UVA Wise Commencement Celebrates Class of 2024, Awards First Master’s Degrees

On Saturday, May 11, members of the University of Virginia’s College at Wise’s Class of 2024 graduated in the presence of friends, family members, faculty and their fellow classmates. The ceremony took place at 10 a.m. at David J. Prior Convocation Center. About 230 graduates crossed the stage, earning either a bachelor of arts, bachelor of science or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. And for the first time in the College’s history, 14 students were awarded their Master of Education degree. 

“Class of 2024, you are truly special. You have shown up for your community by attending campus events en masse, rebuilding clubs and organizations following the COVID-19 pandemic and helping host some of the most successful local community events in years. Your loyalty to be there for one another and our community will serve you well in your future,” said UVA Wise Chancellor Donna P. Henry.

Chancellor Henry then introduced University of Virginia Board of Visitors Rector Robert D. Hardie, who wished the graduates well. 

University of Virginia President James E. Ryan also encouraged graduates, saying, “Be curious, not judgmental. When Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia, his hope was to prepare students to be citizen leaders. That remains our goal today and remains my hope for all of you.”

Marcia A. Gilliam, UVA Wise college board chair and a 1982 alumna, shared her greetings, as did graduating senior Logan Smith, president of the College’s Student Government Association (SGA). 

Then, Bryson P. Roberson, a graduating senior, shared his remarks as the honorary class speaker. 

“UVA Wise embodies a tight-knit community, fostered by the dedication of our professors,

administrators and the entire college staff. Their commitment to fostering student growth and collaborative learning has brought us to where we stand today. Throughout our time here, UVA Wise has undergone remarkable growth, and as graduates, it's now our responsibility to uphold the College’s reputation with pride,” said Roberson. 

Charles H. “Chuck” Slemp III, a Lee County native, a 2003 alumnus and chief deputy attorney general of Virginia, delivered the Commencement Address. 

“Today is a momentous moment in your path. As you embark on the new chapter of your lives and reflect on your time here in this wonderful place, I want to challenge you with three points: first, try to never settle for just having an ordinary day. Even on the bad days, I challenge you to look for the good,” Slemp said.

“Second, once you leave this place and start your career, I believe that you will find that your personal satisfaction comes from helping others. Third, and finally, remember that success comes so oftentimes by just showing up. This simple, powerful statement serves as a reminder that success often comes to those who are willing to step forward, take action and make a difference.”

After Slemp’s address, Interim Dean of Faculty Affairs Thomas M. “Tom” Costa presented candidates with their degrees with Chancellor Henry awarding.

The UVA Wise Army ROTC program then commissioned seven officers—the largest commissioning class in the history of the College—into the U.S. Army. Six of them were promoted to second lieutenant Saturday including Dakota Ball of Lebanon, Va.; Avery Boehm of Greenville, Va.; Haley Kerhart of Spotsylvania, Va.; Isaiah McCall of Neon, Ky.; Grant Sizemore of Poquoson, Va., and Victoria Wright of Meadows of Dan, Va. Each newly commissioned officer received their first salute and was honored on stage by family and friends. 

Alumni Association President Luke R. Layne, a 2007 alumnus, welcomed all graduates to the alumni body of UVA Wise and inducted each into the alumni association.

The singing of the alma mater and recessional followed, with the UVA Wise Concert Choir and UVA Wise Highland Winds, respectively, leading the musical charge.