2024 Webster University Commencement Snapshot
May 21, 2024
Graduates from the College of Science and Health wait their turn to cross the stage
in the Grant Gymnasium.
On May 11, Webster University hosted its 105th commencement ceremony at the Webster Groves campus. The main ceremony began with an inspirational video highlighting the journeys of several graduates – focusing on where they had come
from, what they learned during their time at Webster and where they are ready to make
an impact next. Following the video, President Julian Z. Schuster, PhD, shared welcome
remarks and congratulated the graduating class.
Next, Vice President for Academic Affairs Nancy Hellerud, JD, took to the podium to
introduce alumna Erika Josephson-Heise, MA ’10. Sumit Verma, chair of the Webster University Board of Trustees, presented
Josephson-Heise as a candidate for the honorary Doctorate of Letters from Webster
University for her work in the field.
Josephson-Heise, who serves as executive producer for "NBC News Daily," delivered
this year’s commencement address. She encouraged graduates to "take a chance" when
reaching a crossroads – urging them to seize opportunities and to pursue their life's
purpose as it evolves.
Webster University President Julian Z. Schuster, President of the Board of Trustees
Sumit Verma, Vice President for Academic Affairs Nancy Hellerud and Chancellor Elizabeth
(Beth) J. Stroble present Erika Josephson-Heise with an honorary degree.
After the commencement address and conferral of degrees, Chancellor Elizabeth (Beth)
J. Stroble, PhD, took to the podium to extend her congratulations, share advice with
the graduates, and express gratitude for the years spent together at Webster. Webster
Alumni Association President Daniel Lisella, BS ‘04, wrapped up the ceremony by encouraging
graduates to stay connected and to display their diplomas with pride.
Individual ceremonies for each of the various schools and colleges took place throughout
the day on campus, divided between the Loretto Hilton Center and Grant Gymnasium.
Distinctive points about this year's ceremony include:
- 4,724 total graduates during the 2023-2024 academic year (3,601 graduate students and 1,123 undergraduate students)
- 176 undergraduate students received University Academic Honors – 75 graduating summa cum laude, 50 graduating magna cum laude, and 51 graduating cum laude
- 309 graduate students received Graduate Academic Honors
- 6 students from the Gleich Honors College graduated
- 102 countries were represented
- 43 states were represented - plus the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico
- 22 graduates are currently stationed overseas with the U.S. Military
- The youngest graduate was 19 years old and received a BS in Computer Science with emphasis in Cybersecurity (home campus)
- The oldest graduate was 69 years old and received a MA in Human Resources Management (online) 47 faculty/staff members were graduates
- 11 children/spouses of a faculty/staff member were graduates
Graduates from the Walker School of Business & Technology line up under the flags
in the University Center to process into their ceremony.
Across the network of Webster campuses around the world, local ceremonies will continue throughout the summer and into the fall depending on local schedules.
Congratulations to the Webster University Class of 2024!
A group of graduates from the Leigh Gerdine College of Fine Arts cheer outside after
their ceremony.