Congratulations to SEMO graduates

It will be a memorable day on Saturday for hundreds of students, parents and other family members as Southeast Missouri State University holds its winter commencement.

The university will recognize 740 students with a 2 p.m. ceremony Saturday at the Show Me Center. The list of graduates includes 574 undergraduates, 118 graduate and specialist students and four students who will receive a doctorate through the cooperative program. Delivering the commencement address will be U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill.

At 10:30 a.m. there will be 253 students honored at the Honors Convocation. Delivering the keynote speech for this ceremony will be Dr. Mike Aide, an agriculture professor at the university, chair of the agriculture department and 2013 recipient of Southeast's Faculty Merit Award.

Commencement is a special time for students and their family and friends. The atmosphere is one filled with joy, proud moments and celebration.

We congratulate the students who will cross the stage to receive their diplomas. This is the culmination of significant work, sacrifice and commitment.

Parents, spouses and friends also can play a role in the life of a college graduate. Whether it's the parent sacrificing so a son or daughter can go to school, or a husband or wife working hard so a spouse can finish a degree, this ceremony is in part thanks to your efforts.

We wish each of you a day of joy as you celebrate a milestone.

Congratulations!