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USC Aiken Celebrates Graduation Season with Historic Ceremony

Graduates of USC Aiken celebrating their achievements during the graduation ceremony.

News Summary

USC Aiken’s graduation season commenced with a memorable ceremony at the Convocation Center, honoring over 400 graduates, including the first cohort of the USCA LIFE program. This year’s event also recognized the achievements of various students, such as the Outstanding Senior and other notable graduates, alongside commissioning Army cadets. Family and friends gathered to celebrate the milestones reached by the graduates, as well as to mark the beginning of new chapters in their lives.

Aiken, SC – Aiken’s graduation season commenced with a significant ceremony at the USC Aiken Convocation Center on May 7, where over 400 graduates were celebrated, marking a milestone for students across various disciplines. The event, attended by family, friends, and faculty, showcased the hard work and accomplishments of the graduating class, including the launch of a pioneering program aimed at inclusivity.

The graduation ceremony for the University of South Carolina Aiken kicked off at 6 p.m., where the first cohort of the USCA LIFE program—the university’s initiative for college-age students with intellectual disabilities—managed to make history by walking across the stage. This graduating class comprised 13 individuals who have significantly impacted the campus community.

The graduates of the USCA LIFE program included notable individuals such as Evan Allgood, Neva Bassett, Chelsea Best, Amelia Carpenter, and Lillian Colwell. Chancellor Daniel Heimmermann highlighted their journey and transformation throughout their time at the university, noting their remarkable accomplishments. Alongside them, U.S. Army Cadets Christian Brown, Danielle Brown, Casey Barrett, and Jalen Tangaan were also commissioned as Second Lieutenants, adding a layer of honor to the ceremony.

Among the distinguished graduates, Rachel Eubanks emerged as the Outstanding Senior Student. As a dual-degree student in Psychology and English with a flawless GPA, her achievements were notably recognized during the ceremony. Another standout was Billy Jacobs, a 53-year-old veteran, who graduated summa cum laude in Business Administration while balancing his studies with a full-time job. Richy Modugu, previously the president of the USCA Student Government Association, graduated with a Bachelor’s in computer science, concentrating on cybersecurity, and has intentions to pursue a master’s degree at his alma mater.

The ceremony also included the traditional singing of the university’s alma mater, “We Hail Thee, Carolina,” which added a sentimental touch to the event. Graduates participated in the ceremonial cap-tassel movement, symbolizing their transition from students to alumni.

Following the USC Aiken commencement, the USC Aiken Convocation Center set the stage for further graduations, offering a venue for upcoming Aiken County schools’ ceremonies on May 28 and 29. This venue will also host the commencement ceremonies for the Columbia County Schools scheduled for May 28-30. In preparation for potential weather disruptions, contingency plans have been established, along with live-streaming options for each of the ceremonies to ensure that those unable to attend in person can still witness the celebrations.

The weather forecast leading up to these anticipated events indicated mixed conditions, with rain and thunderstorms likely on May 27, along with a high temperature of 69°F. However, the organized events are set to proceed with alternative arrangements in place to prioritize graduates and their attending families.

This graduation season not only marks a culmination of years of academic dedication but also signifies new beginnings for Aiken graduates as they step into their futures, armed with knowledge and experiences gained at USC Aiken. The community and university stand proud of these individuals and their contributions as they embark on their next chapters.