Celebrating Black excellence at UTA
The University of Texas at Arlington hosted a celebration of African American culture and achievement to honor this year’s Black graduates.
Family and friends came together at An Evening of Black Excellence to celebrate nearly 150 graduates ahead of UTA’s commencement ceremonies at Globe Life Field last week.
“This is yet another joyous occasion that the graduates have not only dreamed of, but worked extremely hard for,” said Shabaz Brown, director of the Office of Cultural Engagement and Social Change.
College of Nursing and Health Innovation graduate Jasmine Shaw said she has been on a long journey to receive her nursing degree. After battling many hardships, Shaw will begin her pediatric nursing residency at Children’s Medical Center in July.
“I’m beyond excited to be graduating, and to have a night like tonight to be recognized is very special,” she said.
As students had their names called and crossed the stage, they were presented with Kente stoles from members of the African American Faculty and Staff Association and the Center for African American Studies.
Tamara Brown, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, told graduates the evening was not about how long it took them to get here, but that they were ready to go forward.
“I’m so proud of you for hanging in there and getting to this point,” Brown said. “Live a life of purpose and commit yourself to continual self-improvement, because this is all just the beginning.”