#United States #Lakeland #Florida Southern College #Honorary Doctorate #Rondé Barber

Celebrating a Historic Commencement at Florida Southern College

On May 3, 2025, Florida Southern College made history by graduating its largest cohort to date, with 580 graduates receiving their degrees in a ceremony that marked a significant milestone for the institution. The highlight of the event was the presence of NFL legend Rondé Barber, who not only addressed the graduates but was also awarded the honorary title of Doctor of Humane Letters. This acknowledgment recognized Barber's remarkable career in professional football and his continuous efforts to contribute positively to society.

Honorary Doctorate for a Hall of Famer

Rondé Barber's journey in the NFL began when he was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he spent his entire 16-year career. His achievements include winning Super Bowl XXXVII and earning a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023. Barber's accolades, such as being selected to the Pro Bowl five times and leading the Buccaneers in interceptions, cement his legacy in the sport. Beyond football, Barber's influence has extended to various community initiatives. As General Chairman of Copperhead Charities, he is deeply involved in local charitable efforts, supporting programs like Habitat for Humanity and The First Tee of Tampa Bay.

An Inspiring Commencement Speech

During the commencement ceremony, Barber delivered a powerful speech focused on integrative values, emphasizing the importance of leadership, integrity, and leaving a lasting legacy. His message resonated with graduates from diverse backgrounds, reminding them of their potential impact on society as they step into new chapters of their lives.

Recognizing Student Achievements

While Barber's address was a focal point, the ceremony also celebrated outstanding student achievements. Senior speaker Molly Kennedy, a marine biology major, discussed resilience, while Haley Thomassy, recognized as a President's Scholar, received accolades for her academic and athletic endeavors. Erick Tran, who graduated with a dual degree in accounting, exemplified student leadership as he was honored with the 2025 Honor Walk award.

Furthermore, the event recognized the contributions of faculty and staff to the academic community, with the Miller Faculty Award being awarded to Alex Ortiz from the communication department, and the FSC Omicron Delta Kappa Circle Award presented to Professor Katherine Upshaw.

A Word from the President

The ceremony, which was also the inaugural spring commencement for President Jeremy P. Martin, featured words of encouragement and pride. Dr. Martin highlighted the graduates' accomplishments, including their acceptance into esteemed graduate programs and their roles as future leaders in various fields. With 124 graduates achieving summa cum laude honors, the ceremony was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Florida Southern College community.

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1883, Florida Southern College is the oldest private college in Florida, known for its commitment to academic excellence across over 70 undergraduate and various graduate programs. The college takes pride in its impressive faculty-to-student ratio and is recognized nationally for its vibrant campus culture. The institution’s achievements continue to shine, as evidenced by its high rankings in various categories by U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review.

In conclusion, the 2025 commencement at Florida Southern College was not just a celebration of academic accomplishment but also a pivotal moment that intertwined sports, education, and community service, inspiring a new generation of leaders.