Show-Me State Times

The University of Missouri (Mizzou) is set to confer 5,569 degrees during its commencement ceremonies from Friday, May 10, through Sunday, May 12. The graduates have honed their skills and gained leadership experience through research, student organizations, and service learning.

“I’m so proud of our graduates for their hard work and commitment to excellence,” said University of Missouri President Mun Choi. “Mizzou prepares students for great careers and to lead our state, nation and the world. I look forward to seeing how the Class of 2024 will make a difference for our society.”

The university has over 362,500 alumni worldwide. Robin Wenneker, chair of the UM Board of Curators and a Mizzou alumna, expressed her excitement about welcoming the Class of 2024 into the Mizzou alumni family.

During the ceremonies, honorary degrees will be awarded to Marcia Chatelain, a historian and Pulitzer Prize winner; Sarah Elizabeth Leen, an award-winning photojournalist; Gilbert Ross, past director of the MU Division of Urology; and Don Walsworth, an industry leader, public servant and curator emeritus.

The Class of 2024 is notable for several reasons:

1. They are expected to see success as Mizzou has the highest graduation rate among all public universities in Missouri.

2. They are filling critical positions with 1,483 students earning graduate and professional degrees.

3. The graduates have varied backgrounds with students coming from all 50 states and 44 countries.

4. Multiple ceremonies will honor graduates including separate ceremonies for master’s and doctorate degrees.

5. Family members can celebrate in person or participate in commencement activities from home.

A detailed schedule of ceremonies has been provided by the university.

Biographical information on honorary degree recipients Marcia Chatelain, Sarah Elizabeth Leen, Gilbert Ross and Don Walsworth was also provided, detailing their contributions to academia, journalism, medicine and public service respectively.