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The William Exum Center Gym and the five designated overflow sections were filled with guests as Kentucky State University (KSU) celebrated the commencement of its Class of 2024 on Friday, May 10. The overwhelming emotions of loved ones filled the space, as graduates took their seats.  

This year's commencement saw unprecedented amounts of credentials conferred, recognizing the accomplishments of outstanding graduates, including Class of 2024 valedictorian Kendyl Smith. Kynnedi Faith McHenry graduated with two bachelor’s degrees at twenty years old. After fifty years, Ms. Brenda Smith proudly walked across the stage at age seventy-three with her children in attendance.  

KSU President Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo in a reflection of the day’s events stated, “this graduation ceremony marks the beginning of the class of 2024’s next chapter. Thorobreds are an astounding family where we equip students with compassion, determination, empathy, and creativity to succeed in life".

Scholars - Brendan Smith, Ella Denton, Jaleia Hatchett, Margaret Wilkerson, Samuel Gilbert, and Shelby Mitchell completed their associate's degree at eighteen years old. 

The Chair of the Board of Regents, Tammi Dukes, addressed the distinguished gathering, expressing her pride in the accomplishments of the Class of 2024. She emphasized the values of integrity, innovation, and service instilled in the graduates during their time at KSU. Many of the graduates have already started making a positive impact in their communities, from volunteering at local schools to leading community service initiatives. She urged them to continue this work and to always remember the importance of giving back. 

Special guests included Dr. Aaron Thompson, President of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE), Dr. Luther Deaton, CEO of Central Bank in Lexington, Ky, Dr. Anthony Houston, CEO of CHI Saint Joseph Health, Rev. Dr. C.B. Akins Sr., pastor Emeritus of First Baptist of Bracktown in Lexington, Ky, Dr. Virginia Allen, a living legend who was a part of the leadership that helped to cure tuberculosis and Janessa Graham, a 2015 KSU alum and recording artist. 

In addition to the ceremony, two KSU graduates were commissioned into the US Army as lieutenants. The moment took a heartwarming turn when Mr. Roderic Wells, expressed his love and commitment to Ms. Esperance Nibitanga by proposing to her on stage after being commissioned. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause as Esperance tearfully accepted, marking a truly unforgettable moment in the ceremony.  

With a bright future ahead, KSU continues to encourage our Thorobred scholars to always lead for impact! Congratulations to the Class of 2024! 

To view the ceremony and program please click here: https://www.kysu.edu/academics/registrar/commencement/index.php