There are thousands of things that occur on a college campus every day. Nearly every one of them is so that students, one day, can graduate and celebrate that moment with their families and friends. A commencement is the most important thing we do and a celebration of all that we represent. It is the most formal activity a university does. As “academics” we show this tradition, respect, and importance by 1) attending and participating in the ceremony, and 2) the wearing of our most formal attire — the academic regalia many see as our colorful caps and gowns.

To a university president, the commencement is the single most important thing one could do — to award to a graduate, in front of all those attending, their degree and diploma. When a president shakes that graduate’s hand, it is the culmination of years of hard work by the student and our faculty and staff, all symbolized in the short seconds of a ceremony. In that brief moment, we are acknowledging the many challenges that each graduate has overcome and the tremendous support involved in getting each graduate across that stage. We are also acknowledging the commitment of every professor and staff member who did their very best to help graduate that student. Personally, I vividly remember every one of the graduation ceremonies where I have played this role. It is very meaningful, emotional, and moving.

Commencements are also about families. It is difficult to hold back the tears of joy when seeing the pride family members have when their graduating students cross that stage.

As parents, when a child is born we wonder: What will become of our child? How will they grow up? Will they like sports? What work will they do in life? Who will become their life’s partner? Will they one day have children themselves? Will they be happy and healthy? We also wonder if they will earn a college degree. At this moment, one of those questions has been answered — they have earned that college degree.

Worldwide, those with college degrees represent only 10% of the population. By earning a degree that graduate automatically becomes a part of that distinctive group who are expected to serve their community, society, church, family, and profession differently. And adding to the excitement at Humboldt State University, nearly half of our graduates are first-generation — they are the first in their families to earn a college degree (Many members of our campus leadership team are also first-generation, and it is very meaningful for them to see themselves reflected in these graduates).

We want every graduate, and as many of their friends as possible, to experience being part of a commencement ceremony. That’s why, this year, we added a fall commencement ceremony at Humboldt State.

This fall commencement, our newest tradition, will be at 3 p.m., Friday, Dec. 17 in Lumberjack Arena, and can also be viewed live online. More information, and soon a link to the livestream, is at https://commencement.humboldt.edu/

We will recognize graduates from all three of our colleges at this single ceremony. Of course, COVID safety rules will be in full effect, including requirements for a face covering as well as proof of vaccination or recent negative test within 72 hours.

Neighbors and friends, if you see these graduates and their families, please join us in congratulating them. Please know that the communities surrounding Humboldt State have been an important part of the college experience for many graduates, and that these communities will be part of their cherished memories as alumni.

Dr. Tom Jackson is the president of Humboldt State University.