While graduations are marked by traditions—there’s no denying that every graduate comes to that moment with their own story. On Saturday, CU Denver celebrated all of those journeys at fall commencement.
Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Genia Herndon served as the event’s master of ceremonies and began by reflecting on the separate paths that each student took to earn their degree. “Our graduates didn’t just arrive at this moment,” Herndon said. “They built it. They pushed forward. They adapted. They juggled jobs, families, commutes, and more than a few late-night deadlines. And they did it with the kind of determination that builds communities, changes institutions, shapes futures, and defines CU Denver.”
Then, CU Denver Chancellor Kenneth T. Christensen, PhD, greeted the crowd. Christensen spoke to the graduates of family, legacy, and the support that helped him on his educational journey. “It was my parents, my grandparents, and the generations before them that created the opportunities that ultimately led me here,” he said.
Christensen also spoke about CU Denver’s history and its commitment to student success—something that is part of the university’s DNA. “Since our beginning, CU Denver has helped nontraditional and working learners pursue knowledge, earn degrees, build skills, and improve their lives, as well as those of their families and their communities,” he said.
He welcomed the soon-to-be alumni to stay connected with the university. “I want you to know that CU Denver will always be here to support your future growth,” he said. “We hope we can count on you to be a part of our growth, too. After all, you are now and forever a member of the CU Denver family—and family is always there for one another.”
Next, CU President Todd Saliman gave remarks that turned the focus to the future—and all the things that are yet to come. “Consider all that you’ve learned, including how to learn,” he said. “The question now is, how can you apply these skills?” Then, graduating students were brought to the stage. Supported by loud applause, shouts of encouragement, and plenty of clapping, graduates—and their success—were in the spotlight.
The event was attended by CU Regent Ilana Dubin Spiegel, Regent Wanda James, Regent Ken Montera, and Regent Mark VanDriel. Montera led graduates in the celebratory tassel turn, which moves the tassel from the right side to the left side of their cap.
With that, the celebration continued as graduates, families, and friends gathered for photos and laughter. And, while we’re excited to see the impact our graduates will make on the next step in their journeys, today we are focused on this moment of success. Congratulations, graduates!
