Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities

ENMU graduates nearly 230

Freedom New Mexico: Clarence Plank Josh Messer receives his hood for his master’s degree in business Saturday during ENMU commencement. Messer said he enjoyed his time and the friendships he made at ENMU.

Saturday was a day of reflection for almost 230 Eastern New Mexico University graduates who walked across the stage and into a new life.

Forty master’s and 188 bachelor’s degrees were granted.

Bradley Love, hospitality and business graduate, said it was a long road for him.

“It was great,” Love said. “I’ve been in school off and on since 1996...it has been a long time coming.”

Love said it took him sometime before he was able find a major he could enjoy.

Graduates, faculty and staff celebrated the 75th anniversary of the school by wearing special medallions for the event.

ENMU President Emeritus Everett Frost’s commencement address included a history of the normal school, the university, his experience as faculty and university president.

“After being at Eastern for a few years I could see that ENMU was a different kind of institution,” Frost said. “It is the type you call an American dream university.”

Professor of History Don Elder said graduation is a bittersweet experience for faculty.

“I’m happy to see the students achieve the goals they have been working toward for so long,” Elder said. “You develop a great relationship with the students,” adding while he was happy for student, he was said their paths wouldn’t cross as often.

Parents, students, faculty and staff gathered at the reception after graduation for pictures and to reflect on memories.

Josh Messer, said his experience at ENMU was great.

“I wouldn’t trade anything for Portales,” Messer said. “It is a great little town, I love the school and the friends I’ve made.

 
 
Rendered 02/26/2024 07:58