We cannot move forward without remembering where we came from. Although I LOVE USM… and screaming “To The Top,” I continuously pay tribute to “Our Southeastern.”

“And love thee, Alma Mater, through all eternity…”

These words close the Southeastern Louisiana University Alma Mater, and after receiving my bachelor’s degree, I felt proud to sing with my peers on graduation day. As I turned my class ring, symbolic of my readiness to face the world, I also turned the page to a new chapter of my life.

My journey at Southern Miss presented many challenges, gifts and opportunities. I am beyond grateful for everything I’ve gained during my academic career and look forward to my future as a professional.

As I prepare for my commencement ceremony, I reflect on my favorite elements of The University of Southern Mississippi and life as a Golden Eagle. 

“S. OU. THERN. Southern Mississippi. USM!”

The PRIDE that you feel when you enter Golden Eagle Territory is breathtaking. No matter where you go or what you do, Southern Miss Pride is right there with you.

It wasn’t until I joined the USM family that I realized what it means to celebrate and embrace DIVERSITY. During my time at the university, I never felt like a minority, or outsider, but always gained a sense of belonging as a member of a unique, diverse, multicultural family from many states, countries and walks of life.

From the entrance of the main CAMPUS to the home of The Rock, a visit to USM takes you straight “To the Top." Once you’re there, you just may get hooked, but life as a Golden Eagle is such a good look. There are bridges, lakes, statues and more. Look around when you stroll as the Eagles soar. The USM campus is something to see, the scenery eases studies to earn that degree.

I’m a #LionForLife and happy to be a Golden Eagle. I’m blessed as can be. As I sing the words, reminisce and take flight, I’ll cherish USM for the rest of my life.

Congratulations to the class of ‘16. Let’s take off together and achieve our dreams.

We sing to thee our alma mater,
USM thy praises be:
Southern mem'ries we shall cherish,
Loyalty we pledge to thee.

Spacious skies and land of sunshine,
Verdant trees and shelt'ring walls,
Now our hearts lift ever to thee,
As we praise thy hallowed halls.

-          USM Alma Mater, 1941