More than 1,000 students celebrated degree completion this past weekend at the 150th University of Tulsa Commencement. Graduation ceremonies were held for the College of Engineering & Computer Science, Kendall College of Arts & Sciences, Oxley College of Health & Natural Sciences, Collins College of Business, College of Law, Honors College and Graduate School.
UTulsa’s class of 2024-25 includes 654 bachelor’s degrees, 236 master’s degrees, 61 doctoral degrees, 92 law degrees and 26 doctor of nurse practitioner degrees. The majority of the new alumni have accepted excellent job offers or are headed to prestigious graduate programs. The university boasts a 96% placement rate compared with the 89% national average and an average salary of $73,692 for new alumni.
Honors were announced for:
- the 2025 Marcy Lawless Service Award recipient, Jeremy Schick of Edmond, who on Saturday received a bachelor’s degree in business and law and was awarded a $1,200 stipend;
- the 2025 Outstanding Teachers, Mohamed Fakhr (biological science), Michael Futch (philosophy) and Anila Madhan (finance); and
- the 2025 Outstanding Researchers, Akhtar Ali (biological science), Lars Engle (English) and Tyler Moore (cyber studies).
In his address to graduates, UTulsa President Brad Carson acknowledged that students are exposed to an array of cultures and viewpoints that enrich and enlighten.
“You have studied the insight of the ages. You have learned how to ask probing questions, how to gather reliable information and how to evaluate arguments. You also have found a deeper sense of community through service projects, campus organizations and Greek life,” he said. “In short: During your time at The University of Tulsa, you have developed not only knowledge, but also lifelong perspective on what it means to be a responsible individual in a dynamic setting.”
TU Alumni Association President Thomas Porter (B.S.B.A. ’14), who came to Tulsa from his home in Denver for the ceremonies, implored graduates to stay engaged and connected.
“Our loyal, always true alumni have stood strong through adversity, and now, as you enter the world, we pass the torch to you,” he said. “Know that your time, your expertise, and your resources will continue to strengthen this university for generations to come. My charge for each and every one of you, as you leave here today, is not just to succeed in your endeavors but to lead and serve with purpose.”
Student Government Association President Michael Combs of Nashville, Illinois, encouraged graduates to carry The University of Tulsa’s spirit of excellence with them.
“Over the past four years, you have demonstrated extraordinary commitment in the classroom, in leadership, in service and in the countless ways you have shaped the life of this university,” he said. “You have conducted groundbreaking research, served your peers with integrity, performed on our stages and fields, and represented TU with distinction in competitions, conferences, and communities far beyond our campus. Your contributions have left a lasting mark on this institution, and we are better because of you.”