News Summary
Lander University held its commencement ceremony, celebrating around 550 graduates from diverse backgrounds who received their bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Noteworthy achievements included Rebekah Logan, who earned the Thayer Award for having the highest GPA in the graduating class. The event was graced by the presence of faculty and staff who cheered on the graduates as they prepared to embark on their next academic and professional journeys.
Greenwood, South Carolina – Lander University proudly celebrated the graduation of approximately 550 students in the Class of 2025 during its commencement ceremony held on May 7, 2025, at the Finis Horne Arena. These new alumni received their bachelor’s and master’s degrees, signifying a significant milestone in their academic journeys. Graduates hailed from diverse backgrounds, representing not only South Carolina but various states across the nation and around the globe.
The ceremony recognized the hard work of each graduate, with several students standing out for their academic achievements. Among them was Rebekah Logan from Greenwood, who received the esteemed Thayer Award, honoring her as the standout student with the highest GPA in the graduating class. Logan graduated Summa Cum Laude with two degrees: a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Bachelor of Science in Music, both achieved with a perfect 4.0 GPA. She plans to continue her education at the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University and has previously worked as a surgery assistant.
Graduates from towns and cities throughout South Carolina also achieved remarkable academic success. Notable graduates included:
- Samantha Cain from Clinton, SC, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and Child Development.
- Audrianna Grace Farmer from Clinton, SC, who received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.
- Bryce Andrew McKee from Clinton, SC, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Cum Laude.
- Olandria Kemiya Payne from Clinton, SC, also graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
- Ashley Elizabeth Shiflet from Clinton, SC, earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.
- Jackson C. Smith from Clinton, SC, achieved a Bachelor of Arts in English.
- Traylor Kennedy Calwile from Fountain Inn, SC, earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Golden L.
- Taelyn Lyric Calwile from Fountain Inn, SC, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Education and Child Development.
- Tycen Tariq Calwile from Fountain Inn, SC, received a Bachelor of Science in Media and Communication.
- Gavin B. Maybach from Fountain Inn, SC, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity.
- Jessica Avila from Laurens, SC, earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health, Summa Cum Laude.
- Alicia Danielle Dixon from Laurens, SC, graduated with a Master of Education in Teaching and Learning.
- Robert Ethan Leopard from Laurens, SC, earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Summa Cum Laude.
- Roni Noffz Bennett from Laurens, SC, received a Master of Science in Nursing Clinical Nurse Leader.
- Halie Michelle Pearson from Laurens, SC, graduated with a Master of Education in Teaching and Learning.
- Nadine Elissa Selvaggi from Laurens, SC, earned a Master of Business Administration.
- Trinity A’Dajha Tribble-Daniel from Laurens, SC, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health.
The commencement speaker, William Floyd, addressed the importance of being aware of career opportunities and fostering collaboration among peers and professionals. His remarks resonated well with the graduates, many of whom expressed feelings of pride and excitement about their achievements and upcoming endeavors.
Faculty and staff members of Lander University were present to support and cheer on the graduates, adding to the jubilant atmosphere of the ceremony. The event not only marked the end of one chapter for the graduates but also the beginning of new journeys as they step out into their respective fields armed with their education and experiences acquired at Lander University.
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Additional Resources
- Lander University Announces Spring 2025 Graduates
- Wikipedia: Lander University
- Greenwood Student Wins Thayer Award at Lander
- Google Search: Lander University Thayer Award
- Lander University Commencement 2025
- Google Scholar: Lander University
- A Walk to Remember: Lander Class of 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: William Floyd
- Lander University Commencement Set for December 12
- Google News: Lander University Commencement
