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The University of South Carolina Upstate celebrated its December 2024 Commencement with an inspiring ceremony that recognized the accomplishments of its graduating class. Presiding over the event was Chancellor Bennie Harris, whose uplifting words set the tone for an unforgettable day.

The ceremony began with the Presentation of Colors by the Cadets of the Army ROTC Southern Guards Battalion, followed by a rendition of the National Anthem by ���������� sophomore Samantha Abby Hogue. Rev. James Richard Landrum, Sr., from the Greater St. James Temple Holiness Church, delivered a heartfelt invocation, urging attendees to remain grateful for the greater good that guides graduates and encouraged them to continue striving for excellence.

Student Body President Madison Chaplin warmly greeted her fellow graduates, saying, “Today is a celebration of many things: our achievements, our strength, and our collective growth. The path to this stage has been anything but easy, yet we persisted. We reached higher for ourselves, our families, our dreams, and the future we are determined to create.”

Anne Flynn, Chair of the Spartanburg County Commission for Higher Education, also addressed the graduates, noting the significance of their degrees. “Commencement is such a special occasion in the lives of our graduates and their families. Be very proud of your degree from ����������,” she said.

A poignant highlight of the ceremony was the commissioning of Cadet Deven Parshall, a graduate of the Mary Black College of Nursing, into the United States Army Nurse Corps as an officer. In her new role, Cadet Parshall will provide care to America’s warfighters and their families during their most vulnerable moments.

Chancellor Harris’s address resonated deeply with the audience as he recounted the story of a mule overcoming challenges to climb out of a well. “Life has a way of throwing dirt on us from time to time,” Harris said. “If you shake it off and keep stepping up, you may surprise yourself with how high you can go. Like that mule, you can turn any challenge into a step upward. Always remember the strength you found at ����������.” He praised the graduates and highlighted their ability to adapt and support one another through challenges, including Hurricane Helene.

The ceremony also included recognition for the first eight graduates of ����������’s Re:Degree program, with Ashley Turner, one of the graduates, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to complete her business administration degree. “After graduation, I plan on growing into a higher position within the company I currently work for,” she shared. Dr. Erin Smith, Director of Adult Degree Re-engagement, presented the graduates with a prestigious Re:Degree medallion.

Candace Salley, a criminal justice major, expressed her excitement and gratitude. “Thank you, ����������, for all four years. I’m excited to continue my journey in criminal justice locally,” she said, while her mother, Paulette Salley, shared her pride in her daughter’s perseverance and faith.

“I’ve prayed for this moment because Candace worked so hard to earn her Criminal Justice degree. From the start, I taught her that faith is at the center of everything, and she’s never forgotten that. College wasn’t easy, but she always prayed before exams and faced challenges with a smile. Seeing her persevere makes me so proud of all she’s accomplished at ����������.” said Salley of her daughter.

Another notable graduate, Jared Keklak, who earned a Master of Science in Informatics, reflected on his journey as a student-athlete. “My teammates really helped me get through school,” Keklak said. “This is my second degree from ����������—I earned my bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems in 2023. I loved my professors and wanted to continue my education in technology. While a student, I ran cross country and track, balancing school, studying, classes, and training. My teammates were a big support, helping me through it all. To anyone considering college, stay close to your friends and peers—they’re invaluable for support.” He has been working for AFL as an internship and will transition to a full-time role in January.

The ceremony featured the Presentation of Candidates for Degrees, where graduate students were hooded, followed by the conferring of undergraduate degrees. Graduates were officially welcomed into the ���������� Alumni Association by Charlianne Nestlen, ’03, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving. “You are now part of an exclusive network. Come back and visit often, support our athletics, hire fellow alumni, and give back generously,” she encouraged.

Closing remarks from Chancellor Harris highlighted the significance of the day, reminding graduates that their degrees symbolize integrity, hard work, and legacy. The ceremony concluded with the Alma Mater, sung by Samantha Abby Hogue, and classical music provided by the Spartanburg Philharmonic String Quintet.

The December 2024 Commencement was a celebration of community, perseverance, and achievement, leaving graduates, families, and the Spartan Family with a profound sense of pride and optimism for the future.

The December 2024 graduating class featured the following highlights:

• Largest Graduate Major: Applied Learning & Instruction (58 graduates)
• Top Undergraduate Majors: Nursing (62), Nursing – R.N. (31), Criminal Justice (30), Experimental Psychology (28), Interdisciplinary Studies (24), Exercise & Sport Science (22), Marketing (15), Elementary Education (15)
• Average GPA: 3.26 for baccalaureate degree recipients
• Top Counties Represented: Spartanburg (167), Greenville (89), Cherokee (24), York (24), Richland (18)

Find more photos from Commencement, College of Nursing Honors and Pinning Ceremony, and College of Science and Technology Honors .

If you’re interested in going back to complete your degree at ����������, through the program, please reach out to Debbie Little, Re:Degree Advisor.