More than 690 students graduated during Augusta University’s fall commencement ceremonies held on December 10-11 at the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center.
This event was significant as it marked the first commencement led by Maggy G. Tomova, PhD, the new executive vice president for Academic Affairs and provost.
On December 11, State Representative Jon Burns delivered inspiring remarks during the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony. He emphasized the value of community, stating that true success lies in uplifting others.
“The most meaningful moments of your life won’t be personal achievements. They’ll be the times you used your talents to help others,” he said, reminding graduates how unity strengthens communities.
During the Graduate Hooding Ceremony, which occurred on December 10, keynote speaker Zachary Powell, DMD, shared his own journey. As a 1999 alumnus of the Dental College of Georgia, he talked about the importance of having a mission to serve others.
Powell noted, “Our good works shape the world. It’s how we leave our mark, even in places we may never visit again.” This perspective speaks to a growing trend in education focused on community service and impact.
In addition to these speakers, two students, Natalie Mseis-Jackson, PhD, and Landon Gilbert, shared their experiences and resilience. Mseis-Jackson encouraged fellow graduates to show empathy, remembering the challenges they faced during their journey. She said, “Let’s extend to others the same understanding that helped us rise up.”
Gilbert offered a motivational message about embracing new challenges and pursuing opportunities. He urged graduates to take risks, stating, “Do not get comfortable. Strive for more and take a leap of faith.”
This year’s ceremonies highlight a crucial shift in higher education: the blend of personal growth with community engagement. Recent studies suggest that students increasingly value impact over just financial success. Data from a 2023 survey by Gallup found that 83% of graduates agree that making a difference is as important as their career path.
Overall, these commencement ceremonies were not just a celebration of individual achievement but a collective affirmation of shared values—empathy, service, and perseverance—for the future ahead.
For more details, check Augusta University’s official news page.
