COLUMBIA, Mo. — They broadened their knowledge, honed their skills and gained leadership experience through research, student organizations and service learning. Now, University of Missouri graduates are ready to impact the world.
Mizzou will confer 5,569 degrees during commencement ceremonies Friday, May 10, through Sunday, May 12.
“I’m so proud of our graduates for their hard work and commitment to excellence,” said University of Missouri President Mun Choi. “Mizzou prepares students for great careers and to lead our state, nation and the world. I look forward to seeing how the Class of 2024 will make a difference for our society.”
They may be leaving campus, but Mizzou graduates are Tigers for life. The University of Missouri has more than 362,500 alumni worldwide, many of whom are members of the Mizzou Alumni Association.
“Earning a degree is an incredible achievement, one of pride for our graduates and their families,” said Robin Wenneker, chair of the UM Board of Curators and a Mizzou alumna. “There are so many experiences and traditions at Mizzou that connect us across generations, from Tiger Walk to commencement, and we are excited to welcome the Class of 2024 to the Mizzou alumni family.”
Additionally, Mizzou officials will award honorary degrees to Marcia Chatelain, a historian and a Pulitzer Prize winner; Sarah Elizabeth Leen, an award-winning photojournalist; Gilbert Ross, past director of the MU Division of Urology; and Don Walsworth, an industry leader, public servant and curator emeritus.
Here are five things to know about the Class of 2024
1. They’ll see success.
Mizzou has the highest graduation rate among all public universities in Missouri and is ranked the #7 Best Value among flagship universities by U.S. News and World Report. In fact, more than 95% of recent alumni find a career, continue their studies or go on to assume important service roles within six months of graduation. They go on to meaningful careers and climb the ladder of leadership. Time Magazine ranked Mizzou #13 among all flagship universities for educating future leaders.
2. They’re filling critical positions.
Teachers. Veterinarians. Doctors. In addition to those receiving bachelor’s degrees, 1,483 students are earning graduate and professional degrees that will prepare them for critical jobs in communities across the state and country. Mizzou will award 874 master’s degrees and 586 doctorate degrees to those now prepared for advanced roles in industry and for academia. Mizzou will also award 23 education specialist degrees.
3. Graduates have varied backgrounds.
This year’s graduates came to Missouri from all 50 states and 44 countries to study, work and live, while 634 graduates completed their studies online. Nearly 950 will be the first in their families to have graduated from college, and 63 among the Class of 2024 are active-duty military or veterans.
4. Multiple ceremonies will honor graduates.
Mizzou will hold 14 commencement ceremonies, including separate ceremonies for master’s and doctorate degrees and for honors students. In addition to commencement ceremonies, ROTC will commission officers at three separate events. The full schedule is on www.commencement.missouri.edu
5. You can celebrate in person or from home.
Mizzou will welcome family members and friends from across the world to campus for commencement. Those who can’t make it to Columbia may participate in commencement activities from home. Visit the commencement website to download social graphics and ready-to-post images, print out decorations and make the perfect party snacks with Mizzou-themed recipes.