Record number of students receive degrees at Clemson University

Published: May 13, 2011

CLEMSON — Clemson University’s largest graduating class ever received degrees in Spring Commencement ceremonies at Littlejohn Coliseum on Friday.

The tally of degrees being awarded was 2,713 as 2,188 students completed requirements for bachelor’s degrees, 457 received master’s degrees and 68 earned doctorates. About 2,460 of them took part in the morning and afternoon ceremonies Friday.

U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., gave two thumbs up as he received an honorary doctorate in the morning ceremony.

“I have been honored by several universities in our state, but this is home,” said Graham, who grew up in nearby Central. “My daddy brought me here to watch freshman football games on Thursdays ... I came to the first basketball game in this facility.”

Graham told the graduates they are the beneficiaries of Clemson University’s drive to become a Top 20 national public university.

“A degree from Clemson University is something to be proud of and carries a lot of weight in the marketplace,” he said. “But how you use it is up to you.”

Graham, who lost both of his parents while he was a college student, urged the graduates to “never lose sight” of the importance of family, “because if you don’t appreciate the ones who care the most about you, none of these degrees matter.”

Leslie Michelle Hash of Raleigh, N.C., winner of the Clemson Cup Speech Competition, addressed the afternoon graduates.

Hash, who graduated with a bachelor's degree in animal and veterinary  science during the morning ceremony, spoke of Clemson's history and tradition of service.

"While you may leave this beloved place, remember we are still one Clemson family," she said. "The special connection that we share is an impenetrable bond. It's a connection that fuels our commitment to service, overwhelming spirit and sense of community."

Hash will pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at North Carolina State University.

President Barker congratulated graduates at the end of each ceremony.

"Remember, especially in the current economic environment, life is not waiting for the storm to pass," he said. "Life is learning to dance in the rain."

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