UHCL Fall Commencement 2018

A total of 1,056 fall and summer graduates of University of Houston-Clear Lake crossed the stage on Dec. 16 at NRG Arena in two ceremonies held at noon and 5 p.m. The noon ceremony honored candidates from the College of Education and the College of Science and Engineering. There were four student participants in the commencement ceremony: From left, Hunter Forsythe delivered the induction into the UHCL Alumni Association. Glory Hughes, president of the Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society gave the benediction. From right: Johanna Jacob, who received her master of science in computer science, delivered the student address; Gretchen Hardy, secretary of the Student Council for Exceptional Children gave the invocation. Center left: Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Steven J. Berberich, UHCL President Ira K. Blake, and UH System Student Regent Andrew Z. Teoh.

Professor of Biology and Biotechnology Larry R. Rohde served as the speaker during UHCL’s noon ceremony. Approximately 210 graduates from the College of Science and Engineering and 194 from the College of Education crossed the stage. Rohde told students that he knew they were well prepared for their careers, but the key to their success would be to make their career choice enjoyable. “Being able to actually enjoy your career makes everything in your life work so much more rewarding,” he said. “Remember that the Golden Rule is the foundation of all ethics. Applying the rule isn’t always going to end with a perfect result, but there’s always a next time.” Holding the award he received for being a commencement speaker, Rohde, center, is accompanied by Provost Berberich and President Blake.

Professor of Healthcare Administration Ashish Chandra served as the speaker during UHCL’s 5 p.m. ceremony.  Approximately 277 candidates in the College of Human Sciences and Humanities and 375 in the College of Business received their diplomas. Chandra told the students that although they might think their educational journey was ending, in truth, it was just beginning. “Find a job you are passionate about,” he advised. “Rejections will happen, but don’t let that deter you from your passion and doing the right things.” Chandra, center, holds the plaque he received for being a speaker at UHCL’s commencement along with Provost Berberich and President Blake.

The 5 p.m. ceremony honored candidates from the College of Human Sciences and Humanities and the College of Business. Provost Berberich and President Blake, both center, took the commencement platform alongside student dignitaries. From left: Delta Xi Nu President Marie Cossey Daniel and Hawk Leadership Mentor/Success Coach Robin Paul. From right: outgoing Student Government Association President Justin Murphy and Samar Farooqui, founder and president of UHCL’s campus chapter of the American Dental Society.

University of Houston System Board of Regents Vice Chairman Peter K. Taaffe served as commencement speaker and congratulated graduates for their hard work and urged them to be optimistic and continue to achieve their goals. “Stay connected to your alma mater so you can be part of building the future for those who will come after you,” Taaffe said. “UH-Clear Lake will continue to add value to your diploma during your lifetime.” Taaffe stands  with President Blake and Provost Berberich.