SIUE Golden Graduates Virtual Commencement | Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Ceremony Opening and Welcome

Ceremony Opening

Welcome to SIUE's virtual Golden Graduate commencement! Please proceed through the ceremony by clicking the side arrows, or selecting specific portions of this virtual event through the drop-down menu at the top of this image. Thank you for joining us as we honor our 2021 Golden Graduates!

2021 Golden Graduate Program

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National Anthem

Please stand, if you are able, for the presentation of our flag and "The Star Spangled Banner," played by the Meridian Brass Quintet and led by Michael Hawkins, a musical Theater Student in the College of Arts and Sciences.

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Provost Cobb Welcome

Provost Cobb welcomes the Golden Graduates.

Remarks from the Chancellor

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Remarks from the Chancellor

Dr. Randy Pembrook is the ninth chancellor of SIUE and an SIUE alumnus. The University community is grateful for his leadership and commitment.

Remarks from the SIU System President

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Remarks from the SIU System President

Dr. Daniel Mahony is the 10th president of the Southern Illinois University System. His student-focused leadership greatly benefits SIUE.

Honors and Awards

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Honorary Degree Recognition

Congratulations to honorary degree recipient Lawrence Heitz. In 1969, Mr. Heitz claimed the title of “first person to graduate from SIUE with an MBA.” In addition to his impressive career and significant community commitments, he established an award to recognize an SIUE School of Business faculty member for excellence in research and scholarship, is a member of the 2011 SIUE Alumni Hall of Fame and is a spring 2021 Golden Graduate.

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Distinguished Service Award Recognition

Congratulations to alumna, professor emerita, former SIU Board of Trustees member and Golden Graduate Dr. Shirley Portwood. An accomplished and prolific writer, researcher and storyteller, this award is bestowed in appreciation for her dedication and service to the University, and the countless students who the longtime educator positively impacted.