More than 2,200 College of Education graduates, family, and friends gathered on Sunday, May 12, at the Activities and Recreation Center on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus to celebrate the Class of 2024.

The ceremony kicked off with a powerful message from Dr. Warren-Grice, Ph.D. '14 Educational Policy, Organization and Leadership, the founder and CEO of Liberated Genius, LLC, an educational consulting company supporting educational leaders with liberatory pedagogy and collaborative advocacy opportunities for Black youth and educators. Here is an excerpt from her address:

"This day is a gift to your past, present, and future self, and serves as one of the many symbolic markers that you are resilient, bold, daring, and GENIUS," said Warren-Grice. 

"One day, you will be sitting in a meeting explaining your vision for your class, school, district, organization, or community and in the middle of the question and answer session you will realize again that Illinois prepared you well. You will vividly remember a discussion, assignment, project, or activity where you did something similar, and you will smile, recognizing that the lessons learned from Illinois were perfect for this moment. I know because it happens to me over and over again. It didn’t always make sense then, but it makes absolute sense now.

"And yes, I did say genius. Your genius is needed. I have this radical idea that everyone has genius, and not in the limited notion of test scores and IQ, but in the sense that we all have something of value to offer ourselves, our community, and the world. And as we re-member, or put back together our gifts, powers, and our genius, it is both our responsibility and a privilege to share it with the world. Even when others might not get it. While everyone won't see it or get it, that’s OK. Because it is for you to see and bring forth. Just like everyone can't bring the potato salad to the BBQ, everyone can't bring your gift. So keep cooking that thang, and when it's ready, and you will know—because that little voice on the inside will smile with gladness and give you the go ahead. Trust it.

"We need you and your gift. And how do we know? Because you are here, and it’s in you. So let this day be the beginning of your thank you to those who came before you, supported you along the way, and a promissory note to your future self and the many who are waiting for you."

The College's three 2024 Outstanding Student Medal recipients were also honored and delivered remarks to their respective degree-level graduates. Additionally, 24 Bronze Tablet awardees and 26 James Scholar students from the College's 2024 graduating class were recognized— record numbers.

Visit the College's social media channels to view photos of 2024 Convocation. Congratulations to all of our graduates!