UF sends off 902 graduates

Spirits were high as 902 graduates celebrated the end of their journey at the University of Findlay – officially becoming the Class of 2024. Faculty, staff, family members and friends celebrated the graduates as 16 associate degrees, 432 bachelor's degrees, 314 master's degrees and 152 doctoral degrees were handed out at the Koehler Fitness and Recreation Complex on Saturday. Some students earned multiple degrees. 39 states and 24 countries were represented by undergraduate and graduate students. All University of Findlay students walk through the arch towards the school's campus when they first arrive as a student. These same students walk out of the arch at the end of the commencement ceremony, signifying the next steps they'll take toward the future. "Great moments happen in the present. Anxiety is fear (of) the future that hasn't happened yet," said guest speaker Dr. Zachary Shutler to the undergraduates during the ceremony. Shutler earned his Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership from the university in 2022. "If you want to be great tomorrow, be great right now, be great in this moment." "Surround yourself with a group of people that are honest with you, but will tell you when you're heading in the right direction. But will also tell you when you're headed in the wrong direction," he continued. "Use your words to inspire and always, always realize there's more roles before you stop."