Western Governors University (WGU) hosted two commencement ceremonies recognizing more than 2,500 graduates from across the country at the Gas South Arena on Saturday, Nov.15, in Duluth, Georgia.

A few facts about the commencement:

• Graduates traveled across the world, as far as 7,800 miles from Guam, to celebrate earning their degrees.

• About 28% of participating graduates are from Georgia.

• More than 1,047 students received undergraduate degrees and 1,469 earned graduate degrees in high-demand fields including healthcare, technology, business and education.

• A total of 46% are first generation college graduates.

• More than 80% represent underserved communities.

• The ages of graduates range from 16 to 68 years old. 

WGU is a nonprofit online, accredited university providing high-quality education to students through a competency-based curriculum. This learning program is customized to provide opportunity to those who are traditionally underserved, and to fit into the lives of working students who are looking to grow in their careers. Students can choose to travel to commencement ceremonies held across the country to celebrate their accomplishments. 

“For many of the graduates we celebrated this weekend, this commencement ceremony was the culmination of hard work, determination and late nights juggling work, family and other commitments,” said WGU Southeast regional vice president, Dr. Kimberly Estep. “Their hard work and dedication inspires all of us to do everything we can to continue to continue to increase access to education. We are proud to provide opportunities for our students and graduates to grow in their careers and transform their lives through education.”

The keynote commencement speakers included:

• Jessica Shelley, a WGU graduate, Forbes 30 Under 30 winner, co-founder of LaunchFamily and president of Dailies Foundation Jessica Shelley.

• John Ingram, business leader, philanthropist and chairman of the advisory board for WGU in Tennessee. Ingram was also awarded an honorary doctorate for his years of leadership and support to the university.

WGU will be returning to Gas South Arena in October 2026 for another commencement weekend.