UIW Honors Fall 2024 Graduating Class at Ring Ceremony

On Monday, Dec. 9, the University commemorated the achievements of the Fall 2024 graduating class at the UIW Ring Ceremony, presented by Herff Jones. Initially held in 2016, the Ring Ceremony is typically hosted exclusively during spring semesters. A fall ceremony was added this year to accommodate the growing student interest and participation in what is now viewed as a beloved school tradition.

This fall, 102 students were honored at the ceremony.

"The purpose of the ring ceremony is to recognize the hard work and dedication put in by the students and celebrate them nearing the end of their academic journey," said Clarissa Gauna, Alumni Relations manager.

UIW rings crafted by Herff Jones incorporate a variety of symbols, each representing a part of UIW's history and legacy. The center piece of the ring depicts a steeple that symbolizes the faith upon which the school was built. This same faith continues to inspire generations of Cardinals to envision their goals and dedicate themselves to making them a reality. Additionally, the diamonds students choose to place on their rings represent the strength of the University's heritage and its Mission of excellence and serving as a light in the world.

Prior to the ceremony, all rings stayed overnight in the Chapel of the Incarnate Word, waiting for soon-to-be graduates to claim them. They will be proudly worn as the University's newest alumni walk across the commencement stage on Saturday, Dec. 14.

As an UIW alumna herself, Gauna finds contributing to the ceremony to be a full circle moment. UIW graduates receiving their class rings is a milestone that brings students and their families so much joy, and she is happy to be a part of that.

"I hope our class ring recipients were able to see how excited the entire UIW community is for them to be at this point in their academic careers," expressed Gauna. "Congratulations, UIW Fall Class of 2024!"