Southern Miss Holds Fall 2023 Commencement Exercises

Tue, 12/12/2023 - 11:05am | By: David Tisdale

Approximately 1,300 students were candidates for degrees at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) for the fall 2023 semester. Undergraduate and graduate students participating in USM’s commencement exercises received their diplomas during ceremonies held Dec. 7 and 8 at Reed Green Coliseum on the Hattiesburg campus.

Graduate students were awarded doctoral, master’s and specialist’s degrees during the Dec. 7 graduation ceremony, while undergraduate degrees were awarded during two commencements Dec. 8.

USM President Dr. Joseph S. Paul congratulated graduates and presented diplomas at each event. He was joined by other members of his administration as well as university faculty and staff in marking the milestone achievements of the school’s students.

For Ka’Lon Duncanson, graduation represented the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance – a journey filled with challenges, growth, and self-discovery, making the achievement of a degree even more meaningful.

“My experience at USM has been transformative,” said Duncanson, who served as Student Government Association (SGA) President for the USM Gulf Park Campus in Long Beach. “It is a place of diverse perspectives, offering me the chance to engage with a wide array of ideas, cultures, and people. The challenging academic environment has pushed me to expand my intellectual horizons and develop critical thinking skills. The faculty and staff have played a crucial role in my development, serving as mentors and guides along the way.”

Beyond the classroom, Duncanson’s involvement in campus activities contributed significantly to his personal growth. “These experiences have taught me leadership, teamwork, and effective communication skills that extend far beyond the academic realm,” he explained. “Serving as SGA president has allowed me to make a meaningful impact on campus life. It has given me a platform to advocate for the needs and concerns of my fellow students, fostering a sense of community and unity.” His post-graduation plans include continuing his commitment to leadership and service and starting work on his master’s degree in Economic Development at USM. 

Dr. Delores McNair, USM assistant dean of students for student outreach and support, received her Ed.D. in higher education administration during the Dec. 7 ceremony and described it as “one of the most monumental events in my life.”

“Sharing the stage with Dr. Paul and Dr. [Eddie] Holloway [associate provost of diversity, equity and inclusion] as I was hooded was something I never imagined,” she said. “Southern Miss has truly provided me with endless possibilities through employment and education.  I wish all the fall 2023 graduates continued success.” 

(USM photos by Kelly Dunn)