FMU graduates record number of S.C. residents
Francis Marion University graduated a record number of South Carolina residents in the fall class of 2021 during two commencement ceremonies. FMU awarded a total of 248 degrees at the ceremonies, held at the Smith University Center on the university’s campus on Dec. 17-18. Of those who graduated, 97 percent were residents of the Palmetto State, the highest percentage of any class in the university’s history. Diplomas awarded this semester included 179 baccalaureate, and 69 master’s and specialist’s degrees. Graduates from the School of Education and School of Health Sciences received diplomas Dec. 17, while those from the School of Business and College of Liberal Arts were celebrated Dec. 18. The School of Health Sciences awarded 54 undergraduate degrees as part of the fall 2021 contingent. The School of Business had 31 undergraduates, and the School of Education presented 12 undergraduates with diplomas. Dividing the schools and colleges into two ceremonies assured adequate social distancing among graduates and their guests. As has been the case throughout the pandemic, no honorary doctorates were awarded and there was no guest commencement speaker. Francis Marion President Fred Carter addressed the graduates, congratulating them on their achievement and reminding them that their accomplishment can make an impact beyond their own story. “Graduation is an enormous achievement, and you’ll remember this ceremony very vividly decades from now, along with the smiles and laughter from your family and friends,” Carter said. “And your own story? Well, it’s the most important one in the room right now, and that story will be even more important in the years ahead. You see, with this education, you’re not simply taking your place in society – you’re carving your own niche – a niche which may very well change the world.”