News Summary
Augusta University held a special mini commencement ceremony for student-athletes Avery Jaynes and Emily McBride, who were unable to attend the main graduation due to a national track meet. The event celebrated their academic and athletic achievements, highlighting their dedication to both fields. University leadership recognized their contributions and aspirations, with notable speakers providing encouragement. The ceremony underscored Augusta University’s commitment to fostering excellence among its student-athletes and showcased their impressive records and accolades in competitive sports.
Augusta, Georgia – Augusta University honored graduating student-athletes Avery Jaynes and Emily McBride with a special mini commencement ceremony on May 14, 2025. Both athletes were unable to attend the main graduation event due to their participation in a national track meet, prompting the university to organize an event specifically recognizing their achievements.
The ceremony was held at Christenberry Fieldhouse and was attended by university leadership, faculty, staff, and family members. President Russell T. Keen, EdD, congratulated Jaynes and McBride for their outstanding contributions to both athletics and academics. Retired Brig. Gen. Jeff Foley served as the keynote speaker, providing inspiration and encouragement to the graduates. Additionally, remarks were made by Dr. Judi Wilson, Dean of the College of Education and Human Development, and Dr. Jennifer Sullivan, Interim Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost.
Both Jaynes and McBride were celebrated for their exceptional track records, which include numerous Peach Belt Conference (PBC) championships, school records, and NCAA national qualifying performances. Avery Jaynes, a senior from Brooklet, Georgia, is a two-time PBC Cross Country Runner of the Year and holds both the school and Peach Belt records in the 5,000m and 10,000m events. Emily McBride, a senior from Peachtree City, Georgia, was recognized as a USTFCCCA All-Region honoree and holds the school record in the 3,000m steeplechase.
The mini commencement not only acknowledged the athletes’ accomplishments but also underscored their commitment to balancing the demands of academics and athletics. Augusta University’s dedication to supporting its student-athletes was evident, and the ceremony reflected the university’s recognition of the importance of both academic achievement and athletic excellence.
Augusta Athletics expressed appreciation for the efforts of university faculty, staff, and campus partners who played a crucial role in organizing and supporting the momentous occasion. The event not only celebrated individual accomplishments but highlighted the broader success of the Jaguar Athletics program.
As the school year concludes, fans of Jaguar Athletics are encouraged to continue their support for the program financially and stay updated on the latest developments through various social media platforms and official channels. The recognition of Jaynes and McBride serves as a reminder of the commitment Augusta University has to fostering an environment where student-athletes can excel in all facets of their lives.
The achievements of Avery Jaynes and Emily McBride are poised to inspire future generations of athletes at Augusta University, showcasing the ability to achieve greatness in competitive sports while maintaining academic standards. The university community celebrated the graduates’ historic contributions, ensuring their legacies will be remembered as part of the ongoing success of Augusta University.
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Additional Resources
- Augusta University Honors Graduates – Augusta Jags
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Commencement Ceremony
- Augusta University Celebrates New Alumnus – The Augusta Press
- Wikipedia: Augusta University
- Record Breaking Year for Jaguar Academics – Augusta Jags
- Google News: Augusta University
