On May 17, students, faculty, staff and families gathered in the University’s historic courtyard to celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2024 from the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources.
President Brian Sandoval led a round of applause for the students and invited attendees to join in a spirited Wolfpack sing-along before his commencement speech. He urged graduates to strive to make a difference in their lives and their communities, and to embrace humility through service that inspires them to give back to others.
President Sandoval also recognized Barbara Stankte, a first-generation college student who has demonstrated exemplary community service while achieving excellent academic results. Not only did she double major in nutrition and biochemistry and molecular biology, she volunteered at a trauma center and began her training as a paramedic while actively working on applied research projects. At a recent college awards ceremony, Stankte was awarded the Nutrition Department’s Outstanding Senior Award.
This year, the university awarded 213 degrees, including 189 bachelor’s degrees, eight master’s degrees and 16 doctorates – the culmination of years of perseverance and hard work. Klaus Tittiger, the university’s vice dean for academic affairs, congratulated the students as they prepared to move the tassels on their caps from right to left, symbolizing their new status as graduates.
In his closing remarks, President Sandoval reiterated the call for community service.
“Small acts of kindness can brighten someone’s day and start a wave of goodness that can change a life,” he said. “A lifetime of service is the foundation of community. A community where everyone works together and comes together for the greater good. That’s what we call the Wolfpack Way.”