ST. GEORGE, Utah – Dixie State University recognized its largest-ever graduating class during this unprecedented year, awarding 2,388 degrees to 2,021 graduates.
Local graduates include Hayley Alvarado of Menifee, who earned an associate degree; Arlene Avalos of Temecula, who earned an associate degree in applied science; Alyssa De Long of Murrieta, who earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing; Diana Gonzalez of Murrieta, who earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing; Avery Hoskins of Lake Elsinore, who earned an associate degree; Bryn Jones of Murrieta, who earned an associate degree; Emily Lowitz of Murrieta, who earned an associate degree; Sean Reid of Murrieta, who earned a bachelor’s degree in individualized studies and Hayden Rowe of Canyon Lake, who earned an associate degree.
“The university is excited to celebrate the accomplishments of our largest graduating class in DSU’s history,” Dixie State University president Richard B. Williams said. “I am confident these graduates will continue to carry on DSU’s tradition of excellence as they leave our great university well prepared and poised for success.”
Dixie State University’s 109th graduating class includes 17 master’s candidates, 860 baccalaureate candidates, 943 associate candidates and 568 certificate candidates. Of these graduates, the majority – 63% – are female and students range in age from 17 to 68 years.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the university’s initial commencement ceremony plans, originally scheduled for May 1, this graduating class will still be honored with a traditional commencement. Based on feedback provided from the graduating students, an in-person ceremony will be held Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in the M. Anthony Burns Arena on campus, dependent on no social distancing guidelines being in effect at that time.
“Commencement signifies a great accomplishment and a milestone for our graduates. It is the celebration of their completed journey at Dixie State and the beginning of forging their own path,” Dixie State University Provost Michael Lacourse said. “Although we are not physically celebrating commencement May 1, we are doing everything we can to ensure our Trailblazer graduates know how proud we are of them until we can congratulate them in person when we host our official Commencement Ceremony Dec. 11.”
Dixie State University is a premier open-enrollment teaching institution that offers more than 200 academic programs at one of the lowest tuition costs in the Western United States. The University was built upon a rich tradition of determination and generosity that is still embraced by the campus community today. With the motto “Active learning. Active life.” Dixie State University provides personalized and engaged learning experiences that prepare students for rewarding careers and enriched lives. Outside of the classroom, students have the opportunity to enjoy the unparalleled opportunities for an active life that accompany the university’s location in beautiful Southern Utah.
To learn more about Dixie State University visit https://dixie.edu and for details about Dixie State University’s 109th Commencement Ceremony, visit https://dixie.edu/commencement.
Submitted by Dixie State University.
