Class of 2024 Praised for Perseverance

Robert Sheppard III celebrates graduation with Shaw University President and CEO Paulette R. Dillard during commencement exercises at the Raleigh Convention Center May 11, 2024.

RALEIGH, N.C. — Shaw University held commencement exercises Saturday in the Raleigh Convention Center, where 129 bachelor’s degrees and 45 graduate degrees were conferred.

United Negro College Fund (UNCF) President and CEO Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., used his commencement address to remind graduates of their perseverance, particularly those whose college journeys began at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“College life was clearly different these past four years,” Lomax said. “The education you have received is not merely a collection of facts and figures but a foundation of critical thinking, innovation, entrepreneurship, and you have learned that you are the creators of your life. You will create your best life.”

Lomax exhorted the class of 2024 to continue in the tradition of students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) being at the forefront of movements for social change. From the founding of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee at Shaw University in 1960 to protests on college campuses in recent days, HBCU students have always been engaged in the issues, Lomax said.

“You belong in every room where every decision is made,” he said.

United Negro College Fund President and CEO Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., praised the perseverance of the class of 2024 during Shaw University’s commencement commencement exercises at the Raleigh Convention Center May 11, 2024.

During the ceremony, Shaw University President and CEO Paulette R. Dillard, Ph.D., conferred upon Lomax an honorary degree of doctor of humane letters. Under his leadership, UNCF has raised more than $4 billion and helped more than 150,000 students earn college degrees and launch careers. Annually, UNCF’s work enables 50,000 students to go to college with UNCF scholarships and attend its 37 member HBCUs.

Shortly after turning her tassel, Nakya Carter, the president of this year’s Shaw University senior class, addressed her fellow graduates.

“We came, we finished, we conquered,” Carter said. “Shaw University will be a part of our lives forever.”

That’s 174 new Shaw University alums.

“You guys persevered. You guys survived,” Shaw University National Alumni Association President Andre Sheppard told the graduates. “Clap for yourself and embrace this moment.”

“And now, the farewell from your president. It’s simple,” said Dillard, setting up a summary from the late poet Maya Angelou. “If you’re going to live, leave a legacy. If you’re going to live, leave a legacy that cannot be erased.”

The Shaw University class of 2024 comprised 174 graduates. Commencement exercises were in the Raleigh Convention Center May 11, 2024.