Utah State University Southwest Celebrates 2024 Graduating Class

Utah State University Southwest is proud to have celebrated its class of 2024 on April 18. The class of 2024 consists of 90 individuals earning two undergraduate and one graduate certificate and five associate, 48 bachelor’s, 35 master’s, and one doctoral degree. The graduation ceremony was held at Juab Junior High School in Nephi.

“Year after year, I say that you USU graduates in the southwest are truly my rock stars for accomplishing what you have accomplished with all of those things on your plate,” said Nancy Glomb, associate vice president for the Southwest Region. “Many of you were working in full-time positions, raising families, volunteering in your church and community, all while successfully completing your degrees through a USU Southwest Center.”

Glomb began the ceremony by welcoming graduates. The class was then addressed by student speakers, which was a mother-daughter duo of Cheryl and Paola Hawkins. Cheryl Hawkins, the upcoming 2024-25 Southwest student body executive vice president, who achieved a bachelor’s degree in special education, spoke to the graduating class first.

In the address, Cheryl began by relating a story of asking for help while in junior high school. Reflecting on her educational journey, Cheryl shared with graduates how often she received encouragement and help from others, whether it be her mother, friends, children, or others. She then encouraged all her fellow graduates to thank those who helped them through.

“I want to challenge all of you to reach out to those who have made this night possible for you,” Cheryl said. “Whether it is by phone, email, text, a letter, or in person, let them know that they are a part of the magic that is tonight. Think of all the ways, big and small, that your educational path has been made clear by the help and support of others.”

The class were then addressed by Cheryl’s daughter, Paola Hawkins, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the College of Humanities & Social Sciences. Paola spoke on how the graduating class had overcome amazing challenges to get to this point.

“As we reflect on our time here, let us not only celebrate our achievements but also acknowledge the challenges we've overcome,” Paola said. “We've faced academic hurdles, personal setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. But through perseverance, determination, and the support of our community, we've emerged stronger, more resilient individuals.”

She then encouraged her fellow graduates to remember and apply the life lessons they had learned while attending USU.

“Whether we choose to pursue further education, enter the workforce, or embark on a different path altogether, let us carry with us the values that have guided us throughout these years- integrity, compassion, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning,” she said. “Let us remember that the journey ahead will not always be easy. There will be obstacles to overcome, setbacks to endure, and moments of doubt and uncertainty. But let us draw strength from the resilience we've cultivated here, knowing that we are capable of overcoming any challenge that comes our way.”

The students then heard the commencement speech, given by Julie Stevens, clinical assistant professor in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. In the speech, Stevens spoke about her own journey as a USU Statewide student. Stevens started college right out of high school, but soon left school to travel the world. 10 years later, upon hearing her grandmother was sick, she returned home. Her grandmother eventually persuaded her to go back to school. Working her way through her classes at USU Statewide, Stevens was grateful for the opportunity USU gave her to take care of her family and still attend school.

“Statewide helped me continue my education as well as be with my family at their greatest hour of need,” Stevens said. “I work with and advocate for our communities to continue to have this access, so others can be where they are needed most.”

Stevens then encouraged graduates to understand their own stories.

“This awareness of what drives you, helps you to keep studying or to help you see the world of possibilities the education you fought to get has laid before you,” she said. “Your story can help you see if the job you got was the right one or a springboard into a better one. You will see how to advocate for yourself. You will see how to express your hopes to your children, nieces, nephews, and loved ones when encouraging them to find their stories. Our stories have influence and power.”

USU Provost and Chief Academic Officer Laurens H. Smith then provided a short message and conferred upon the students their degrees. Once the graduates received their diplomas, Kim Larson, Executive Director of the USU Alumni Association, delivered a welcome address.

With locations in Beaver, Bicknell, Cedar City, Delta, Ephraim, Junction, Kanab, Nephi, Panguitch, Richfield, and St. George, Utah State University provides higher education access to rural communities via USU Southwest. With degree options ranging from associate to doctorate degrees and technical education opportunities, USU offers programs that help fuel local economies and empower individuals and their communities. Learn more at southwest.usu.edu.