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�㽶�� celebrated the Class of 2025 on Thursday with its annual Mosaic Celebration, a joyful and deeply moving ceremony recognizing graduates who are served by the college’s Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) division.

Held in the Harper Center, the event honored first-generation students, members of affinity-based organizations, and others whose identities reflect the broad tapestry of the college community.

“A Beautiful Tapestry”

�㽶�� president Dr. Anita Gustafson welcomed attendees with a reflection on the meaning of the word “mosaic”, framing it as a metaphor for the strength and unity found in diversity.

“Each of you represents a vital piece of the mosaic. Each one distinct, yet woven together with purpose and strength,” Gustafson said. “Now the word mosaic really captures perfectly what we’ve built here.”

She continued, “A mosaic isn’t about increasing difference or making everything the same. Rather, it’s about the distinct pieces coming together to create something really beautiful.”

Gustafson affirmed that diversity is not just a slogan at �㽶�� but a lived reality—one that is central to the mission of a liberal arts education.

“You’ve learned not just from books and lectures, but from each other—across differences of experience, belief, and background,” she said. “That is what we mean by being ‘True Blue.’”

As the college continues to champion inclusion, Gustafson emphasized that students being honored were not only graduates, but also examples of �㽶��’s “highest aspirations.”

Dr. Selena Blair, the Rogers-Ingram Vice President for JEDI, set the tone for the celebration in her opening remarks by recognizing the national movement behind identity-centered graduation celebrations and �㽶��’s growing role in it.

“Every year, nationwide, we hear of celebrations that are held,” Blair said. “Here at �㽶��, we’ve expanded the Mosaic Celebration to include any student served by the JEDI Division and members of our affinity-based registered student organizations.”

Blair also recognized �㽶��’s designation as a FirstGen Forward Network Champion Campus, one of only two in South Carolina, saying the celebration was an opportunity to honor students who have blazed trails not just for themselves, but for their families.

“It’s a moment for us to say: You belong here. You did it,” she said.

 “Keep Going”

Anthony Dickey, a 2016 graduate, former Blue Hose football player, and current college success coach at Legacy Early College in Greenville, delivered a powerful keynote address centered around perseverance, service, and legacy.

Dickey began by thanking the JEDI Division and college leadership for creating space for students to be seen and celebrated.

“When I walked these hallways, there was no JEDI department. There was no space for voices like ours to be centered or celebrated in this manner. And yet, we existed,” he said. “We grew. We hoped. We supported one another.”

He urged graduates to recognize the weight and meaning of the moment.

“The JEDI department is a reflection of progress. It’s sacred ground born from struggle—built from legacy. And that legacy now includes you,” he said.

The central refrain of his speech—“Keep going”—served as both encouragement and a call to action.

“When your voice shakes when you speak—keep going,” Dickey said. “When imposter syndrome sets in, when your passions are overlooked, when adversity shows up—and I promise you, it will—keep going.”

Dickey concluded by reminding students of their worth.

“You don’t need permission to be powerful,” he said. “Take up space. Take others with you. And never forget who you are. You are not just graduates. You are proof.”

“You Can’t Be Behind If You’re the First”

Senior Cecilia Perez Santiago, a first-generation college student, delivered a reflection highlighting her involvement with JEDI and the empowerment she found through community and leadership.

Perez Santiago served as president of both Alpha Alpha Alpha, the honor society for first-gen students, and the Hispanic Appreciation Organization. She also held roles in the Honor Council, school newspaper, and senior giving campaign.

“These past four years have shaped me in ways I never expected,” she said. “One of the most defining aspects of my journey has been my involvement with JEDI and Dr. Blair. It’s been more than a program—it’s been a safe haven and a platform.”

She shared a personal memory of organizing Hispanic Heritage Month alongside Dr. Blair.

“That was one of the moments I truly felt seen and appreciated,” Perez Santiogo said. “That visibility changed how I saw myself—and how I moved through campus.”

Addressing her fellow first-gen graduates directly, Perez Santiago offered words of resilience.

“Whenever you feel left out or like you’re falling behind, remember: you can’t be behind if you’re the first person to walk the path you’re on,” she said.

“I Wish You Enough”

Blair returned to the podium at the close of the ceremony with unscripted remarks that resonated deeply with students, especially fellow first-generation graduates.

“My wish to you is enough,” Blair said. “Enough spirit, enough zest, enough courage to know that the place you’re stepping into—you earned that spot.”

She reminded the class that success is not measured by money or status, but by the ability to recognize and celebrate life’s small but meaningful victories.

“Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re ‘just’ anything,” she said. “You are a piece of everything.”

With warmth and conviction, she concluded, “You are a product of this institution. You are what makes it what it is. I wish you enough to walk the next step in this journey. Congratulations—and thank you.”