Jonesboro, Arkansas – On Saturday, Arkansas State University celebrated its summer commencement exercises.
According to a university press release, approximately 900 graduates were honored at First National Bank Arena by family, friends, and teachers.
The degrees awarded to the graduates ranged from program certificates through PhD degrees and associate degrees.
Darnell Walker, who obtained his master’s degree in sports administration, was one of the graduates.
He claimed it required numerous sacrifices from him and his family to work as a police officer while pursuing his master’s.
“12-hour shifts, working midnights, doing my homework on midnights, you know. Coming back, having to be the police and going to football practice, just… it’s a grind,” he said.
On Saturday, his family joined him in the bleachers. Walker expressed his want for his father to be present but said that he was presently hospitalized and unable to do so.
“I know he’s proud of me, my mom is here, my wife, daughter, and sister are here, and I know they’re excited,” he said.
Eight college graduates made their way across the stage.
Todd Shields, the chancellor, also addressed the students and praised their achievements.