Before MTSU spring commencement ceremonies were held, dozens of proud minority graduating seniors gathered for the Intercultural Graduation Reception hosted by the Office of Intercultural and Diversity Affairs and presented by the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership.

MTSU senior Barbara Pafetti reflects on her time at MTSU during the 2018 Intercultural Graduation Reception held April 16 in the Tom H. Jackson Building. (MTSU photo by Andy Heidt)

Held inside the Tom H. Jackson Building, the reception was an opportunity to recognize minority students scheduled to graduate during upcoming May commencement ceremonies on May 4 (graduate students) and May 5 (undergraduates).

Graduating senior and current Student Government Association President Courtney Brandon served as master of ceremonies and also shared reflections on her academic journey at MTSU along with students Barbara Pafetti and Chloe Brandon.

Dr. Debra Sells

Dr. Deb Sells, vice president for student affairs and vice provost for enrollment and academic services, applauded the students for their commitment in pursuing their degrees and now, as soon to be alumni, forming the next generation of leaders in their professional areas and within their communities.

“I believe we’re in good hands,” she said. “Congratulations on this wonderful achievement.”

Daniel Green, director of intercultural and diversity affairs, presented the attending students with special medallions to conclude the April 16 ceremony, which was preceded by light refreshments in Cantrell Hall.

MTSU’s overall enrollment is 34 percent minority, with African-American students making up 20 percent of students, while Asian and Hispanic students make up roughly 5 percent each.

For more information about the Office of Intercultural and Diversity Affairs, visit www.mtsu.edu/idac, email ida@mtsu.edu or call 615-898-5812.

— Jimmy Hart (jimmy.hart@mtsu.edu)

Daniel Green, director of MTSU Intercultural and Diversity Affairs, left, presents graduating senior Montavius Euwing with a special True Blue medallion during the 2018 Intercultural Graduation Reception held April 16 in the Tom H. Jackson Building. (MTSU photo by Andy Heidt)

Daniel Green, director of MTSU Intercultural and Diversity Affairs, left, is shown with graduating senior Bria Turner during the 2018 Intercultural Graduation Reception held April 16 in the Tom H. Jackson Building. (MTSU photo by Andy Heidt)