MTSU summer ’st graduates praised for ‘doing the work’
MTSU celebrated 825 new graduates of the Class of 2021 for persevering through the pandemic during its summer commencement ceremony held Aug. 7 inside Murphy Center.
The graduating class comprised 607 undergraduates and 218 graduate scholars. That graduate figure includes 189 master’s degree recipients, eight education specialist degree recipients and 21 doctoral recipients, along with 12 graduate students who received certificates for their advanced study. Five undergraduate students also received certificates.
“You learned something very valuable while you were here because you’re sitting here in your regalia. What you learned was not just your academic field; you also learned to do something, and I want you to say it with me,” said guest speaker and MTSU human sciences professor Rick Cottle, leading the new graduates, and then their supporters, in shouting “We showed up. And we did the work.”
“I’ve found pretty much that life is all about showing up and doing the work,” continued Cottle, speaking on behalf of all the students’ professors as the 2020-21 president of the University’s Faculty Senate.
The Aug. 7 event was the second to return to MTSU’S traditional Murphy Center commencement site in 2021 following virtual graduations in spring and summer 2020 and outdoor ceremonies in Floyd Stadium last fall.
University President Sidney A. Mcphee commended summer graduates, like thousands of others during the past 18 months, for their commitment.
“As I’ve said before, no one could have predicted the enormous impact a previously unknown virus would have on our nation and our global community,” Mcphee said. “I know that many of you would not have chosen to persist through an academic year with so many unknowns, so many changes to your routine.
“Whether you struggled, discovered a new appreciation for the possibilities of remote learning, or surprised yourself by thriving, I know none of it was easy. That is why I am so grateful that you accepted the challenge with the determination for which our students are known.”