OSU awards degrees to nearly 3,000 graduates

Friday, May 7, 2010

Photos of Commencement ceremonies can be downloaded at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ostatenews/sets/72157623894923045/

Nearly 3,000 undergraduate and graduate degrees were awarded to Oklahoma State University students during five ceremonies today and Friday in Stillwater at Gallagher-Iba Arena.  In addition to the graduates, OSU alumni and longtime supporters Frank and Carol Morsani of Tampa, Florida, were awarded honorary doctorates.

The Honorary Doctor of Education degrees were presented to the couple with the support of the OSU Mathematics, Science and Occupational Education Faculty in the OSU College of Education. These are just the 17th and 18th honorary doctorates awarded in the university’s 120-year history.  

“OSU is proud to recognize these two individuals who have brought tremendous honor and distinction to their alma mater through their business success and their lifelong commitment to leadership, philanthropy, service to society and incredible support of this university,” OSU President Burns Hargis said.

Hargis delivered remarks during Saturday’s three undergraduate ceremonies. Hargis told the graduates, “Don’t let money trump your passion. If you wake up everyday pursuing your passion, you will be rich.”

Hargis concluded the ceremony by telling OSU’s newest alumni members, “Keep OSU in your hearts and a smile on your face.”

In addition to Hargis’ remarks, a 10-minute video was shown during the undergraduate ceremonies.  The video was a highlight of the graduating seniors’ time at OSU and featured three groups of graduates talking about their memories as students.

Three undergraduate ceremonies were held Saturday, followed by an evening hooding ceremony for the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Science. Master’s and doctoral degree ceremonies were held Friday evening in Gallagher-Iba Arena.  

The university estimates 60 percent of its graduates choose to stay in Oklahoma to work and live.  Just another example of how OSU and its graduates continue the land-grant mission of outreach by sharing their higher education with the communities throughout Oklahoma.

Today’s graduates join more than 200,000 OSU alumni, including world, national and state leaders; renowned business leaders, educators, health and wellness practitioners, entertainers, and sports figures.