Celebrate Growth and Leadership: Highlights from Morgan’s Inspiring Spring Commencement

BALTIMORE — Morgan State University recently celebrated one of its biggest graduation ceremonies to date. This year, it honored over 1,000 students during its 148th Spring Commencement. The event took place at Hughes Memorial Stadium, featuring graduates from both the Undergraduate and Graduate programs. Special guests included Dr. Sanjay K. Rai from the Maryland Higher Education Commission, who joined the celebration to congratulate the students.

A record number of graduates, 1,022, received their degrees this year—180 more than last year. Noteworthy achievements included 288 students graduating with Latin Honors and 16 having a perfect 4.0 GPA. There were also 60 doctoral candidates, marking significant progress for the university toward high research status.

This year, Morgan introduced new programs, awarding its first Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics Engineering and Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theatre. Additionally, six graduates were commissioned as first lieutenants in the U.S. Army through the ROTC program.

The theme of this year’s ceremonies revolved around growth and leadership. Honorary doctorates were presented to distinguished individuals, including Thasunda Brown Duckett, CEO of TIAA, and Dr. Juan E. Gilbert, a pioneer in computer science.

In her keynote address, Duckett shared her own educational journey and emphasized the importance of perseverance. She highlighted her background, overcoming challenges to become one of the few Black women leading a Fortune 500 company. She urged graduates to embody strong leadership, emphasizing that effective leaders make a lasting impact.

Among the graduates, Godsheritage Adeoye, originally from Nigeria, received accolades for his contributions to both academics and community leadership.

Carol A. Smith, another standout graduate with a Ph.D. in Bioenvironmental Sciences, spoke about her dedication to marine studies and cleaning waterways. She found Morgan’s unique research opportunities instrumental to her success.

During the ceremonies, student leaders echoed themes of perseverance and community, reminding their peers of the rich legacy they inherit as graduates of an HBCU. Senior Class President Katiana Guillaume noted, “We are living, breathing Black history.”

As the event concluded, Morgan State’s President David K. Wilson called on graduates to continue advocating for social justice and equality, encouraging them to carry the university’s mission into their future endeavors.

This year’s record-holding graduation marks an important milestone, not just for the graduates, but for the entire Morgan State community, as they continue to inspire change and uphold their rich legacy.

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