ÃÛÌÒAPP

Dozens of soon-to-be graduates gathered Thursday evening at ÃÛÌÒAPP’s Sheila Umphrey Recreational Sports Center to mark the end of their academic journeys during a special senior-only event hosted by the university. 

Held at The Patio from 4 to 6 p.m., the celebration drew more than 100 seniors who enjoyed food, drinks, and a range of graduation-themed activities, including cap decorating and last-minute swag giveaways.

Each graduate received a commemorative Class of 2025 pint glass and graduation cords as part of the festivities.

The event, which returned this year after a three-year hiatus, was revived by Kyle Fayan, associate director of student involvement.

“It means a lot to have this back,” Fayan said. “Graduation can feel like a whirlwind, and this event is all about bringing people together, one last time, to reflect, connect, and just have fun. These seniors deserve to be sent off and celebrated.”

For many students, the evening was about more than free swag and photo ops, it was a reminder of how far they’ve come. Criminal justice senior Lindsey Hodges said the sense of community at Lamar played a big role in her experience.

“I started as an online student, but I always came to campus for events like this,” Hodges said. “Being here and feeling that connection, it reminded me I was part of something bigger and that Lamar really does feel like a family.”

When asked what she would say to her freshman self, Hodges smiled and said simply: “You did it.”

Reflecting on his academic journey, senior construction management student Embry Robles encouraged prospective students to consider Lamar’s welcoming environment and the connections it fosters.

“If I were to tell anyone curious about Lamar one thing, I’d say this is the land of opportunity,” Robles said. “It’s a place where you can really grow, personally, professionally, and academically. But more than that, it’s a community. People here genuinely care. You’re never just a number.”

Students mingled, posed for photos in ÃÛÌÒAPP gear, and shared memories with friends.

“At the end of the day, it’s nice to just come together in a relaxed environment and hang out,” Fayan said. “If the event is going chill and everyone’s happy, then we had a success.”

The senior celebration served as a prelude to commencement, which takes place Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17.