ETSU Honors Over 2,000 Graduates at Esteemed Spring Commencement

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — East Tennessee State University (ETSU) hosted its 2025 Spring Commencement ceremony on Saturday.

Two thousand twelve graduates received master’s, bachelor’s, and doctoral degrees. ETSU President Brian Noland stated that one-third of these students were first-generation graduates.

“I had a chance to shake the hand of a young man earlier today that I’ve known since he was in the second grade,” Noland said, “And to see him walk across the stage and receive his degree was really powerful. To see undergraduate students whom I had the honor to meet in high school and to see doctoral students who will now go on and carry on the flag of the faculty.”

“So across the board, it’s just a wonderful day on our campus for both our families, their families, and families all across the region,” he said.

Noland stated that he imparts three key points for this semester's graduates to keep in mind:

To start with, recall the emotions of this day and share them with an unsure neighbor or friend to inspire them to pursue higher education. Secondly, express gratitude as tomorrow marks Mother’s Day, acknowledging those who made significant sacrifices for your aspirations. Lastly, recognize that learning continues beyond today; your educational journey remains ongoing.

Dr. Brian Noland

Rogersville's Missy Testerman, who has been named the 2024-2025 Tennessee Teacher of the Year, delivered one of the keynote addresses at the graduation ceremony.

You are entering a realm that is complex; indeed, yet brimming with potential," Testerman stated during her address. "Your mission isn’t to resolve every issue. Instead, it’s to locate the point where your enthusiasm aligns with the world’s requirements, and start from there.

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