The University of Tulsa Honors Graduates of the Class of 2026 with Inspiring Commencement Ceremonies
The University of Tulsa recently held its commencement ceremonies for the Class of 2026, celebrating the accomplishments of more than 1,100 graduates in the Donald W. Reynolds Center over the weekend. The ceremonies, spread across Friday and Saturday, marked a significant milestone for the university community as friends, family, and faculty gathered to honor the hard work and achievements of the students.
On Saturday, more than 700 undergraduate students received their degrees, while the previous day's ceremonies included over 400 candidates from the Graduate School and the College of Law. Notably, 706 bachelor's degrees were awarded to students who benefited from the unique CaneCareers Job Placement Guarantee offered at UTulsa. This program has proved instrumental in securing job placements for graduates, with many soon starting their careers at prestigious organizations such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Northrop Grumman, among others. Additionally, several graduates will further their education in esteemed graduate programs or take steps towards medical and law schools, highlighting the diverse paths available to them post-commencement.
The commencement ceremonies were highlighted by a keynote address from alumnus Julius Tennon, a well-known actor and producer. Tennon, who graduated from UTulsa in 1978 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, shared his journey from being a student-athlete on the Golden Hurricane football team to establishing a successful career in entertainment. He co-founded JuVee Productions with his wife, acclaimed actress Viola Davis, and has remained connected to his alma mater through mentorship programs.
In his inspiring speech, Tennon urged graduates to approach life with purposeful intent and compassion, emphasizing the importance of love and leadership in today's world. He stated, "What the world needs now is love. We need you, the future leaders, who will do the hard work to inspire change. Ignorance aligned with power is the most ferocious enemy that justice can have." His poignant words resonated with the audience, reinforcing the hope and motivation that the newest graduates will carry into their future endeavors.
During the ceremonies, special recognition was given to Julius Tennon and Ellen Adelson, a former member of UTulsa's Board of Trustees, who both received honorary doctorates. The Graduate School ceremony awarded 242 master's degrees and 78 doctoral degrees, consolidating the university's commitment to academic excellence.
In her remarks, Marcia MacLeod, chair of the board, expressed confidence in the graduates' preparedness for the challenges ahead, stating, "Whether your path leads to a new career opportunity, continued study, research or service to your community, we are confident that your time at UTulsa has prepared you well."
For those who missed out on attending, the entirety of the commencement ceremonies was made available for viewing on YouTube via The University of Tulsa's commencement page, allowing everyone to share in the celebration of these remarkable accomplishments. As the graduates embark on their future journeys, there is a sense of pride in the strength and determination they possess, poised to make a significant impact in their respective fields and communities.
On Saturday, more than 700 undergraduate students received their degrees, while the previous day's ceremonies included over 400 candidates from the Graduate School and the College of Law. Notably, 706 bachelor's degrees were awarded to students who benefited from the unique CaneCareers Job Placement Guarantee offered at UTulsa. This program has proved instrumental in securing job placements for graduates, with many soon starting their careers at prestigious organizations such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Northrop Grumman, among others. Additionally, several graduates will further their education in esteemed graduate programs or take steps towards medical and law schools, highlighting the diverse paths available to them post-commencement.
The commencement ceremonies were highlighted by a keynote address from alumnus Julius Tennon, a well-known actor and producer. Tennon, who graduated from UTulsa in 1978 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, shared his journey from being a student-athlete on the Golden Hurricane football team to establishing a successful career in entertainment. He co-founded JuVee Productions with his wife, acclaimed actress Viola Davis, and has remained connected to his alma mater through mentorship programs.
In his inspiring speech, Tennon urged graduates to approach life with purposeful intent and compassion, emphasizing the importance of love and leadership in today's world. He stated, "What the world needs now is love. We need you, the future leaders, who will do the hard work to inspire change. Ignorance aligned with power is the most ferocious enemy that justice can have." His poignant words resonated with the audience, reinforcing the hope and motivation that the newest graduates will carry into their future endeavors.
During the ceremonies, special recognition was given to Julius Tennon and Ellen Adelson, a former member of UTulsa's Board of Trustees, who both received honorary doctorates. The Graduate School ceremony awarded 242 master's degrees and 78 doctoral degrees, consolidating the university's commitment to academic excellence.
In her remarks, Marcia MacLeod, chair of the board, expressed confidence in the graduates' preparedness for the challenges ahead, stating, "Whether your path leads to a new career opportunity, continued study, research or service to your community, we are confident that your time at UTulsa has prepared you well."
For those who missed out on attending, the entirety of the commencement ceremonies was made available for viewing on YouTube via The University of Tulsa's commencement page, allowing everyone to share in the celebration of these remarkable accomplishments. As the graduates embark on their future journeys, there is a sense of pride in the strength and determination they possess, poised to make a significant impact in their respective fields and communities.
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