The 2024 Fall Commencement is held at Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, Arkansas – Around 2,000 students from Arkansas State made a significant advancement in their futures as they were awarded their degrees, marking the occasion with celebrations alongside their families.

On Saturday, Dec. 14, First National Bank Arena welcomed thousands of attendees for the 2024 A-State Fall commencement ceremony.

Jennifer Bush participated in the ceremony and earned her master’s degree in public administration.

“After two years of school, a full-time job, and a family, I feel a sense of freedom and success, which makes me really excited,” Bush expressed.

Students such as Darrell Robinson traveled from outside the area to participate in the in-person graduation ceremony.

“I arrived from Washington D.C. last night, drove in from Memphis this morning, and as a kid from Jackson, Mississippi, I’m thankful for the chance Arkansas State has given me to finish my masters,” Robinson stated. “I’m truly delighted to be here; I have family in the area, and it’s simply an incredible feeling this morning.”

Emanuel Cazano from Jonesboro served as the student speaker. He earned a degree in biological sciences.

“As you cross this stage today, pause to acknowledge this accomplishment, but also prepare to move toward your next beginning, whether that means launching your career, furthering your education, or venturing down a new path.” “Be mindful and concentrate on each moment as it arrives,” Cazano stated.

Graduates such as McKenzie Robinson and Monica Riggs expressed that achieving this milestone would have been impossible without the support they received.

“It’s unbelievable because it feels like I just finished high school yesterday, and I truly believe it’s a significant achievement to recognize how far I’ve progressed,” Robinson remarked. “The journey would have certainly been challenging without the support of those around me, as they were integral to my college experience and helped me navigate through it all.”

“I have a tremendous amount of support. My parents, husband, and child were all there for me, and it was incredible that my in-laws also showed up. It’s truly amazing to have such a strong support system,” Riggs expressed.

The graduates are set to embark on the next chapter of their lives.

“I aim to graduate from grad school, which is quite different from my major; my goal is to become an occupational therapist.” “I want to pursue that and travel from there,” Robinson expressed.

“I’m looking forward to the possibility of receiving an early Christmas gift by getting accepted into med school. If that doesn’t happen, I’ll continue to wait and pursue my dream of becoming a doctor,” Cazano expressed.

“Seeing so many Red Wolves graduate this morning is incredible, and I’m truly grateful to be here,” Robinson expressed.