Scenes from CAHNR Commencement

The force was with hundreds of undergraduate students at UConn’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) on Saturday May 4, 2024 as they turned their tassels and became UConn alumni. For many, this marked the end of their academic journeys at the University of Connecticut. Many others will continue on at UConn or in other institutions to attain additional degrees and certifications. For all of the graduates, Commencement signals the accomplishment of a lifetime and the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

“On behalf of all of us at CAHNR, we are so proud of this year’s graduates,” says Dean Indrajeet Chaubey. “We know that wherever your journey takes you, you will always be a Husky and a member of our college family.”

CAHNR Commencement Reception & Processional

CAHNR’s Commencement festivities kicked off with a reception for students, faculty, families, and friends at the Student Union and a gathering in the UConn Field House before a processional into Gampel Pavilion. This year, the soon-to-be graduates were led down Hillside Road by several horses from CAHNR’s equine program. This marks the first time the horses have proceeded graduates since before the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Big Event

Once in Gampel, students were joined by CAHNR faculty and staff who volunteer each year to be a part of this exciting day for the CAHNR community. This year’s addresses were delivered by Madelyn Engel ’24 (Agricultural & Resource Economics) from Leonardtown, Maryland and Jerold Mande ’78 (Nutritional Sciences), CEO of Nourish.org.

Mande urged students to break out of their comfort zones, to make an impact, and find fulfillment.

“I know all of this may seem like a lot. But today, on your graduation, you don’t need to have the weight of the world on your shoulders. Just stay open to learning something new, […] and use the breadth of your learning whatever you do. And be open to designing your own career Venn diagram, and see where it takes you.”

Dean Indrajeet Chaubey, President Maric, and other CAHNR administrators also celebrated the new graduates. Kristen Govoni, associate dean for academic programs, served as Master of Ceremonies.

The Next Chapter

After the ceremony, students and their loved ones connected outside Gampel for photos to commemorate the day and their achievements. Next stop, great things!