CofC Graduate School Commencement Celebrates New Graduates

^{Photos by Mike Ledford}

Graduates from the Graduate School of the University of Charleston, South Carolina, gathered in the historic Sottile Theatre on Thursday, May 8, 2025, to celebrate the conclusion of their academic journeys and the beginning of a future that is theirs for the making.

President Andrew T. Hsu congratulated graduates on their commitment to learning their disciplines in deeper, more meaningful ways.

“We need you to put that knowledge into action, so that others may benefit from what you have learned here,” he said.

Ron Magnuson, executive director of graduate and executive programs in the School of Business, was the commencement speaker. Throughout his career, he has held senior leadership roles in the energy industry and various academic appointments. He told graduates these experiences have taught him to avoid “checking the boxes.”

“In fact, one of the first things I tell the students is, ‘If you came here just to get a degree, you have come to the wrong place,'” said Magnuson, adding that – while it is human tendency to check off boxes when we get overwhelmed – we can resist that temptation by stopping to celebrate our achievements along the way. “Let’s start today by avoiding the temptation to focus on dinner plans, traffic, parking and how long this speech is going to be. Instead, let’s focus on the exceptional experiences and achievements of these graduates.”

Klaudia Rushi, Graduate Student Association vice president, spoke to her fellow graduates about relocating to Charleston in 2024. She said that her experience as a student in the MBA program has taught her that “true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room, but the one that lifts others up.”

Leadership awards were also presented during the ceremony. Rachel Bares (Master of Science in Environmental and Sustainability Studies and Public Administration Program) received the Excellence in Leadership Award, Halie Beard (Master of Public Administration, Arts and Cultural Management Graduate Certificate) received the Excellence in Experiential Learning Award and Mikayla Milford (Master of Science in Environmental and Sustainability Studies) received the Excellence in Service and Engagement Award.

Keonya Booker, interim dean of the Graduate School of the University of Charleston, South Carolina, presented graduates with their hoods, and the ceremony concluded with the College of Charleston Alma Mater.