On Thursday, March 11th, 2017, the University of Miami celebrated its largest class of graduates in the history of the University (221 Ph.D.s and 867 master’s). Those who were honored included the University’s online graduate students, who proudly joined their on-campus peers to walk across the Watsco Center stage.
A record-breaking 102 online students graduated from master’s programs in finance, professional accounting, sport administration, and for the first time business administration. Many students traveled from as far as California to receive their diploma and those who couldn’t attend in person were invited to stream the ceremony live in their home.
Online students kicked off their graduation celebration with a reception where students and their families were invited to meet faculty members and fellow students (some of them meeting in-person for the first time). For Masters of Education in Sport Administration student Ganesha Johnson, graduation was a chance to re-connect with many of the students and professors she had developed relationships with over the past 20-months.
“I am super excited to graduate. When I started this program I hadn’t really thought much about going to graduate school and now that has come I am so excited. I am excited to be back on campus and see my professors and my fellow classmates.”
Ganesha, a former member of the military, is currently an intern for the Cincinnati Red Sox. She completed her degree online while working full-time and taking care of several foster children. She plans to pursue a career as a high school director of athletics after graduation.
“The online sport administration program creates tremendous opportunities. Professors who have never meant you want you to succeed. There is a great support system of staff and sense of community that you become a part of.”
During the reception, Program Director Chris Koelsch reflected on the inclusive community created by the University of Miami’s online programs and officially welcomed The University of Miami’s graduates to the Cane’ family, “We are all here to celebrate you. Even though this may be the first time some of you have been on-campus, you are all part of our University of Miami family.”
The future is bright for the University of Miami’s newest class of online graduates.
