EKU celebrated more than 1,300 fall graduates at its commencement ceremonies held on Dec. 5 and 6, 2024, at the EKU Center for the Arts.
“Today is more than a ceremony, it is a celebration of your remarkable journey and the extraordinary accomplishments you’ve achieved along the way,” said EKU President David McFaddin.
Highlighting their personal journeys at EKU, graduates Nathan Corder, Rachel Collins, Kasi Gannon, Courtney Ritz and Paige Smith each spoke at their respective college ceremonies.
Courtney Ritz, a psychology graduate from Pikeville, Kentucky, represents hope and second chances. Ritz began her education a decade ago as a first-generation college student. A car accident, financial setbacks and starting a family delayed her academic goals, but Ritz never lost hope.
“Through each hardship, I found unexpected support—and with it, grace,” said Ritz. “From friends who offered a place to stay, to professors who believed in me, and to mentors like the Dean of Students Dr. Lara Vance, who provided opportunities to help me return to EKU, I was surrounded by a community that reminded me I wasn’t alone. I kept working, paid off debts and stayed committed to my education, knowing that EKU was my way forward.”
Ritz continued, “The resources they provided me here at EKU have been instrumental in my journey, proving that EKU is not just a university but a community that stands by its students, even when the going gets tough.”
Kasi Gannon, a coal miner’s daughter, grew up in various places including Pike County, Kentucky, then West Virginia with her mom and sister and later spent time in Panama City, Florida.
At EKU, Gannon found a home by working on campus, joining a sorority and getting involved.
“When I let myself accept the hospitality that EKU offered, I quickly learned that the faculty, the staff and the Campus Beautiful provided me a home away from home,” she said.
Gannon graduated with a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree.
From starting as a kindergartener at Model Laboratory Schools to becoming a college graduate, EKU has been a guiding force in shaping Nathan Corder’s journey. Known as the “School of Opportunity,” EKU offered a foundation for personal and academic growth through community support and open doors.
From beautifying the Model Lab outdoor area as part of an Eagle Scout project to serving as a student ambassador and sharing EKU’s potential at events like STEM Goes Red, Corder used every opportunity to learn, grow and make an impact. As a media ambassador, he showcased the beauty and spirit of EKU, further deepening his connection to the campus.
“Let us always remember the friends, mentors and experiences that shaped us,” said Corder, who graduated with a degree in medical laboratory science. The opportunities offered at EKU have encouraged Corder to be bold, take risks and continue growing beyond the campus.
Student Body President Will Lampert addressed graduates at the ceremonies, saying, “Eastern Kentucky University has always been a place where persistence defines our story. From its very founding, EKU has been built by those who faced challenges head-on and refused to give up. Today, as you prepare to walk across this stage, you are becoming part of that legacy.”
EKU recognized 1,325 graduates, including 145 certificates, 37 associate degrees, 946 bachelor’s degrees, 178 master’s degrees, 2 post-master’s certificates and 17 doctoral degrees. Five ceremonies were held to celebrate master’s and doctoral graduates from all colleges and graduates from the College of Justice, Safety, and Military Science; the College of Education and Applied Human Sciences and the College of Business; the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences; and the College of Health Sciences and College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
EKU has a long-standing history of empowering students to overcome challenges, pursue their dreams and achieve academic and career success. As the Class of 2024 celebrated this milestone, their journeys show what makes EKU truly special: a commitment to helping students find their way forward, no matter the obstacles.
By A’Mya Kendrick
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