SPC Hosts 151st Commencement Ceremony

St. Philip’s College celebrated its 151st Commencement Ceremony on Dec. 13 at the Freeman Coliseum. The event highlighted the college's remarkable transformation from its humble beginnings as a sewing school in 1898 to a thriving, multi-campus higher education institution now offering a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Cybersecurity.

The ceremony began at 7 p.m. with the Sam Houston High School JROTC posting the colors and a stirring rendition of the national anthem by David Uminski. Vice President Wesley Wells provided the opening remarks.

St. Philip’s College President Dr. Adena Williams Loston reflected on the institution’s rich history and progress since its founding. “This 151st commencement ceremony represents how far we have come since our founding as a sewing school for the daughters and granddaughters of emancipated slaves,” she said. “Today, we offer over 100 degrees and certificates to nearly 18,000 students.”

The ceremony continued with remarks from Vice Chancellor for Academic Success Dr. George Railey and Board of Trustee Member and Chairman Dr. Kingsbery, who expressed gratitude for the students’ hard work and dedication. The student speaker, Daveon Johnson, shared his journey of inspiring growth and leadership at the college, as president of Collegiate 100 and White House HBCU Scholar.

With 887 students applying to graduate, a total of 1,391 degrees and certificates were awarded this semester, including the Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Associate of Applied Science degrees, and various specialized Certificates of Completion, and Occupational Skills Awards.

Following the conferral of degrees, the Alma Mater was performed by Professor David Uminski, and graduate candidate, Shadara Quinn, delivered the benediction, bringing the evening to a close.

As the 151st Commencement Ceremony concluded, St. Philip’s College reaffirmed its mission to inspire and empower students, continuing its long tradition of academic excellence on the east side of San Antonio.