The University of Louisiana at Lafayette awarded diplomas to 1,325 graduates as part of Friday’s Fall 2013 Commencement ceremonies.
Doctoral degrees were awarded at a general assembly at the Cajundome that was attended by all graduates.
Master's and bachelor's degrees were conferred for each academic college at ceremonies that were held at different campus locations Friday.
University President Dr. Joseph Savoie encouraged graduates to embark on the next phase of their lives with the “same hope, optimism and tenacity” that enabled them to earn their degrees.
“Make a commitment to do what you can to help others,” he added.
François Delattre, the French ambassador to the United States, was awarded an honorary doctorate of Francophone Studies.
Delattre also served as Commencement keynote speaker. He urged graduates to become leaders who display “passion, conviction and joie de vivre.”
“Because of your strong educational background, you are the ones others will look to for advice and guidance, both professionally and in other areas,” he said.
Cory Etheredge was named UL Lafayette’s overall Outstanding Graduate.
Etheredge, who majored in kinesiology/exercise science, received a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Education. She is the daughter of Winona Istre of Lafayette, La. and Jim Etheredge of Youngsville, La.
Every spring and fall semester, deans from the eight academic colleges select an Outstanding Graduate based on leadership, scholarship and service. One is selected for the overall award by an Alumni Association selection committee, which interviews each candidate.
Etheredge was also one of five students who were recognized as summa cum laude graduates.
Other graduates who achieved perfect 4.0 grade point averages are:
• Shelbie Louviere, who majored in speech pathology and audiology, received a bachelor of arts degree from the College of Liberal Arts. She is the daughter of Todd and Leah Louviere of Haughton, La.
• Megan Roberts, who majored in speech pathology and audiology, received a bachelor of arts degree from the College of Liberal Arts. She is the daughter of Belinda and Paul Roberts of Breaux Bridge, La.
• Daniel Gould, who majored in chemistry, received a bachelor of science degree from the Ray P. Authement College of Sciences. He is the son of Judith Meriwether and Phillip Gould, both of Lafayette.
• Joseph Lanclos, who majored in mechanical engineering, received a bachelor of science degree from the College of Engineering.. He is the son of Sherry Lanclos of Opelousas, La.
François Delattre, the French ambassador to the United States, was awarded an honorary doctorate of Francophone Studies.
Delattre also served as Commencement keynote speaker. He urged graduates to become leaders who display “passion, conviction and joie de vivre.”
“Because of your strong educational background, you are the ones others will look to for advice and guidance, both professionally and in other areas,” he said.