Forward Together: President's May 2024 Message

It’s always a privilege to usher our graduates across the finish line at each semester’s commencement ceremonies, and our spring 2024 graduates were indeed an impressive group.  

• A total of 2,709 degrees and certificates were awarded to 2,461 students; several students received more than one degree or certificate. That includes 75 doctorates, 959 master’s or post-master’s, 1,378 bachelor’s degrees, 27 associates and 270 professional certificates.  
• 9% of our grads are veterans, active-duty military or military dependents.  
• 60.7% of our graduates are from Kansas, 11.6% are out-of-state students from 39 U.S. states, and 27.7% are international students from 55 countries.  
• 41.6% have the honor of being first in their families to earn a degree.  
• 2.8% completed their degrees while also competing in Shocker athletics. Additionally, Wichita State’s student-athletes collectively earned the second highest grade-point average in university history, coming in at 3.399.  
• 100% of our graduates are now part of a proud Shocker legacy, ready to make their mark on the world along with more than 110,000 other Shocker graduates. 

It’s also noteworthy that most of these students spent at least a year attending college virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While this was a trying and uncertain time for all of us, these graduates are the epitome of grit, determination and resilience. Those hard-fought traits will serve them well throughout their lives, and they will be reflected in their work ethic and leadership abilities as they move forward in their careers.  

We’ve compiled a handful of stories from some of our graduates, and I invite you to visit our spring 2024 Meet a Shocker page to learn more about them. I also had the opportunity to talk with recent grad and former Student Body President Iris Okere on my “Forward Together” podcast earlier this month, and I hope you take a few minutes and listen to her talk about her experiences as a Shocker in a student leadership position.   

To our Shocker graduates: You are remarkable. Your journey has been one of perseverance, adaptability and relentless pursuit of excellence. As you step into the next chapter of your lives, carry forward the spirit of innovation and community that defines Wichita State. We are proud of all you have accomplished and excited to see the positive impact you will undoubtedly make in the world. Remember, you will always be a part of the Shocker family. Stay connected, share your successes and continue to inspire us all. 

Go Shockers!