OHIO Online hosts Virtual Graduation Recognition Ceremony for Fall 2024 graduates

More than 120 online students celebrated their achievements during an online graduation recognition event Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, marking the end of the Fall 2024 semester at Ohio University.

The event, hosted via a live-streaming platform, brought together graduates, families, and faculty from around the world in a dynamic and accessible format. The virtual setting allowed participants to celebrate in a unique and inclusive way, ensuring loved ones from anywhere could join the milestone event.

The keynote address was delivered by Ohio University alumnus Timothy Bath (MBA’19). Bath shared an inspiring message about resilience and innovation in the face of challenges. He also spoke about the strength of the OHIO Online MBA program and how the skills he honed while being an online student helped him secure his current full-time position.

The ceremony included remarks from Kari Lehman, Ohio University vice provost for OHIO Online, who congratulated the Class of Fall 2024 for their dedication and adaptability. She also engaged online participants through the event's synchronous chat features.

“We are incredibly proud of our graduates for their hard work, perseverance, and achievements,” Lehman said. “This recognition event provided a meaningful opportunity to celebrate their success alongside their families and friends, honoring the dedication it takes to reach this milestone.”

During the event, graduates were recognized individually, with their names and degrees read aloud and displayed on-screen. Faculty and staff members from various departments recorded congratulatory messages, adding a personal touch to the celebration.

Two 2024 graduates, Erielle Reed, who earned a Master of Science in Food and Nutrition Studies, and James Weiskittel, who earned a Master of Communication, were featured in videos where they shared their stories about pursuing their education and their experiences as online students at Ohio University. Both graduates described the sense of community they felt in their online program and how they remained connected and supported by OHIO while earning their degrees.

The virtual ceremony concluded with remarks from Joseph Becherer (BFA ’97, MFA ’90), chair of the Ohio University Alumni Association Board of Directors. Becherer reflected on his own time at Ohio University and welcomed the new graduates to the alumni family.

“Bobcats help Bobcats. And more than that, Bobcats celebrate, embrace, and encourage Bobcats. Welcome to this community,” Becherer said. He also shared several ways graduates can stay connected and involved through the Alumni Association.

“While any Ohio University student is welcome to attend our Athens Campus Commencement Ceremony, we wanted to provide a space for students to celebrate their accomplishments with their community in the same modality as their educational experiences,” said Kathy Wilson, senior director for affinity programs and student engagement.

OHIO Online plans to host another online recognition event for students at the end of the Spring 2025 semester while also enhancing the experience for those attending the on-campus ceremony.