On December 15, Oglethorpe celebrated the hard work and commitment of students who satisfied degree requirements during the fall 2023 semester.
The spring commencement ceremony in May is typically when students are invited back to campus to commemorate their accomplishments. This year, professor of Economics Dr. Peter Kower, joined forces across academic divisions and staff departments to start something new.
“Every spring, the Economics Club hosts a year-end party to celebrate graduating seniors. Invariably, our fall graduates are not able to join us – as they are busy on the road to making a living… A fall reception was a way to ensure that our students in Economics, the Hammack School of Business, and their peers across campus could be recognized,” said Dr. Kower.
Nearly 25 students across varying majors and their families attended this celebration. Attendees heard words of encouragement from members of the Alumni Board, current faculty, and Oglethorpe President Kathryn McClymond.
“Being recognized during a fall reception was very special,” said Kirsten Carroll ’24. “It made me feel like Oglethorpe truly cherishes all graduates rather than just those who graduate in the spring. Meeting President McClymond and having the opportunity to speak with her was such an honor, and I’m so grateful for all the alumni who spoke as well.”
Carroll now joins her parents, David Carroll ’97 and Michelle B. Carroll ’97, as a member of the Oglethorpe Alumni Association.
“My parents have been telling me since day one of freshman year that it’s important to not be so hard on myself when it comes to school because college is about finding your independence and enjoying that journey.” This journey will continue as Carroll plans to go into the film industry and pursue her writing career by becoming a screenwriter.
Although many started their freshman year at Oglethorpe as COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic, these first graduates of the Class of 2024 persevered. Each graduate is also welcome back on campus to walk across the stage during Commencement on Saturday, May 18, 2024. They will be joined by hundreds of their peers who will complete their degrees this spring.
