Campbell University welcomed 402 new graduates across the convocation stage Saturday in the John W Pope Jr. Convocation Center.
For the Class of 2024, the combination of preserving through COVID-19, adapting to new learning environments and breaking barriers exemplified their challenging journey.
“This is milestone I’ve worked hard for and a blessing I don’t take for granted,” noted Jaylen Gardner (’24). “It also holds deep meaning because my grandfather, Donald Gardner, is a proud Campbell alumnus.”
Numerous members of the Campbell University Class of 2024 walked the graduation stage for the first time, not only in their academic journey but as pioneers in their family.
“It brings me so much joy to watch my parent’s excitement as I achieve my goals,” notes first-generation graduate, Kaitlyn Hand. “Campbell became home the second I walked onto campus, and it will always hold a big part of my heart.”
One of the many highlights from Saturday’s convocation was the presentation of the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award for Guilford “Gil” W. Bass. An alumnus from the Class of 1970, Bass was honored for his outstanding community service and leadership, embodying the values of character, integrity, and compassion.
For students like Diana Guerrero-Nieto, learning lessons from her classmates, professors and faith community came full circle.
“With God all things are possible and to be at a university where you can speak out your faith so boldly is something I will treasure forever,” said Guerrero-Nieto, the Kinesiology Pre-Track PA degree holder.
The candidates for undergraduate degrees include 19 Associate in Arts, 21 Associate of Science, 18 Bachelor of Applied Science, 4 Bachelor of Health Science, 64 Bachelor of Business Administration, 106 Bachelor of Science, 24 Bachelor of Arts, 1 Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and 6 Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
From the professional degrees, 27 Master of Business Administration, 11 Master of Trust and Wealth Management, 4 Master of Education, 3 Master of School Administration, 8 Master of Arts in Teaching, 4 Master of Science, 1 Master of Physician Assistant, 1 Doctor of Pharmacy, 41 Doctor of Physical Therapy, 27 Doctor of Health Science, 3 Juris Doctor, 7 Master of Health Professions Education and 2 Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degrees.
You did it! #Campbell24 pic.twitter.com/GA0BgziD27
— Campbell University (@campbelledu) December 14, 2024
Sydney Robbins worked for the Campbell Football program through a coaching staff change and elevating from the Big South to the Coastal Athletic Association. Her connections on the sidelines earned her an internship with the Carolina Panthers.
“Campbell meant the world to me, and they helped every step along the way,” noted Robbins, who graduated with a degree in Sport Management. “Going to a smaller school, experiencing these connections and opportunities, was the best choice I ever made.”
Callie Houck spent countless hours training peers in the fitness center, humbly enjoying the spotlight on senior homecoming court and even captured an intramural pickleball championship. For Houck, faith, family and the Campbell fitness community empowered her through any challenge.
“Campbell has given me the opportunity to meet some of the most important people in my life, like my best friends and fiancé,” notes Houck, the Business Management graduate. “My time at Campbell has truly shaped who I am today.”
During the 2024-2025 academic year Campbell enrolled approximately 4,963 students in the campus locations online; at Buies Creek, and North Carolina military bases. We invite you to rewatch the ceremony here.