By Christian Appleton
East Harper, Maryland County – In a momentous celebration of academic achievement, 343 students from William V. S. Tubman University (TU) graduated with degrees in various disciplines, marking the university’s 11th Commencement Convocation. The ceremony, held at the university’s Pavilion on December 2, 2024, was attended by dignitaries from within Liberia and abroad, faculty members, family, friends, and well-wishers.
Founded in honor of Liberia’s 19th president, William V.S. Tubman, Tubman University is the country’s second public university, offering programs in business, engineering, education, health sciences, agriculture, and environmental science. The event was preceded by a Baccalaureate Service on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at 10 A.M., also held at the Pavilion.
Rev. Dr. Alvin E. Attah, President of the African Methodist Episcopal University (AMEU), delivered the Baccalaureate sermon. In his moving address, Dr. Attah spoke on the theme “Leaving Footprints Behind,” urging graduates to create a lasting legacy that would inspire future generations. He reflected on the enduring footprints left by notable leaders such as Jesus Christ, Nelson Mandela, Kenneth Kaunda, William V.S. Tubman and Dr. Elizabeth Davis Russell, encouraging students to emulate their commitment to leadership, service, and impact.
Dr. Attah also shared a personal story from his childhood about watching his grandmother pop popcorn, using it as an analogy for life’s journey. “Success comes at different times—do not envy others who are flourishing; your turn will come,” he advised, urging graduates to trust the timing of their personal growth.
The commencement ceremony, held the following day, saw participants from various national and international dignitaries, including Col. Gregory Coleman, Inspector General of the Liberia National Police (LNP), and leaders from AMEU, Partners in Health, the Catholic Diocese of Cape Palmas, and delegates from the University of San Pedro.
In his keynote address, Col. Gregory Coleman emphasized the importance of hard work, dedication, and resilience. He urged graduates to embrace challenges and cultivate passion, stressing that integrity, service, collaboration, and community engagement should guide their professional journeys. “Your life is about to take
on a new shape and form,” he said, advising graduates to approach the uncertainties of life as opportunities for growth.
Col. Coleman further noted that true innovation often emerges from the unknown. “Embrace uncertainty—it is a space for growth that discovers development,” he encouraged, motivating graduates to reflect on their past as they forge ahead into the future with passion and purpose.
Dr. Olu Q. Menjay, the president of Tubman University, also addressed the graduates, providing an update on the university’s progress. He highlighted the institution’s academic development and the improvements made through ongoing dialogue with students, faculty, staff, and community leaders. Dr. Menjay described the academic year 2023/2024 as a turning point, noting the challenges faced and the new opportunities embraced by the university.
“By strengthening educational partnerships at local, national, and global levels, we open doors of opportunity for our students,” Dr. Menjay stated, emphasizing the university’s commitment to growth and innovation. He also mentioned that Tubman University was in the process of formalizing partnerships with businesses to provide students with real-world learning opportunities.
Effort Wesseh, the valedictorian from the College of Health Sciences, delivered the valedictory address. In his remarks, Wesseh expressed gratitude to family, friends, and faculty members for their unwavering support throughout their academic journey. He also acknowledged the invaluable role of the faculty in shaping the knowledge and skills of the graduates.
This year’s commencement ceremony celebrated not only the hard work and perseverance of the graduates but also the progress and growth of Tubman University as it continues to advance its mission of providing quality education and preparing students for success in a dynamic world.
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