Boise State holds winter commencement

Boise State University recently held its winter commencement, during which about 1,000 students received their degrees.

According to a news release, 322 students graduated with honors, and the graduating class included students from 24 countries and 47 states.

“Here at Boise State, you shared a common bond as Boise State students, enriching and nurturing our campus culture with your own unique experiences and perspectives,” Boise State President Bob Kustra said at the ceremony. “It’s our fondest hope that because of this experience, you are better prepared to face the career challenges and opportunities that await you in a rapidly changing global economy.”

Boise State expects to confer approximately 4,000 degrees this year, and 1,937 students were eligible to receive 2,144 degrees and certificates at the Winter Commencement ceremony. The 322 honors graduates included 209 cum laude graduates, 97 magna cum laude graduates and 16 summa cum laude graduates.

“To care deeply is to be passionate, and passion is a gift,” Bethany Poythress, the commencement's student speaker, said. “It makes life meaningful. Really commit to the cases and people you care about.”

This year’s winter commencement also honored Rod Lewis, one of the longest-serving members of the Idaho State Board of Education, who was recognized for his service to the university, where he is on the Board of Trustees.