Students, faculty and family gathered on May 17 at the University’s historic Quad to celebrate the graduation of the 2024 cohort of the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources.
Prior to delivering his commencement speech, President Brian Sandoval led an applause for the students before inviting attendees to a spirited Wolf Pack chant. He urged the graduating class to aspire to make a difference in their lives and communities, while also calling on them to embrace humility through service that inspires others to reciprocate.
President Sandoval also acknowledged Barbara Stankuté, a first-generation college student who has demonstrated exemplary commitment to community service while excelling in her studies. She not only majored in both nutrition and biochemistry & molecular biology, but also volunteered in a trauma center and began training as an emergency medical technician, all while actively engaged in applied research projects. At a recent College award ceremony, Stankuté received the Outstanding Senior Award in the Department of Nutrition.
This year, the College awarded 213 academic degrees, including 189 bachelor’s, eight master’s and 16 doctoral degrees, marking the culmination of years of resilience and hard work. Claus Tittiger, the College’s associate dean of academic affairs, congratulated the students as they prepared to move their tassels from right to left, symbolizing their new status as graduates.
In his closing speech, President Sandoval reiterated his call for community service.
“A small random act of kindness can brighten a person's day, unleashing ripples of goodness that can change a person's life,” he said. “A lifetime of service becomes the bedrock of a community … a community where everyone works together and comes together for the greater good – that is what we call The Wolf Pack Way.”
