'So excited to be here:' University of Lynchburg graduates celebrate Commencement

LYNCHBURG, Va. (WSET) — The list of alumni at the University of Lynchburg just got a little bit longer after commencement for the class of 2023 Thursday morning.

A lot of excitement from the graduates filled the stadium as they finally reached the top of the mountain in their college journey.

The speakers also had some uplifting advice as these graduates head out into the world, recognizing their hard work in overcoming the COVID pandemic.

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Speakers also touched on the importance of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion at the school and the impact it's had on so many.

Graduates were quick to speak about their excitement after the ceremony.

"It's been amazing, Alla Daniel said. "I wouldn't trade it for anything. It feels great to be here today. And it's just an exciting time and I'm so happy to be here right now."

"Everything leads up to today, Reagan Bednar said. "And it's finally happening, and it did happen. So I'm super excited; I'm proud of myself."

The graduates were also challenged to embrace fear as they begin this next chapter.

CONTINUE READING: 'It's been the time of my life:' Graduates reflect on their time at Liberty Mountain

Instead of allowing fear to hurt them, they were told to use it as a motivator to try new things and be bold in what they do with the rest of their lives.

The graduates were also encouraged to get six feet closer to one another and hold onto the bonds they’ve made during their time at U of L.

The Speakers told them those bonds are ones that will last a lifetime.