Students recognized at FSU with honors

The Center for Leadership & Social Change, Student Government Association and Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement recently honored 67 seniors from various courses of study and walks of life. 

The graduating seniors were part of the Rite to A-rak-ke-ce-tv cultural graduation ceremony, held in the Oglesby Union Ballrooms at 6 p.m. Dec. 15. 

The name of the ceremony comes from a Seminole Creek phrase. "A-rak-ke-ce-tv" translates "to honor," as this ceremony was recognizing what the students have completed, while paying respect to their friends and families -- as well as what being a Seminole means.

The keynote speaker was Toni Sanchez, who is a member of the Seminole tribe. She earned her creative writing degree from Florida State University. 

The student reflection will be presented by Kevon Randall, a student who will be graduating with a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary social science. During his time at the FSU campus, Randall has been integral to a number of leadership positions. Following his graduation, Randall hopes to go on to receive his Master of Business Administration from Florida A&M University. 

Over the years, Florida State University has had a strong connection with the Seminole Tribe of Florida, and this ceremony will solidify the respect that the Florida institute has for cultural and historical traditions.