Spring Commencement Ceremonies Honor Academic Achievement, Volunteer Spirit

This spring, more than 6,200 graduates crossed the commencement stage at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, celebrating the culmination of their hard work alongside the friends, family and mentors who supported them. Across eight ceremonies held May 15–17, the university honored not only academic achievement but also the passion for service and leadership that defines the Volunteer spirit.

The graduating class represents 90 counties across Tennessee and includes 817 first-generation college students, 114 student veterans and 53 newly commissioned ROTC cadets. Academic excellence shines through in the 330 honors graduates, 33 national scholarship recipients, and the nearly 90% of undergraduates who received scholarships and grants during their time at UT.

In addition to their success in the classroom, the Class of 2025 completed 152,015 volunteer hours — honoring the commitment they made during their first year at Torch Night: A New Beginning to lead with courage and selflessness.

Rita Geier, who served as associate to the chancellor and senior fellow in the former Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy from 2007 to 2011, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree at the College of Law ceremony on May 15. In her speech, she encouraged graduates to use their talents to serve others and make a lasting impact on the world around them.

“The word I would share with you today as you begin your careers is service,” said Geier. “Volunteer in the spirit of the University of Tennessee. Seize the opportunity and you will find fulfillment in it — greater than your salary. You will find joy in the smiles and the loaf of bread you may receive as compensation for the help that you provide to a person who needed it.”

Chancellor Donde Plowman, who presented Geier with the honor, said, “The granting of an honorary degree is a distinction reserved for those whose life’s work has made the world better, whether through discovery, art, advocacy, leadership or service. Today we add to that list someone who has spent their distinguished career exemplifying the highest ideals of equality, justice and public service.”

Take a look at highlights from the ceremonies.

A graduate celebrates after crossing the stage.

A service dog wears a mortarboard while sitting with its owner, a graduate.

A graduate celebrates with supporters outside Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center.

Army and Air Force ROTC cadets are commissioned.

A graduate records herself turning her tassel.

A graduate looks to supporters in the crowd.

Rita Geier, who received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree, addresses graduates at the College of Law ceremony.

Graduates talk with Chancellor Donde Plowman and UT System President Randy Boyd.

Graduates fill the commencement floor inside Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center.

A graduate smiles and gives a double thumbs-up.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Maggie Palmer (865-974-3993, mpalme19@utk.edu)