MILLERSVILLE, Pa. — With Pomp and Circumstance, the Class of 2024 is set to go out into the world.
On Saturday, more than a thousand students were given their degrees at Millersville University. Many of those students are having their first proper graduation, after finishing high school during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Not having a graduation my senior year of high school was very hard," said Somer Barrett, a Millersville University graduate. "It was very challenging having that time taken away from me.”
“Connor was a 2020 high school graduate, and we had a hybrid graduation," said Colleen Hayes, the mother of a Millersville graduate. "So, this is his first real taste of what a commencement looks like.”
Hundreds of parents packed the Pucillo Gym on campus and cheered as their kids walked the stage. Parents Charlene and David Kline said they were happy to see their son, Kyle, finally experience graduation with his classmates.
"I feel like he got robbed a little bit back in 2020 with COVID," said Charlene Kline. “I’m very happy he’s going to have that experience."
"Which everyone should have,” added David Kline.
Friends, family, and faculty all cheered the Class of 2024, as they became official graduates of Millersville University.
“I’m really glad my family gets to see all the accomplishments I’ve made finally pay off," said Joseph Favoroso.
“It took a group effort for everyone to get here today," said Sean Harris. "It’s awesome to be here with the people who helped me get to where I’m at right now."