BELTON, TX – The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor held commencement services for the Fall 2024 semester today at Crusader Stadium. This was the university's 168th graduating class, and an estimated 411 students were awarded degrees, including 295 baccalaureate degrees, 79 master's degrees, and 37 doctoral degrees.
UMHB President Dr. Randy O'Rear commended students for their dedication and determination to finish their degrees and celebrated the accomplishments of the class of 2024.
"Class of 2024, during your time at UMHB, your class brought a new energy to many of our great traditions such as Big Event, Easter Pageant, Cru Knights, Welcome Week, and Revival. You welcomed the old tradition of Forgiving Day and embraced the saying, 'In a world where you can cancel and block, be someone who forgives.' You have used your talents to better this university and the world around you, and you are leaving behind an impressive legacy of leadership and service for those who follow in your footsteps," he said. "Colossians 3:17 tells us, 'And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.' We are honored that you chose Mary Hardin-Baylor. As you embark on your careers, graduate school, or whatever is next, please know your Mary Hardin-Baylor family loves and is very proud of you." He finished with, "Please come back and visit us often. We'll have some Cru Dogs and purple ice cream waiting for you. May God richly bless you as you seek to fulfill His purpose for your lives."
Student recognitions during the ceremony included the Provost Medal for highest overall GPA, which was awarded to nine students who each graduated with perfect 4.0 grade point averages: Caroline Allen of San Antonio, TX, Selah Marie Bentz of Fallbrook, CA, Gerald Adam Brady of Temple, TX, Andrew Huneycutt of Leander, TX, Rachel Leslie of Temple, TX, Robert Benjamin Mills of Longview, TX, Elise Ott of Cedar Hill, TX, Emma Noelle Vaught of League City, TX, and Presley Shane Wall of Decatur, TX. Amanda Stockton of Houston, TX, was the scripture reader.
The President's Award, presented to the graduating senior who has provided meritorious service to the university, particularly the senior class, was awarded to Yanelle Licona of Taylor, TX. She was involved in the Student Government Association, Miss Mary Hardin-Baylor Pageant, Kingdom Diversity, Hispanic Student Association, and Student Foundation, and she was a Resident Assistant and studied abroad. The Loyalty Cup, awarded to the student most representative of the university's ideals, traditions, and spirit, was given to two students. Victoria Hernandez of Robstown, TX, was actively involved in campus life and served in many leadership roles on campus. She sang in the chapel worship band, participated in global outreach, Student Ambassadors, Psalms 139, and was Mary in the Easter Pageant. Isabella Ross of Katy, TX, was actively involved in Kingdom Diversity and Gamma Beta Phi and served as a Resident Assistant, Cru Leader, Student Government Class Chaplain, and director of the 2025 Miss Mary Hardin-Baylor Pageant.
