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Kentucky State University President M. Christopher Brown II continued an old Ivy League tradition to the University recently, celebrating graduating seniors with a parting dinner and gifts.

The President’s 86 Night Dinner was an opportunity for those students and one guest, a University faculty or staff member who made a difference in their academic career, to reflect on their hard work, accomplishments and plans ahead.

“This is a night where we pause to congratulate our graduating seniors and allow those seniors to say thank you to a faculty or staff member who has meant so much during their academic matriculation,” President Brown said.

Kentucky State University Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Lucian Yates III presided over the event.

“I’d like for everyone in the room to congratulate you for staying the course, persevering, crying, praying, doing everything that you did so that you can be here tonight,” Yates said.

Dr. Elaine Farris, chair of the Kentucky State University Board of Regents, encouraged the graduating seniors to help others succeed.

“All the individuals in this room, there is someone who helped you to get where you are today,” Farris said. “Always remember: always reach back and help somebody to get where you are.”

Diamond Ivey, senior class president, encouraged graduating seniors to stay involved with Kentucky State’s alumni association after commencement.

“I hope and pray that you all succeed in all future endeavors,” Ivey said.

All graduating seniors in attendance received a gift and Todne Kellem from Kansas City, Missouri, received a $250 award to purchase business attire for her new career, courtesy of the Kentucky State University Foundation.