RCW: 2017 University of Kansas Commencement

By definition, graduation is: the ceremony of conferring degrees or diplomas, as at a college or school.

In addition, commencement/graduation is: the ultimate goal to be achieved by a student.

Among the thousands of University of Kansas graduates at Memorial Stadium for Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 14 were KU student-athletes who took part in the traditional walk through the Campanile near the top of Mount Oread and “down the Hill” into the football stadium.
 
“Run toward the people in need. Run toward the chaos. Run toward the situations where you can make a difference,” KU Chancellor Dr. Bernadette Gray-Little said to the graduates in her final KU commencement ceremony address as Chancellor.
 
Prior to the procession down the Hill and into Memorial Stadium, KU student-athletes, coaches and staffs from basketball, football, softball, swimming & diving and soccer met up just outside of Strong Hall for group photos to commemorate the special day.
 
Unfortunately, not all of the more than 109 KU graduating student-athletes had the opportunity to participate in the 2017 graduation festivities. On that particular Sunday, the KU track & field team was hosting the Big 12 Outdoor Championship at Rock Chalk Park, baseball was playing host to Kansas State and the rowing team was at its league competition in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. In addition, KU men’s golf was playing its practice round for the NCAA Regional in Austin, Texas. 

Congratulations to all of the 2017 University of Kansas graduates, but especially to the Jayhawk student-athletes who have spent their collegiate years donning the Crimson and Blue. We are proud of you!