Former astronaut Jim Voss spoke to the graduating class of 2014 at Auburn University's fall graduation ceremonies at the Auburn Arena on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Doctorates, masters and bachelor's degrees were awarded to 1,497 graduating students during two ceremonies at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., according to Auburn University President Jay Gogue.
"Today as you graduate, you leave one of the finest universities in the world," Voss said to the graduates. "It's one that excels in many fields, in engineering, business, veterinary medicine and even the exploration of space."
Voss said he was one of six Auburn alumni who had been to space as NASA astronauts.
Voss graduated from Auburn in 1972 and retired from NASA in 2003. During his time as an astronaut he spent 201 days in space, including four shuttle missions and a six-month stay on the International Space Station.
"When I was sitting in your place many, many years ago, I didn't really believe that I could achieve something special, but I was able to," Voss said. "I encourage you to continue to seek paths to fulfill your dreams, even when they are hard or filled with risks."
Many student athletes graduated, including Sammie Coates, Quan Bray and former Auburn football player Carnell "Cadillac" Williams.
Williams returned to school after a seven year career in the NFL.
"It's definitely been a joy and a blessing just to be back here on this campus," Williams said. "It almost feels like I never left."
When Auburn basketball player KT Harrell's name was called a large cheer erupted from the floor entranceway to the arena. It was Coach Bruce Pearl with the rest of the basketball team who had come to watch their teammate graduate with a degree in psychology.
A graduate from each college was selected as Student Marshal to lead the rest of the graduates to the stage.
"I think it was just a combination of my GPA and maybe faculty recommendations," said Lindsay Rife, a graduate in graphic design and Student Marshal for the College of Architecture, Design, and Construction. "I'm not actually sure, but I accepted it."
Rife said she just got a job offer the day before graduation.
"It's surreal, it's just been whirlwind," Rife said. "I feel excited, but I'm also kind of nostalgic and sentimental."
Lauren Orso, a graduate in interdisciplinary studies focusing on communication, psychology and non-profit studies, wants to stay in Auburn and work for the University.
"It feels great (to graduate)," Orso said. "It feels like a big accomplishment. This was always a dream."
Carl Lyness, a graduate in building construction, is staying in Auburn to finish his master's degree.
"I feel awesome," Lyness said. "It's really great to just be here with the Auburn family, and have everyone supporting you all at once. It just really feels awesome."
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