ALAMOSA, COLORADO (September 14, 2020) — Chelsey Thomsen from Bettendorf graduated from Adams State University, Alamosa, Colorado, during the Spring 2020 Virtual Commencement Ceremony, on June 6. Thomsen received a MA:Counseling-School Counseling. Adams State awarded 355 undergraduate degrees.
In the nearly 100 years Adams State University has been awarding diplomas, the virtual ceremony was perhaps the most heartfelt. A combination of both live performances and speeches as well as special video messages brought on a surge of social-media engagement as the Adams State University Class of Spring 2020 received their degrees.
"It is truly an honor to join you in celebrating this extraordinary accomplishment under extraordinary circumstances," said Daneya Esgar, chair of the Colorado Legislature's Joint Budget Committee, who served as the commencement keynote speaker. Esgar and Colorado Governor Jared Polis addressed the graduates through pre-taped recordings.
"Our young voices have always been the drivers of change and we need it now more than ever before," Esgar added.
In and out of the classroom, Adams State students learn the necessary skills to communicate, engage, and act in the best interest for their careers, personal relationships, community, and current events. This was evident in the messages by undergraduates Mariah McDermott and Hubert Price.
McDermott and Price, both first-generation students, earned bachelor degrees in political science. Price recognized his single mother, who taught him about resilience, including supporting others, to keep going despite challenges, and to use failure as an opportunity to grow.
McDermott appreciated Adams State for welcoming students who have faced challenges and supporting them through tough times. "We do not know what will come from this changing world, but we are prepared to adapt, persevere, and change."
Departments across campus worked together to provide a livestream with uplifting elements. Performances by music graduates Caleb Clark and Miriam Lipke as well as music faculty William Lipke DMA and Matthew Valverde DMA were highlights of the ceremony.
Adams State University Board of Trustees Chair Michele Lueck inspired students to remember and celebrate their achievements. Brief videos by Denver Broncos Dalton Riser and Courtland Sutton added to the special celebration.
The recent graduates are invited to participate in the spring 2021 Commencement Ceremony.
