Thomas University celebrates the Class of 2023
Post Published On:Success, Imagination, and Ideas.
Those were the three words Dr. Robert A. Bohman, Vice President for Student Life at Thomas University, imparted on the graduating Class of 2023 on Saturday.
The university celebrated its 68th commencement ceremony by conferring degrees onto nearly 500 students, while bestowing titles, and awards to faculty members.
The graduating class included traditional, non-traditional, local, and international students.
During his commencement address, Bohman encouraged graduates to reflect on their journey at Thomas University — the moments that challenged them the most when they were asked to step outside their comfort zone to see their full potential. He said those were the moments that emboldened them to make the choice to succeed.
As graduates embark on their new careers, Bohman told graduates there is not a complete script written about them, they are yet to write it, and they can start off with an imagination. Last, Bohman reminded graduates that sometimes ideas come out of the blue, and they should not be afraid to pursue them.
The success of some graduates was highlighted when they walked across the stage. They included Devin M. Crews of Port St. Joe, Florida; Jessica Rand of Bainbridge, Georgia; Katie Carver of Hazlehurst, Georgia; Kayley Smith of Pensacola, Florida; Robin Jones Da Silva of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Anna Greek of Thomasville, Georgia.
- Devin of Port St. Joe, Florida, was the recipient of the President’s Award, the highest honor presented to a TU student. He graduated Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.
- Jessica (undergraduate), and Jacquelyn (graduate) were recipients of the Outstanding Student Award for the Division of Education.
- Katie (undergraduate) Domanek (graduate), and Shammah (graduate) were recipients of the Outstanding Student Award for the Division of Health and Sciences.
- Kayley (undergraduate) was recipient of the Outstanding Student Award for the Division of Social and Behavioral Science.
- Robin (undergraduate) and Laura (graduate) were recipients of the Outstanding Student Award for the Division of Business
- Anna (undergraduate) was recipient of the Outstanding Student Award for the Division of Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies
Dr. Steven DePaola, Associate Professor of Psychology, was named Thomas University’s 2023 Professor of the Year. Mr. Crawford “Chip” Battle, Criminal Justice Program Director, was the recipientof the 2023 Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award.
Bohman ended his address to the Class of 2023 with a Latin command.
“To you I express Carpe Diem. Seize the day!”
