News and College Life

Students dance to the music at the annual Lighting of the Lawn celebration at the University of Virginia

A student dances during the annual Lighting of the Lawn show at the University of Virginia

A graduate smiles as she prepares to receive her degree. 

A packed house enjoys the musical talents of Mississippi Delta blues guitarist and singer Christone "Kingfish" Ingram during Wednesday's [Dec. 3] Lyceum Series performance. The Clarksdale native and Grammy-winning artist has made an impact in the world of blues, expanding the genre while honoring his roots. He was recently featured in the 2025 movie "Sinners," where he contributed to the film's score and made a cameo appearance alongside Chicago blues legend Buddy Guy. 

This is a double exposure :) 

"YEEAAAAAAAHHH! YOU DID IT!!!"

MSU President Dr. Mark E. Keenum (forward) and Provost Dr. David Shaw (back) smile as students come forward to receive their degrees at the fall 2025 commencement ceremony

A proud PhD candidate looks to the crowd while being hooded during MSU's fall doctoral commencement ceremony. 

Two students lock arms to help prevent eachother from falling as they walk to their commencement ceremony.

Illinois State University students embraced the heavy snowstorm conditions during their graduation in early December.  Here, students are seen walking from the organizing area to the arena where the commencement ceremony is held.

After receiving his diploma, Ben Slavin was surprised off-stage by his brother, U.S. Army Sgt. Stevie Slavin, who managed to return home from deployment in time for Ben’s graduation. The brothers were able to reunite at the ceremony after more than a year apart.