Armstrong State University hosted 2016 Spring Commencement on Saturday, May 7, 2016, conferring degrees on more than 800 students, a record number, in a special ceremony at the Savannah Civic Center.
 
Armstrong recognized students receiving master degrees, bachelor degrees and associate degrees in a wide range of fields. Students from the College of Liberal Arts, College of Education, College of Health Professions and College of Science and Technology marched in a colorful processional of sparkling and flower-crowned caps before being honored by Armstrong officials.

University President Dr. Linda M. Bleicken warmly welcomed the 2016 graduates and their families to Spring Commencement. Lt. Gen. Edward C. Cardon, the Commanding General for the U.S. Army Cyber Command and Second Army -- who has served with numerous combat units, educated students at the United States Army Engineer School and received nearly a dozen military honors -- delivered the commencement address.

“Today, there is a lot of pride, excitement and hope,” Cardon told Armstrong’s class of 2016. “But you didn’t get here without a lot of hard work, faith and perseverance.”

To that end, Cardon encouraged students to remember that their hard-earned degrees are starting points, not end points, in our ever-changing world, directed by the rapid advance of technology and the unrelenting pervasiveness of social media. He challenged them to think about the choices they make in life.

“As you pursue your goals, please consider using your talents to live a life full of purpose and meaning,” said Cardon. “Armstrong State University has given you the education to move on. Build a life you’ll be proud of.”

Graduate Johnathan Davis, a military veteran and Texas native who earned a B.S. in Biology, plans on doing just that.

Davis, who plans to attend dental school after graduation, says Armstrong prepared him by offering exceptional veteran services that directly supported his educational goals.
 
“Armstrong has been great,” he noted. “The professors are very personable with students. The university is also very veteran-friendly. Anything you need, they’ll give you a helping hand.”
 
Sarah Woods, a transfer student who earned a B.A. in Psychology, chose Armstrong specifically for the strength of the Psychology program and its professors.

“I felt previous schools didn’t have the same amount of passion for the department,” Woods said. “I love this place. It’s very unique. There is a very strong sense of community. I’m really going to miss Armstrong.”