DSU honors graduates at commencement ceremony

Cleveland, MS (12/15/2025) — Contact: Nathan Duff FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Phone: (662) 846-4678

Email: nduff@deltastate.edu

DSU honors graduates at commencement ceremony

CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University proudly celebrated the achievements of its Spring 2025 graduates during commencement exercises held Friday, December 12, at 10 a.m. at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The ceremonies honored 355 candidates for degrees, including 191 bachelor's degrees, 121 master's degrees, 24 educational specialist degrees, and 12 doctoral degrees. Degrees earned at the end of Summer 2025 were included in Friday's ceremony.

Delta State President Dr. Daniel J. Ennis welcomed the assembled graduates, families, faculty, and distinguished guests, saying, "I know our graduates will carry the memories of this day with them as they go out to begin the next chapter in their story."

DSU student Mary Parsons led the national anthem, accompanied on piano by Ronnie Jackson.

2025 S. E. Kossman Outstanding Teacher of the Year Dr. Lisa Cooley, Assistant Professor of Marketing delivered the commencement address. She implored the graduates to be resilient, joyful, forgiving and respectful as they move on with their lives.

"Let kindness be your legacy," she said. "Even if the group project from sophomore year still haunts you. Shake off what doesn't serve you and step into the spotlight of what does."

After graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas, Dr. Ennis conferred the degrees, subject to final certification by the Registrar's Office. He then welcomed Alumni Association Board President Hayes Collins to the podium.

"You have had family help get you to this achievement today," said Collins. "And you have now gained a new family through the Delta State Alumni Association to go with you on this next journey you are setting out on."

Delta State University extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Class of Fall 2025 and looks forward to their continued success as proud alumni of the Green and White.

For more information about degree programs at Delta State University, visit deltastate.edu. To view a recording of the live stream of the commencement ceremonies, visit vimeo.com/deltastateuniversity.

Cutline: Commencement speaker Dr. Lisa Cooley delivered an inspiring message, urging the graduates to make the most of their time and opportunities.

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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,800 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.

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