PHOTOS: UT Tyler University Academy 2024 graduation ceremony

Published 5:40 am Sunday, June 2, 2024

The University of Texas at Tyler University Academy (UA) recognized its largest graduating class of 58 students during the graduation ceremony at the UT Tyler Herrington Patriot Center on Friday evening.

The UT Tyler University Academy is a K-12 public university laboratory charter school with campuses in Tyler, Longview and Palestine. UT Tyler UA offers a STEM curriculum in a hands-on learning environment. The district currently serves more than 1,000 students.

Dr. Jo Ann Simmons, UA superintendent, welcomed the graduates and their supporters.

After the invocation was given by Dr. Jaclyn Pedersen, University Academy’s Executive Director of Curriculum, the National Anthem was led by UA Palestine student Addison Bowman.

Rachel Hawkins, director of the Longview campus, presented Annie Tran as their valedictorian.

“One of my favorite things at UA is the school’s class sizes,” Tran said. “Because of how much smaller our class is than other graduating classes, our connection has grown beyond strong. I can genuinely say that the past four years of high school have been a joy to spend with all 23 of y’all. I believe that the memories we have created together will last us a lifetime.”

Shelly Parsons, interim director of the Palestine campus, presented Ava Chaladpru as their valedictorian.

“We have come far but this is not the end,” Chaladpru said. “The future is waiting for us, no matter how hard it may be, I know that we will always be willing to offer hands just like how we were until now. The four years we had together were tough but we are here now because of all our efforts. Don’t forget all you have done; we all have the potential to have one of the brightest futures. Whatever we have done in the past, good or bad, don’t ever regret it. As Clive Staples Lewis said ‘you can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.’”

Dr. Kelly Dyer, director of the Tyler campus, presented Rebekah Daniel as their valedictorian.

“It’s important to remember that our paths will not always be straightforward,” Daniel said. “There will be twists and turns, unexpected challenges, and moments of doubt. But it is in these moments that our true character is revealed. Let us embrace change, stay resilient, and keep moving forward with the same determination that brought us to this day.”

In his final commencement address before retirement, UT Tyler Past President Kirk A. Calhoun, MD, FACP, spoke to the graduating classes of three campuses, congratulating them on the accomplishments.

After the diplomas were distributed, Dr. Max Dass, dean of College Education and Psychology at UT Tyler, provided the closing remarks.