News Summary
Lander University held its 171st commencement ceremony, celebrating the graduation of hundreds of students across various programs. Graduates received valuable insights from speaker William H. Floyd, III, emphasizing career readiness with lessons on goal setting, professional preparation, and collaboration. Notable alumni shared their experiences and future aspirations, highlighting the supportive community fostered at Lander. The ceremony concluded with an emotional farewell as graduates transitioned to alumni status, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys.
Greenwood, South Carolina – Lander University held its 171st commencement ceremony on May 7, 2025, celebrating the graduation of hundreds of students across various academic programs. As graduates prepared to enter the workforce, they received important insights from commencement speaker William H. Floyd, III, the executive director of the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce. Floyd highlighted four essential lessons for career preparedness: awareness of career opportunities, goal setting, professional preparation, and the importance of collaboration.
This year’s graduating class included notable alumni such as Latajarae Boone, who earned her MBA and described returning to campus as a reunion with a supportive family. Boone’s education at Lander helped her gain confidence in taking on leadership roles in her career. Other graduates shared similar sentiments, reflecting on their educational journeys and the experiences that shaped their time at the university.
The ceremony recognized a diverse group of graduates. Xavier Holley, a computer science major from Aiken, fondly remembered his time playing intramural basketball. Julia Werner, a music education major, is set to begin her teaching career in Dorchester County. Taelyn Calwile graduated with a degree in child development and plans to pursue an online master’s program in social work. Silas Schiera, a music performance major from Greenwood, intends to embark on a biking trip post-graduation.
Among the graduates, Emily Anne and Charlie Beiers, two-thirds of a set of triplets, celebrated their achievement together. They credited much of their success to their active involvement in golf, student advisory roles, and honor societies during their time at Lander. La’Kerria Greene, who graduated in middle-level education, expressed immense pride in her accomplishment, inspired by her mother’s career as a teacher.
In the Media and Communications program, Adam Love graduated with aspirations to become a sports reporter, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead. Anabele Budreau, a psychology graduate, secured a position with the Department of Justice. Lucia Solano, who earned her degree in International Studies, articulated the profound significance of her diploma for her family, as she is the first in her family to graduate from college.
The commencement ceremony was characterized by a strong sense of community, with faculty and staff cheering as graduates made their farewell walk. The event concluded with the traditional tassel-turning, symbolizing the graduates’ transition to alumni status. Family, friends, staff, and fellow students came together, creating an emotional and celebratory atmosphere that will be remembered by the graduates as they embark on their new journeys.
Lander University continues to play a significant role in shaping the lives of its students, providing them with the skills and experiences necessary for success in their future careers. This year’s ceremony not only celebrated academic achievements but also highlighted the supportive environment fostered within the university community.
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Additional Resources
- Lander University Commencement 2025 – GoLaurens
- Pinning Ceremony for Education Graduates – Index Journal
- Lander University Commencement Set for December 12 – GoLaurens
- Wikipedia: Lander University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College
