On May 10, 2024, undergraduate and graduate students received their diplomas from Piedmont University. More than 2000 friends and family members attended to proudly watch as graduates shook hands with President Marshall Criser and Board Chair Gus Arrendale. As is the tradition, tassels were turned signifying the hard work and dedication it took to complete each graduate’s degree.
The undergraduate ceremony was held at 9 a.m., followed by the graduate service at 1 p.m. on the University Quad at the Demorest campus. 212 undergraduate students, which included 89 first-generation students, and 91 graduate students, including Masters, EdS, and Doctorate degrees received their diplomas.
Senator Bo Hatchett, Georgia Senate District 50, delivered a message of congratulations and encouragement to the new graduates as the event’s guest speaker.
Several awards were given during the ceremony, including the Michael and Emily Robertson Kindness Award, presented to Dante Wilson for his acts of kindness to others in the Piedmont University community. John Matrona received the H.M. Stewart Sr. Award of Excellence, which is given annually to the top honor graduate of Piedmont University.
In addition, Dr. Elaine Bailey, a professor in the College of Arts & Sciences, was named the Outstanding Undergraduate Advisor Award winner. Dr. Katrina Short, also from the College of Arts & Sciences, was awarded the Outstanding Graduate Advisor Award.
Professor Mark Evans, College of Education, was honored with the Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award. This annual award is presented to an outstanding undergraduate faculty member who demonstrates strong academic skills in the classroom and provides leadership and support in other areas of campus life.
