Fall commencement was held Saturday at WVU Parkersburg where a U.S. senator from West Virginia was among the speakers.
Commencement exercises recognized 423 graduates with 467 associate’s and bachelor’s degrees and certificates awarded to students who completed their programs between August and December. Participating in the commencement were 137 graduates.
Trista Scarberry, president of WVU Parkersburg’s Student Government Association, welcomed graduates and guests and reflected on the student experience.
She encouraged graduates to recognize their perseverance, life skills and personal growth during their time at WVU Parkersburg, reminding them that while a degree is a milestone, it also represents their strength, dedication and the relationships they have built.
“Shoot for the moon, and if you fall short, you’ll still be a shining star,” she said.
Torie Jackson, president of WVU Parkersburg, congratulated graduates and reminded them their degrees represent hard work and determination, but the impact will be defined by the relationships they build moving forward.
“Degrees open doors, but relationships build futures,” Jackson said. “Your legacy will be measured by the people whose lives are different because you were in them.”
U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, a member of the Republican leadership in the Senate, spoke about the importance of service, leadership and gratitude, citing the sacrifices of military members, health care workers and everyday citizens.
Capito urged graduates to take their talents, innovation and expertise into the world while remembering the values and community of West Virginia.