Grand Junction – Colorado Mesa University students will graduate this month leaving Brownson Arena with 709 degrees and certificates in hand, earned by more than 670 graduates. The winter class’ numbers reflect not only continued retention success at CMU, but also reflects a growing diversity in the kinds of degrees offered at CMU and its community college division.
Based on preliminary numbers more than 20 advanced degrees were earned by graduates alongside 419 bachelor, 156 associate and 112 professional and technical certificates.
CMU Vice President of Academic Affairs, Kurt Haas, PhD, said he is not only proud of the 2019 graduates but is also proud of the CMU faculty who work tirelessly to continue adding programs and offerings that meet the needs of students.
"Tomorrow’s commencement offers a well-rounded cohort of students and degrees,” said Haas. "This diversity is what we like to see as CMU adds new credentials. In 2019 CMU added the Master of Science in Athletic Training among other new offerings, and continues working to add programs like a Master’s degree in Social Work. These kinds of efforts are in response to community and student need. Every year I’m honored to be a part of issuing degrees and credentials like these to the people who earned them.”
The 2019 December Commencement is on Friday, December 13, at 9:30am in Brownson Arena in the Maverick Center. Commencement agenda includes student vocal performances, invocation, remarks from Student Body President Angel Bautista as well as remarks from CMU President Tim Foster.
Bautista will represent December graduates in his remarks and is active in many parts of student life at CMU including the Associated Student Government.
"Time at university goes fast just like in life,” said Bautista. “My remarks will also be short and direct and I hope I can offer some words of encouragement as my fellow Mavericks make their way into the world. Representing students during this reverent ceremony is an honor that I don’t take for granted.”
Prior to Bautista’s remarks, Foster will address attendees reinforcing the belief that university commencement is an important tradition.
“Students and their support networks invest in and work hard to get graduates to this time and place,” said Foster. "Parents, grandparents, neighbors, teachers, mentors and friends all play a role. This is a moment in the life of each graduate where the culmination of their learning enjoins in a single event. Commencement is a time honored ceremony and I’m looking forward to seeing joy on the faces of student supporters tomorrow morning.”
Those who plan to attend commencement are encouraged to arrive early as the event is expected to be standing-room-only and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Overflow rooms will be available in the Maverick Center in designated classrooms, where the audience will be able to view the ceremony via live stream.
For those who are unable to attend the ceremony but want to share the moment, the ceremony will be broadcast live online beginning at 9:20am MST on Friday, December 13, at the commencement website.