Lander University to Celebrate Class of 2024 with Special Commencement Ceremonies

Lander University Set to Honor Class of 2024 with Commencement Ceremonies

Greenwood, SC – Lander University will celebrate the academic achievements of its Class of 2024 during the university’s 170th Commencement Exercises on Thursday, December 12. Two ceremonies will take place in Finis Horne Arena, accommodating a total of 442 graduates who will participate in either the morning or afternoon sessions.

What to Expect during the Ceremonies

The commencement ceremonies will kick off at 10 a.m. for graduates from the College of Business and the College of Science and Mathematics. The 2 p.m. ceremony will follow for students from the College of Arts and Humanities, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, College of Education, and the School of Nursing. Graduates will be assigned to their respective ceremony based on their academic colleges.

Keynote Speaker Spotlight

Dr. Shana Southard Dobbs, the university’s 2024 Distinguished Professor of the Year and associate professor of psychology, has been selected as the keynote speaker for both events. Dr. Southard Dobbs is recognized for her passion for teaching and her research on trauma and cognition. She received Lander’s Junior Faculty Teaching Award in 2019 and has contributed significantly to the university since joining in 2016, mentoring students and conducting pioneering research in psychological factors across multiple disciplines.

Ticketing Information

Tickets are required for entry into Finis Horne Arena. Each graduate will receive up to nine tickets for guests attending the ceremony. Guests without tickets will be directed to an overflow area where the ceremonies can be viewed via livestream. The Registrar’s Office will distribute tickets in November, and guests should note that tickets are specific to their assigned ceremony time and are not transferable.

Arrival and Parking Details

Doors to the Horne Arena will open one hour before each ceremony, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for parking, security checks, and finding seats. For those arriving late, an alternative viewing area will be available at the Abney Cultural Center, featuring a livestream of the event.

Parking is complimentary and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests requiring accommodations for limited mobility or disabilities are allowed to drop off at the Willson Street entrance of the arena.

Security Measures

Security protocols will be in effect for the ceremony. A clear bag policy will be enforced, and all guests must pass through metal detectors at the entrances. Items such as noisemakers, balloons, and banners that obstruct views will not be permitted in the arena to ensure an unobstructed view for all attendees.

Livestream Access for Remote Guests

The university will provide a livestream of both ceremonies for those unable to attend in person, accessible via the Lander website. This ensures that friends and family who cannot be there physically can still witness the celebration of their loved ones’ achievements.

Conclusion

As Lander University prepares for this significant milestone, the commencement exercises promise to be a memorable experience for graduates and their loved ones. More information about the graduation ceremonies can be found on the university’s official website.