More than 2,100 students in the class of 2020 and 2,600 in the class of 2021 earned degrees and credentials. With the graduation of the Class of 2021, the California State University achieved a milestone—four million living alumni. See photos of the ceremonies online.
This year’s commencement included a ceremony for Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters recipient Walter James Lara, Sr. Lara is a respected spiritual leader and wisdom keeper of the Yurok Tribal people and recognized as a Native cultural and political luminary among Tribal Nations throughout the State of California. Lara has a long and enduring relationship with Humboldt State University. He made contributions to scholarship in which he shared his knowledge on Yurok tradition through publications and workshops. Read about past Honorary Degree recipients here.
In addition, nine “Golden Grads” participated in Commencement for the first time. Golden Grads are alumni who graduated at least 50 years ago and return to participate in golden robes. They shared advice with students during the ceremony. Golden Grads will be invited to participate in future commencements.
A video recording of the ceremony will be available online for free at commencement.humboldt.edu in the next several weeks.
This year’s graduates join HSU’s more than 84,000 alumni. Alumni can sign up for a free membership with Forever Humboldt, the official association of Humboldt State University.