Friday afternoon sent a new crop of MSU graduates on their way out into their future.
The Spring Convocation ceremony took place at Breslin Center, observed by friends and family of the graduating class.
Graduating students welcome future at convocation
Communications senior Maddie Hopkins chants along with the "Michigan State Fight Song" during the Spring Convocation ceremony May 2, 2014, at Breslin Center. Graduating seniors were honored as a whole prior to individual college commencement ceremonies. Danyelle Morrow/The State News
The commencement address was given by philanthropist Azim Premji, chairman of IT company Wipro Ltd.
The ceremony consisted of several speakers including MSU Board of Trustees Chairperson Joel Ferguson and President Lou Anna K. Simon.
On a day filled with smiles, handshakes and wishes of good luck, Simon made it a point to look back on the words of former President John A. Hannah, who once spoke of the special bond MSU forms with its graduates.
"When commencement is concluded, Michigan State University places its stamp of approval upon you," Simon said. "You become part of this university forever."
Graduates were adorned in gold cords, white stoles embroidered with "HC" for the distinction of Honors College and green gowns, some with decorated caps.
Many graduating students were honored for their exceptional grades, earning recognition and honor for various scholarships.
"Although much has changed along the banks of the Red Cedar since I first enrolled in 1970, the core values of the university remain," Simon said. "Quality, inclusiveness and connectivity."
Graduation is a crossing of the threshold for the senior class. But for the younger siblings and underclassmen who will soon follow the footsteps of the class of 2014, graduation is a glimpse into the future.
Education freshman Elena Tantillo came to watch her sister graduate. After the concluding remarks, she excitedly clapped along with the senior class as they sang along with the MSU Wind Symphony, who played the alma mater.
"It makes me feel proud to be here," Tantillo said.
The class of graduates leaving MSU behind as they move on, sang and clapped along with MSU's fight song and swayed arm in arm to two stanzas of the alma mater.
"It's bittersweet," member of the graduating class and human biology senior Aaron Barto said. "I'm excited to move on."
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Simon gave the concluding remarks to the sea of graduates clad in green, conveying an inspirational message.
"Forever starts now," she said. "Spartans, go green and come home often."
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