Hundreds of Students Earn Degrees at Commencement

Close to 800 undergraduate and graduate students walked across the stage at Kansas City’s Municipal Auditorium as part of Rockhurst University’s annual commencement ceremony on Saturday.

For many, the day was the culmination of their educational experience and a chance to celebrate their accomplishments with friends and family. The ceremony was also the centerpiece of a weekend of activities honoring graduates, alongside pinning and hooding ceremonies and Commencement Mass on Friday.

Each year, the University selects two students to deliver remarks to their fellow graduates at the ceremony, one undergraduate student and one graduate student. This year, Lauren McKarnin, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree earner, spoke on behalf of undergraduate students. Despite knowing from a young age that she wanted to be a nurse, McKarnin said her path to nursing school at Rockhurst was a winding one.

“At one point in my life, I struggled with the pursuit of my dreams, and I strayed from the path that would lead me to my goal,” she said. “But after a few years of growing and working and doing a lot of learning the hard way, I found my way back to that path, and I rediscovered my true passion.”

At Rockhurst, McKarnin said she embraced opportunities for growth and leadership and found a community that supported one another through the ups and downs of nursing school.

“Some beautiful friendships were formed,” she said. “And those friends quickly became like family, as we gathered together for many delicious meals and pushed each other through hard days of clinicals, class, and many, many long nights of studying.”

In comments on behalf of graduate students, Justin Broxterman, a Master of Business Administration degree recipient, said he’s grateful for the faculty, staff and fellow students who were part of his journey and for the lifelong skills his experience at Rockhurst gave him.

“Rockhurst has challenged us in many ways and helped prepare us for the future. Often, we were pushed out of our comfort zones to try new things and to become better teammates and leaders,” he said. “A perfect example of this is that five years ago, I would never have been up on this stage giving this speech, and that just shows you how much you can grow in an environment that provides support and encouragement in all types of situations.”

Though a major milestone in their journey, University President Sandra Cassady, Ph.D., said in remarks to graduates that it is far from the end of their story with Rockhurst University.

“Hold this thought close to your heart,” she said. “Your connection with Rockhurst University will not end today.  Rockhurst will always be a part of you, and you will always be a part of Rockhurst University.”

Following the ceremony, hundreds of students marched from the auditorium to the Kansas City Power and Light District for Hawk Walk, taking part in the official hat toss and celebrating with friends and family.