A Message from the President

Presiding over Commencement is a privilege that I look forward to each semester. The ceremonial traditions are important nods to history, and some date back to the twelfth century when graduation ceremonies were first instituted in Europe. Students are awarded degrees or “graduate” in “commencement” celebratory events. I love the word “commencement.” It is fitting to celebrate graduates who are beginning a new phase of their lives with new opportunities. It’s incredibly rewarding for faculty and staff to witness what happens inside the Johnson Coliseum at Commencement. We see joy—and sometimes relief—on the faces of thousands of family members in recognition that this day is their day too.

Many families dream of a future for their children that they have anticipated their whole lives. They often send them off to college to achieve upward mobility, each generation hoping the next one will have it a little easier and will be able to achieve more. Nowhere is this more evident than at Sam Houston State University. US News & World Report recently included social mobility in its 2022 Best College rankings. It comes as no surprise to me that Sam Houston State ranked No. 1 in Texas and No. 24 in the nation as more than 50 percent of our graduates are the first in their family to earn a college degree. This issue of the Heritage celebrates our ranking and our graduates’ accomplishments.

I believe everyone should have an opportunity to earn a college education. Preparing students for meaningful lives of achievement, no matter their backgrounds or personal circumstances, is at the heart of what we do every day at Sam Houston State; Commencement is the pinnacle of that achievement.

Upon graduation, our students leave with purpose and endless possibilities, and I could not be more proud.

Alisa White
President, Sam Houston State University