A crisp, overcast morning greeted graduates of the College of Arts and Sciences and College of Nursing at the Kinesiology-Convocation Building as they prepared for Commencement exercises Saturday, May 15 at 9 a.m. Master of Ceremonies was Dr. Pablo Arenaz, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Commencement speaker for the event was Joe Arciniega, a former technology executive and community theatre advocate in Laredo. Student speaker and Distinguished Student Scholar was Jessica Cadena, earning her bachelors in Nursing.
Commencement began with a fanfare and processional performed by the Texas A&M International University Symphonic Band, followed by the opening declaration by Dr. Arenaz. Presentation of colors was then completed by the TAMIU ROTC under the direction of Captain Martin Longoria. The National Anthem was sung by Dana Crabtree, music instructor at TAMIU as accompanied by the Symphonic Band.
Immediately thereafter, Arciniega began his speech and gave a special emphasis on keeping the arts alive.
“For these graduates here this morning, you are at a critical juncture in your lives. Whatever your plans upon completion of this major of your education, please consider the arts an integral component of your continuing development.”
Cadena then spoke on behalf of the graduating student body and her own experiences as a nursing major. She received a standing ovation as her emotionally charged speech was well received.
“We have journeyed upon a rough road. We’ve cried at our successes and failures. Some of us have fallen but learned how to get back up again, and that’s the important thing. Through our experiences we have learned to become better students, better individuals, and now better professionals.”
Also announced during Commencement was the recipient of the University Teacher of the Year award given this year to Jaclyn Jeffrey, associate professor of anthropology.
Mary Trevino, associate Vice President for Academic Affairs then presented the graduating candidates for degrees as they were dispersed by Dr. Keck and Dr. Arenaz.
The ceremonies were brought to a conclusion with the singing of the alma mater and a prayer of gratitude by Student Government president, Christine Cortez.
The majority of graduates felt relief over finally completing their degrees, as mentioned by Daniel Garcia.
“I feel accomplished, Many sleepless nights, stress, waking up early. I just feel really accomplished.”
Jennifer Gonzalez, who gained her bachelors in Nursing shared the same sentiment of relief.
“I feel relieved; I can now move further to become a nurse “
Ashley Ramirez is readily looking forward to joining the workforce.
“I feel like it still hasn’t hit me but I’m looking forward to the job search.”
Graduates then proceeded outdoors to be greeted by their families and friends.
For more information on Commencement, please visit tamiu.edu/commencement.
(Christine Rojas may be reached at christine_r7@dusty.tamiu.edu)
Wednesday, June 25, 2025