University of Brownsville Final Commencement Video

“The members of this stage party, the faculty seated before you, and hundreds of staff have been engaged with our UT System colleagues to expand the opportunities for higher education in our region,” Fannin said. “These efforts build upon the legacies of UT Brownsville and its sister institution to create a new university with expanded programs and expanded opportunities.” The Commencement speaker was Judge Ernest Aliseda of McAllen, Texas, a member of the Board of Regents of The University of Texas System. The final graduate of the morning was the UT Brownsville mascot, Ozzie the Ocelot. Chosen by the students when UTB was re-launched as a stand-alone university in 2012, Ozzie has been a beloved part of campus events and celebrations over the last three years. “Today Ozzie earns an honorary degree in Environmental Sciences,” said Irv Downing, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “Like many of our graduates today, he’s planning to intern this summer. He has applications in at the Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Refuge and the Sabal Palm Grove Sanctuary. He has also joined the Alumni Association and looks forward to supporting the students at UTRGV. Congratulations Ozzie and congratulations to the class of 2015.” Following a UTB tradition, Ozzie was asked to ring the large bell. He was joined on stage by the three leadership ring recipients – Marcos Alfonso Perez, Samantha Gomez and Stephanie Mendez. As the bell rang, daytime fireworks were shot into the air above the roof of the Student Union, as students were led to the reception area. Family and friends followed the procession to the Biomedical Building courtyard, where refreshments awaited. ​​ A special thanks goes to Martie Di Gregroio - Director of Special Events and Presidential Services, without whom none of this would be possible. - http://www.utb.edu/newsinfo/Pages/Fam...