As UNCW Commencement Ceremonies historically take place each May and December, the longstanding Seahawk tradition, the Commencement Toast, continues to salute students the evening before they officially become newly minted alumni. On Friday, Dec. 13, the fall 2024 toast honored more than 100 December graduates and nearly 350 supporters.
The bi-annual event, hosted by the UNCW Alumni Association (UNCWAA), provides an exclusive opportunity for students, families and alumni to come together to celebrate our Seahawks, commemorate the significant milestone of graduation and welcome graduates to the UNCWAA alumni network of more than 106,000 Seahawks worldwide.
“One line of advice that I have consistently given to graduates is how important it is to stay connected, to support one another and take full advantage of the countless opportunities that come as a UNCW alum,” said Lindsay LeRoy, Executive Director of the UNCWAA.
LeRoy encouraged graduates to reflect on their student experience at UNCW; appreciate the many benefits received from the generosity of alumni through scholarships, mentorships or volunteered time; and start thinking about how they can “pay it forward” in similar ways, get involved with the UNCWAA and/or make a class gift to join the UNCW Society.
“Cheers to your achievements, to the lifelong impact you’ll have on UNCW and the world, and to the incredible future that lies ahead,” said LeRoy. “Whether it’s tonight, tomorrow or years from now — don’t hesitate to reach out to the UNCWAA – we are here to support you through all your walks of life.”
The UNCWAA is proud to celebrate all alumni milestones and encourages all Seahawks to regularly submit class notes to share their accomplishments, career moves, family updates, celebrations and more. Additionally, alumni are encouraged to stay connected to the UNCWAA through news, events and engagement opportunities on the alumni website, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn as well as explore regional networks to find Seahawks near and far.