FSU concludes commencement ceremonies for the class of 2015
Gene Deckerhoff, FSU Athletics Hall of Fame member, Florida Sports Hall of Fame member and “Voice of the Seminoles,” delivered FSU graduation speech on Dec. 12.
Photo by Bre-Shara McCal
By Bre-Shara McCall
Outlook Writer
On Dec. 12, Florida State University (FSU) concluded the class of 2015 Fall commencement exercises.
To begin the ceremony, President John Thrasher issued the welcome to thousands of graduates, friends and family members.
Jean Tabares, student body president, gave some encouraging words to his fellow graduates as they embark on new journeys. “Several years ago, we sat in classrooms waiting and wondering what we would do for the rest of our lives,” said Tabares. “After today’s commencement, go and venture into your future, not with uncertainty, but with a sense of preparedness. The possibilities are limitless.”
Following Tabares, President Thrasher introduced keynote speaker, Mr. Gene Deckerhoff. Deckerhoff is a member of the Florida Sports Hall of Fame, the FSU Athletics Hall of Fame and has been the “Voice of the Seminoles” since 1979.
During his speech, Deckerhoff shared his most memorable moments during his career. He also mentioned he never attended Florida State as an undergraduate but his involvement with the university opened many doors for him as a sports announcer. “I never went to FSU, but football is all I know,” said Deckerhoff. Deckerhoff concluded his speech with his signature saying “TOUCHDOWN FSU, TOUCHDOWN NOLES!”
President Thrasher returned to the lectern again to grant the academic degrees. Deans from each college were called up to read off the names of their graduates as they walked across the stage, shaking the hands of President Thrasher and other university dignitaries. Master and doctoral graduates were granted their degrees in their respective subjects shortly after.
For the final time, Thrasher stood at the lectern to congratulate the FSU class of 2015 and close out the ceremony with a presentation of the Alma Mater.
Candice Wilson and husband James, expressed their excitement for their niece who had just graduated. “We are so proud of her, she has worked so hard these past years and now she can apply that knowledge to the real world.”
