Lamar University celebrates graduates at summer commencement

Lamar University held its summer commencement ceremony at the Montage Center on Saturday, Aug. 3 recognizing the achievements of its graduates, and conferring over 1,000 degrees. 

"Our 1,011 graduates come from 13 countries outside of the United States, 33 states other than Texas, and 275 cities and towns in Texas," Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Brett Welch said. 

At the ceremony, President of Lamar University Dr. Jaime Taylor addressed the graduates, emphasizing the value beyond their diplomas.

"Your diploma does a lot of things, and it will get you through the doors, but all that value is not in the diploma, it's in you. Lamar University is not in the business of giving degrees; it's in creating human value," Taylor said.

He further encouraged graduates to apply their education in meaningful ways.

"You are Lamar University, so don't be shy about communicating your value every day to your employers and members of the community and those in leadership positions," Taylor said. "Your value finds its fullest expression not in the diploma you carry, but in the way you transform the world."