MSU hosts inaugural brunch celebration for international graduates
Contact: Mary Pollitz
STARKVILLE, Miss.—Kicking off the university’s graduation celebrations, Mississippi State honored nearly 100 international students during its inaugural International Student Graduation Brunch today [May 12].
Held by the MSU International Institute, the brunch welcomed 90 students from 35 countries graduating across 40 disciplines. Dan Reynolds, institute executive director, said the event celebrates these students who traveled across the world to continue their education at MSU—two-thirds of whom are earning master’s degrees or higher.
“In addition to their research and academic contributions, they contribute to the cultural development of our university and community,” he said. “I always enjoy learning about the different customs, cultures, and of course, cuisines of the many countries that our students come from.”
In addition to recognizing each of the international scholars, graduates received one lapel pin with a U.S. flag and a flag from the student’s home country, representing their journey to Starkville and the university. Malia Schimminger, the institute’s assistant director who helped create the event, wanted to host a celebration for these graduates whose family members often cannot be at graduation.
“Graduating from college is a tremendous achievement, and it can be difficult to celebrate without loved ones in the audience,” she said. “International students bring the world to Starkville. They bring a cultural richness that helps our entire campus community prepare for success in a globalized workforce. It’s an honor to host international students at Mississippi State, and we look forward to seeing the impact they have on the world.”
Approximately 3,500 MSU spring graduates will conclude a major chapter in their educational journeys during the May 13- 16 commencement ceremonies. MSU President Mark E. Keenum will be the featured commencement speaker for all ceremonies and will award bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degrees. All ceremonies can be watched remotely via the MSU TV Center’s livestream at www.mstv.msstate.edu, on the MSTV app and on the university’s main Facebook page.
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