Bennett College celebrates Class of 2024

Bennett College’s Class of 2024 Commencement Ceremony marked a momentous occasion for students who, four years ago, began their Bennett journey virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the Campus Quadrangle on Saturday morning, Belles, their loved ones, faculty and honored guests gathered to rejoice in celebration. Despite the looming threat of thunderstorms and rain, the sun came out.

Graduates were surrounded by mounted portraits of themselves around the Quadrangle. Each Belle was represented, a testament to her hard work and commitment.
In an address to students, faculty, alumnae and loved ones, President Suzanne Walsh reflected on the students’ first virtual year as freshwoman.

“You are a class we have heard a lot about,” Walsh said. With the challenges the pandemic put in place, Walsh expressed that she wasn’t sure what to expect for the Class of 2024 when their virtual classes began. “Could you still be a Bennett Belle if you have never stepped foot on this campus? You couldn’t come for a tour. Your first year was virtual. Could you still be Bennett Belles? Could you still create a sisterhood in a Zoom environment? The answer is yes. … You were able to create something special.”

On Friday, prior to the commencement ceremony, graduates attended the college’s Baccalaureate Convocation at Annie Merner Pfeiffer Chapel on campus for an evening of spirited choir songs, provided by The Belles of Harmony, and speeches, including an impassioned convocation address from Ryanne Peterson, Bennett’s Director of Counseling Services.

Hand-picked by the graduating class to be the college’s Baccalaureate Convocation speaker, Peterson, who is known for her dedication to eliminating mental health stigma in Black and Brown communities, highlighted the mental and emotional fortitude of the graduating Belles.

“The transition to college is challenging under normal circumstances, but you faced additional hurdles,” said Peterson. “The sudden shift to virtual learning, social distancing and the absence of traditional college experiences made this transition even more daunting. But despite these setbacks, you persevered.”

During the commencement ceremony, which included readings, speeches, songs by the Alumnae Reunion Choir and a tribute by the poet laureate of the college, Jasmine Faison ’10; the class valedictorian, Samiya Green; and the class salutatorian, Trinity Cromwell, were recognized. Green addressed her fellow graduates, offering inspiration to the Class of 2024 as they enter the next chapter of their respective journeys, whether it be moving to a new city or country, beginning a career or attending graduate school.

“Our time here has been more than just grades and achievements,” said Green. “It’s about the friendships we’ve formed, the memories we’ve created and the experiences that have shaped us into the women that we are today.”

Reference to those experiences were echoed by Zakyha Jones-Walker, Student Government Association President and Class of 2024 graduate.

“Throughout our experiences as college students and Bennett Belles, we have endured hardships, whether it was unpredictable or uncontrollable, like COVID-19 and completing the prime first years of college at home, or circumstantial or personal,” said Jones-Walker. “Through the faith we had in one another and ourselves, we prevailed, always encouraging a sister to keep on because we knew this day – this day that we are experiencing right now that seemed so out of reach – would come.”

Senator Gladys A. Robinson, Ph.D. ’71, chair of the Bennett College Board of Trustees, addressed the commencement attendees, sharing a brief history of the college and highlighting the importance of Bennett. At the conclusion of her speech, she addressed the graduates directly:

“Class of 2024, because you were surrounded by a wonderful, creative president and supportive faculty and staff, you leave now reflecting on your great student experience and excited about tomorrow’s challenge,” said Robinson. “Regardless of the challenges, my Bennett sisters, you are ready for the future.”

Also during the ceremony, President Walsh announced the recipient of the Sister Change Act $5,000 scholarship. The scholarship, awarded by Rev. Dr. William J. Barber, benefits a student going on to graduate school in a field focused on social justice. The recipient, Na’kiya Thompson, was called to the stage to be recognized.

Bennett welcomed award-winning and Tony Award-nominated book writer Dominique Morisseau as the 2024 Commencement Ceremony. Morisseau is known for her writing and acclaimed plays, including The Detroit Project, a celebrated three-play cycle which explores the socio-political and economic struggles in Detroit. In Morisseau’s inspirational address, she shared words of encouragement with the graduates.

“What you came through suggests you have the capacity to survive and thrive,” said Morisseau, referencing the students’ unique experience beginning college during both a pandemic and period of social unrest. “You are equipped for the new world like nobody else. You have seen the world stand still and you kept moving until you arrived at your graduation day.”

The ceremony concluded with Vice President of Academic Affairs & Student Experience Laura Colson conferring degrees. Each graduate was presented her degree by President Walsh and congratulated by Chair Senator Robinson. The formal hooding ceremony, a unique ceremonial tradition of the college, was followed by a burst of celebration among the graduates and their loved ones. Graduates were welcomed as alumnae by Yolande Johnson ’83, Donor Relations and Stewardship Director & Alumnae Engagement Liaison. The Commencement Ceremony closed with remarks and prayer by Rev. Greg Drumwright, Pastor and Establishmentarian of The Citadel Church & Campus Ministries.

“We thank God for the many people who have sought and brought this class to and through Bennett,” said Drumwright.