Lincoln University of Missouri Honors Class of 2024 at Commencement Ceremonies

Lincoln University awarded associate, bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees on Saturday, May 11, 2024.

Lincoln University of Missouri celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2024 on Saturday, May 11, 2024. The commencement ceremonies took place in the Robert and Charlene Mitchell Auditorium in Richardson Fine Arts Center on Lincoln’s campus. The university, which holds distinction with the U.S. Department of Education as a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), awarded associate, bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees. 

President John B. Moseley addresses graduates 

“I join the entire faculty and staff in saying how proud we are of each of you for the great accomplishments you have achieved through the trials and tribulations you have overcome,” said Lincoln University President Dr. John B. Moseley in his address to the graduates. “We will be watching you and cheering you on as you make your way into this world where we know you will drive positive impact in both the local communities where you live and in the broader world.”   

A ceremony for the graduates of the Department of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Department of Humanities and Communication, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Science, Technology and Mathematics and Liberal Studies were recognized at 9 a.m. At 1 p.m., graduates of the School of Business, School of Education and School of Nursing were honored.

Honorary degree recipient and guest speaker Dr. Shaun Harper addresses graduates.

Dr. Shaun Harper, a distinguished racial equity expert, was the guest speaker at both commencement ceremonies. As a provost professor at the Rossier School of Education, Marshall School of Business and the Price School of Public Policy at the University of Southern California (USC), Dr. Harper is renowned for his prolific research, influential publications and extensive advocacy, shaping national dialogues on education, equity and social justice.

During his address, Dr. Harper emphasized the significance of imagination, urging graduates to envision themselves as catalysts for change and leaders poised to shape the world.

“A United States president could very well be in this Lincoln University Class of 2024,” Dr. Harper said. “I imagine that among us in this fine class of graduates are surgeons, nurses, business executives, attorneys, K-12 schoolteachers, university professors, politicians, journalists, technologists, engineers and others who will lead and advance a wide range of professions.”

Dr. Harper extended his congratulations to the graduates, inviting them to imagine the limitless possibilities their futures hold.

Assata Starks '24 provided the Graduating Student Remarks during the 9 a.m. ceremony.

“But don’t just imagine it — pursue it all, achieve it all and continue to do the very best you can,” Dr. Harper said. “Class of 2024, for the rest of your lives and careers, I urge you to do all that you can to make the seemingly unimaginable — imaginable. Bravo and congratulations.” 

 Jackson Black '24 provided the Graduating Student Remarks during the 1 p.m. ceremony.

The weekend concluded with the 4 p.m. nursing pinning ceremony, a time-honored tradition. During the ceremony, graduates of the Lincoln nursing program were formally inducted into the nursing profession.  

“You are a part of something bigger than each of us as individuals,” Dr. Moseley said. “Graduating today, you are fulfilling the dreams and honoring the sacrifices of the soldiers in the 62nd and 65th Colored Infantries and the lieutenants who established Lincoln Institute, which today stands as Lincoln University of Missouri. Wear that badge with honor. We know you will do great things.”

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Click here to view and download the event program.

Scroll down to view videos from the commencement ceremonies.