The final day of the 65th commencement ceremonies at CSU Stanislaus marked a proud moment for students from the College of Business Administration, who crossed the stage Friday to celebrate a remarkable milestone in their academic journeys.

Among the graduates was Antonio Morales, who earned his Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in finance.

“I feel nervous but excited. All my family is here. It’s a big accomplishment,” Morales said. “I have my sister by my side, so I feel more at ease.”

When asked about his post-graduation plans, Morales didn’t hesitate.

“Go home and celebrate.”

He also offered encouragement for students pursuing a similar path.

“I definitely think it’s the right way to go, especially since business is the backbone structure of any little thing. You always need someone in business that can have your back.”

President Britt Rios-Ellis addressed the graduates, highlighting the significance of their roles in a changing global economy.

“As California continues to rise as the fourth largest economy in the world… you are the builder of the new American one, where business drives opportunities, equity, and renewable transformation,” she said.

Inspiring Words From Student Speaker

Tiare Danby, the student speaker for the ceremony and a Master of Business Administration graduate, delivered an inspirational speech about taking risks and embracing change.

“Now we must navigate a world far less structured, a world filled with uncertainty,” Danby said.  “The temptation to play it safe, to stay within our comfort zone, will be strong, but I urge you to resist this temptation.”

She closed her speech with a challenge to her peers.

“We’re not just graduating from college, we are graduating into a world that needs us. It needs our creativity, passion and willingness to take risks. So let’s not waste any more time. Start saying yes to the adventures, the challenges and the possibilities. Let’s start our ‘yes experiment’ today.”

Family Pride and Graduate Reflections

Following the ceremony, graduates and their families shared their pride and excitement.

Mark Rutledge, who earned his Master of Business Administration, reflected on his journey.

“I feel phenomenal. I feel accomplished. The sacrifice and everything that went into it, I was grateful. I am proud,” Rutledge said.

His father, Rob Woodson, expressed his admiration.

“I am a very proud father, very proud. He worked hard, and it has paid off for him. I love him. Very proud.”

Bachelor of Business Administration graduate Vanessa Reynaga also shared her joy.

“I feel amazing. It’s a great accomplishment, and I’m happy my family’s here. I’m very excited for the next chapter of my life,” she said. “I have my mom, my sister and my husband here today.”

Her sister, Samantha Alamo, added her own words of support.

“I’m very proud of her. It’s such an honor, everybody is happy for her.”

As the 65th commencement ceremonies came to a close, the atmosphere was filled with pride, gratitude and excitement for the future. It was not merely an end, but a launching point, propelling a new generation of business leaders into a future full of promise and purpose.