News Summary
Paine College held its 143rd Commencement Convocation on May 14, 2023, featuring keynote speaker Senator Raphael Warnock. The event celebrated 35 graduates and emphasized themes of school pride and community support, particularly highlighting alumni participation from the Class of 1975 during their 50th reunion. President Lester A. McCorn and local leaders reinforced the significance of education and resilience in the lives of the graduates, marking a pivotal moment in their academic journeys.
Augusta, Georgia – Paine College celebrated its 143rd Commencement Convocation on Sunday, May 14, 2023, welcoming hundreds of visitors, primarily families of the graduates, to the HEAL Complex. The ceremony featured 35 graduation candidates and was presided over by President Lester A. McCorn. Among the notable attendees were Senator Raphael Warnock, who delivered the keynote address, and Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson.
The importance of school pride was a central theme of the event, which was particularly highlighted by the presence of alumni from the Class of 1975, marking their 50th reunion. President McCorn noted that the concept of “Lion Pride” reflected preeminence, respect, integrity, dignity, and excellence. He emphasized the role of student leaders in fostering this pride among their peers, which contributed to the strong sense of community celebrated during the ceremony.
Senator Warnock, an alumnus of Morehouse College and a friend of President McCorn, addressed the graduates with an inspiring message. He acknowledged the unique history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) like Paine College and recognized the sacrifices that students and their families made to reach this milestone. He encouraged graduates to remain resilient in the face of challenges, reflecting on his own experiences and obstacles throughout his journey.
In his speech, Warnock reiterated his commitment to advocating for diversity and supporting underserved communities in both urban and rural areas. His presence at the commencement added a significant layer to the celebratory atmosphere, as the event coincided with Mother’s Day, making it a special occasion for many families present.
Paine College, founded in 1882, has a rich legacy of education and community service, focusing on providing a quality education to students from diverse backgrounds. The commencement ceremony is a vital tradition at the college, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication by the graduating class. This year’s event not only highlighted the achievements of the graduates but reinforced the institution’s ongoing commitment to excellence in education and community engagement.
The participation of key community figures like Senator Warnock and Mayor Johnson further emphasizes the importance of local support for educational institutions and the impact they have on society. As graduates embark on the next chapter of their lives, the encouragement and recognition from influential leaders can serve as a motivating factor in their future endeavors.
The focus on school pride and community at the commencement ceremony resonates with Paine College’s mission to foster a strong sense of belonging among students and alumni alike. As the institution moves forward, it continues to celebrate achievements while nurturing the development of future leaders who will contribute positively to their communities.
The 143rd Commencement Convocation at Paine College exemplifies the college’s commitment to honoring its students’ hard work and emphasizing the significance of support, resilience, and community in the pursuit of educational goals.
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Sen. Warnock Gives Keynote Speech Paine College Graduation
- Wikipedia: Paine College
- WFXG: Sen. Warnock Joins Paine College’s 2025 Graduation Ceremony
- Google Search: Historically Black Colleges and Universities
- Augusta Press: Sen. Raphael Warnock Speaks at Paine College Convocation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Commencement Ceremony
- AJC: Tiny Paine College Looking for Lifeline
