End of a journey

Staff writer

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link Derek Major: Staff photo

Brittany Lee Garner receives her bachelor’s degree in the College of Education on Saturday at ENMU’s commencement ceremony.

Jane Hammond had finally reached the end of her collegiate career after receiving her master’s degree in sports administration Saturday. She was ready to celebrate with her husband, Eastern New Mexico University Professor Bradford Hammond.

“We have a bottle of wine at home, so we’ll have a couple glasses,” Bradford Hammond said. “Nothing long range, just enjoy the moment.”

Jane, along with 229 other students, walked across the stage at Greyhound Arena as part of the 127th commencement ceremony on Saturday. Dustin Seifert, director of the ENMU band gave the commencement speech.

For some, the ceremony marked the end of a long journey toward an advanced degree. For others it meant overcoming unexpected obstacles.

Troy Harris, a former Eastern student, took his son to see his girlfriend, Amber Grant, graduate, and was quick to talk about how proud he was of her.

“With having a kid, it takes a lot of mental toughness to go out and get a degree,” Harris said. “We had a bit of a set back with having a kid, but she pushed through it and graduated, so it’s an even bigger deal to have a kid and graduate.”

Grant, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in family consumer science, does not plan on staying in New Mexico for long.

“We’re moving to Pennsylvania, so I’m not exactly sure of what I’m doing just yet.”

Mark Beaubien, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in information systems, does plan on staying in Portales.

“My experience here was awesome,” said Beaubien, who is from Moriarty. “I think everyone should experience college, and I think that everyone should join an organization. I learned a lot throughout college and made my best friends here.”

For these graduates, the next stage of life begins as they relocate, start careers and begin families. But they’re also taking the time to step back and enjoy the moment, something Seifert talked about in his speech.

Tracy Counts received multiple degrees on Saturday, and although she’s happy to take the time to step back and reflect, she won’t take much time.

“Whew,” Counts said as she exhaled loudly. “It feels great, I’m ready to go out there and see what I can do.”