Strong academic accomplishments marked recent graduation ceremonies across several institutions, highlighting the achievements of students from diverse backgrounds.
McNeese State University Celebrates 624 Graduates
On May 9, 2025, McNeese State University conferred degrees to 624 graduates during its 164th commencement ceremonies held at the university’s Legacy Center. Among the distinguished graduates was Kaile Elizabeth Leilani Kukaua from Valencia, who earned a bachelor of science degree in biological science.
The spring class of 2025 comprised students from 38 parishes, 17 states, and 14 countries. In total, the university awarded 650 degrees, which included 35 associate degrees, 536 bachelor’s degrees, 78 master’s degrees, and one doctoral degree. This diverse cohort underscores the university’s commitment to fostering a global academic community.
Elms College Honors Graduates and Dean’s List Achievers
Also celebrating academic success, Kyle Gordon from Castaic received a bachelor of arts degree from Elms College in Chicopee, Massachusetts, following the completion of the spring 2025 semester. Gordon was one of 279 students who graduated in December 2025 and earned recognition on the College of Our Lady of the Elms spring 2025 dean’s list. The dean’s list included over 450 students, reflecting the college’s rigorous academic standards. Founded in 1928 by the Sisters of St. Joseph, Elms College emphasizes a liberal arts education within a co-educational Catholic framework.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln Recognizes Local Students
In additional academic honors, over 6,700 students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln were named to the dean’s list for the spring semester of the 2024-25 academic year. Among those recognized were two local students:
– Kendall Rae Lescher, a senior majoring in forensic science from Canyon Country, acknowledged for her achievements in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.
– Grace Catherine Gilroy, a junior majoring in English and dance from Santa Clarita, recognized in both the College of Arts and Sciences and the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts.
To qualify for the dean’s list, students must meet specific academic criteria that vary across the eight undergraduate colleges and the Explore Center. Students can receive dean’s list honors from multiple colleges, highlighting their diverse academic pursuits.
These achievements reflect not only the dedication of the students but also the support provided by their respective institutions, paving the way for future endeavors.