatal intensive care unit. She is the daughter of Julie Daniels and Ken Thomas. Hanna won first place in the 2017 Institute of Management Accounts Manuscript Competition, writing about his experiences with the organization. He volunteers with Second Harvest of South Georgia Inc., the leading hunger-relief organization in the region and the second largest food bank in Georgia. He also volunteers with Valdosta-Lowndes County Habitat for Humanity, an organization that gives families a chance to thrive and succeed by building homes. He is a member and lector at St. John Catholic Church in Valdosta.
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 21 The 1906 Society
The 1906 Society is a student giving organization that is dedicated to the continued growth and development of VSU through individual gifts from seniors and graduate students. Graduating seniors who make a contribution of any size to any area of VSU are recognized at commencement for their participation.
Alaina Blaire Alcock Colleen Kavanaugh Stephanie Ann Arnold Shaquira Kearson Angela B. Bass Brandon T. Keller John Lowell Bickel Brent William Kyzar Kennedy Si’mone Blount Tabatha Sue Lancianese Miles A. Brown Juliette Yvonne Lokey Seth Cianci Brown Michael Jerome McCall Shantia M. Brown Alexis Vashunta McCutchin Heather Corina Burns Alexandra Gillian Miale Kory Durell Burns Nikole Kristine Miller Narsica R. Burron Kerry Morris Ashley Danielle Butts Mistie Myers Khalfini Chastang Kishonna O. Nance Ronica Clark Quynh Nguyen Myrese Pierr Cobb Nicole Njoku Michelle Hall Cottle Tara Seago O’Steen Garth Anthony Daley Raymond Palmer Grace Lenora Daniels Bridget M. Perkins LaDarius A. Dennison Aramis Rohan Phaire Elizabeth Britanny Digiammarino Hunter Danielle Pope Jordan Danielle Dunn Megan Lyn Powell Jenae’ Katherine Durham Ashlie Marie Prain Dominique Angelica Evans Jill Robinson Kristina Jeanine Evans Dorrie Romero Mikayle Alesa Foster Antonio Tomas Rowden Alexis J. Frazier Abigail Kathryn Schwartz Maria Elizabeth Galvez Stephanie Frazier Seay Lisa Cecilia Garcia Jamel Horaceous Shorter Briana P. Goolsby Haley N. Simmons Brandon Jerel Grace Shabri Izhae Simpson Kandis Denise Hall Jasmine Andrin Sisk Alexis S. Harden Allyson Paige Smith Denise Marie Hartley-Joseph James Robert Stogin Caitlyn Sue Heesh Olivia Anne Studdard Inde Faith Herrington Amari Ayanni Summerlin Alyssa M. Hickey Patricia Ann Sumner Meagan Renee Hooper Brianna Nicole Terrell Daneil Khalill Hudson Jasmine M’shay Tharpe Brittany Lynnette Hughes Danielle C. Varn Rhesa Lee Hyde Nakshi Samip Vyas Chelsea Denise Jackson Destin Heather Wardwell Yalonda E. Jackson Tashanna Elexis Whitehead Cameron E. Johnson Dairmid Kenyatta Williams Theodore Chase Johnson
22 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY Valdosta State University The Mace
Founded in 1906, Valdosta State University celebrated its 100th The mace has evolved through the years anniversary in 2006. The VSU Centennial was an opportunity from a “hand combat” weapon of the to appreciate and honor the living legacy of its founders. These middle ages, employed by archers and other individuals not only rallied public resources for what would become unmounted warriors, to a club-shaped staff a major regional university, but they also established ongoing used as a symbol of authority by legislative, partnerships for both continued community and private support to religious, academic, and other assemblies the university. to give a ceremonial character to official functions. VSU, a comprehensive university of the University System of Georgia, was established as an institution of higher learning. The The Valdosta State University Alumni institution officially opened in 1913 and was called South Georgia Association commissioned Hollis Barnett, State Normal College. Between the years of 1913 and 1950, the VSU professor of art, to design and sculpt institution underwent two name changes. On July 1, 1993, the the mace. It was first used at the June 12, Board of Regents authorized Valdosta State College to become 1994 commencement ceremony presided Valdosta State University. over by President Hugh C. Bailey.
Today VSU’s enrollment is approximately 11,300 students. The The design of the Valdosta State University mace is based on the university maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1 with more dome of West Hall. It was sculpted by hand in wax and cast in than 600 highly qualified, talented and motivated faculty. VSU has bronze using the lost wax casting process. Black onyx and red six colleges: the College of the Arts; the College of Arts & Sciences; carnelian stones, representing the University’s colors, are set into the the Harley Langdale, Jr., College of Business Administration; the bronze. The shaft is carved in a dark mahogany. The mahogany base, James L. & Dorothy H. Dewar College of Education & Human is engraved with the University’s logo. Services; the College of Nursing & Health Sciences; and the Honors College. Degrees are offered at all levels, from the associate to the The mace is carried by a VSU faculty marshal for ceremonial doctorate. occasions.
The University consists of two major campus areas, north and main campus, located less than a mile apart as well as numerous satellite The President’s Chain of Office facilities. In all, 87 buildings house the varied activities of the University. The President’s Chain of Office is based on the university seal and a rendition of West Hall, the centerpiece VSU Alumni Association of VSU’s campus. The antiqued Just as students are urged to become involved in extracurricular sterling silver medallion, crafted by activities throughout their university careers, we would like to Medallic Art Co., made its debut in remind you that you are just as important to VSU after you graduate 2008. and leave campus. The first use of the seal occurred in The Valdosta State University Alumni Association strives to promote 1955 and was used until the 1960s, the welfare of the University and its alumni by increasing the interest when it was no longer featured on of its members in the University, its students, and in each other. The official documents. In 1987, the seal reappeared as a simple image of Alumni Association is composed of more than 60,000 members. the West Hall Dome and Star with “Valdosta State College; Valdosta, Georgia; 1906” around the outside of the image. In 1992, shadows The Association has no dues, but urges Alumni to participate in and palm leaves were added to enhance the image. The seal was last the Annual Fund to support VSU and to further the Association’s modified in 1993 to reflect VSU’s university status. programs and services. The annual meeting of the Association is held during Homecoming each year.
Alumni communications include the VSU alumni website and online community, and various mailings and e-mail messages throughout the year.
To ensure you receive the most up to date information from Alumni Relations, be sure to provide us with your current contact information by calling 800.464.3638.
224TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | 23 The Code of Academic Costume Board of Regents
An 1894 conference of representatives of leading American The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia was institutions adopted a uniform code of academic dress. The code was created in 1931 as a part of a reorganization of Georgia’s state revised by the American Council on Education in 1932 and again in government. With this act, public higher education in Georgia was 1959. unified for the first time under a single governing and management authority. The governor appoints members of the Board to a seven Black gowns recommended for use have certain characteristics. The year term and regents may be reappointed to subsequent terms by a bachelor’s gown has pointed sleeves, the master’s oblong sleeves sitting governor. Regents donate their time and expertise to serve the and the doctor’s gown has bell‑shaped sleeves. The bachelor and state through their governance of the University System of Georgia master gowns have no trimmings. The doctor’s gown is faced down – the position is a voluntary one without financial remuneration. the front with black velvet with three bars of the same across the Today the Board of Regents is composed of 19 members, five of sleeves. The velvet may be the color distinction of the subject to whom are appointed from the state-at-large, and one from each of which the pertains, agreeing in color with the edging of the hood. the state’s 14 congressional districts. The Board elects a chancellor who serves as its chief executive officer and the chief administrative For all academic purposes, including trimmings of doctor’s gowns, officer of the University System. The Board oversees the 30 colleges edging of hoods and tassels of caps, colors associated with different and universities that comprise the University System of Georgia, subjects are: Agriculture, Maize; Arts, Letters, Humanities, White; Skidaway Institute of Oceanography and The Georgia Public Library Commerce, Accountancy, Business, Drab; Economics, Copper; System. Education, Light Blue; Fine Arts, Brown; Journalism, Crimson; Law, Purple; Library Science, Lemon; Music, Pink; Nursing, Dr. Steve Wrigley Apricot; Speech, Silver Gray; Philosophy, Dark Blue; Physical Chancellor Education, Sage Green; Public Administration, Peacock Blue; Public Health, Salmon Pink; Science, Golden Yellow; Social Work, Citron; Board of Regents Theology, Scarlet. C. Dean Alford, P.E. w. Paul Bowers Rutledge A. Griffin, Jr. c. Thomas Hopkins, Jr., MD The bachelor’s hood length is three feet, the master’s is three and James M. Hull Donald M. Leebern, Jr. one‑half feet; and the doctor’s is four feet. The hood for the latter has panels at the side. The hoods are lined with the official color or Laura Marsh Doreen Stiles Poitevint colors of the college or university which conferred the ; more than Neil L. Pruitt, Jr. Sarah-Elizabeth Reed one color is shown by the division of the field color. Sachin Shailendra E. Scott Smith Kessel Stelling, Jr. benjamin J. Tarbutton, III The hood binding or edging is velvet or velveteen, in widths of Richard L. Tucker Thomas Rogers Wade two, three and five inches for the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctor’s Larry Walker Don L. Waters s respectively. The color of the edging should be distinctive of the subject to which the pertains. The black academic cap is Philip A. Wilheit, Sr. usually shaped like a mortar board. The tassel is black or the color appropriate to the subject to which the pertains. The only exception is the doctor’s cap which may have its tassel of gold thread.
(Prepared by Louis E. Schmier, Professor of History)
24 | VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY