Accredited, nonprofit, and online Western Governors University (WGU) recently celebrated more than 1,800 new graduates who have earned their bachelor’s and master’s degrees with commencement ceremonies in January and February. 

On Saturday, Jan. 29, local resident Ashley Cloer participated in WGU’s virtual commencement ceremony, earning her bachelor’s degree in elementary education. In addition, the students below were part of the in-person commencement ceremony on Saturday, Feb. 19, in Dallas, Texas.

Caitlyn Atkinson, Bachelor’s Degree, Educational Studies

Daryl Augustin, Bachelor’s Degree, Computer Science

Reshaunna Austin, Master’s Degree, Business Administration

Christopher Lester, Bachelor’s Degree, Educational Studies

Dawn Lewis, Bachelor’s Degree, Business

Tiffany Vogt, Bachelor’s Degree, Mathematics Education

Antonio Whitehead, Master’s Degree, Mathematics Education

“Our students are incredibly hardworking and dedicated, which makes watching graduates like Ashley, Caitlyn, Daryl, Reshaunna, Christopher, Dawn, Tiffany and Antonio accept their degrees a special experience for all of WGU’s staff, students, and families,” said Kimberly K. Estep, Vice President of WGU’s Southeast Region. “Many WGU students are juggling family and work commitments while completing their degree program, making this accomplishment even more notable.”

In Georgia, more than 5,000 students are enrolled in WGU, which has conferred nearly 8,000 degrees in the state.

Approximately 76% of WGU graduates come from historically underserved populations, including first-generation college students, students of color, rural residents, and/or low-income earners. Most WGU graduates work full time, juggling school and family life while completing their degree programs in business, K–12 education, information technology, and health professions, including nursing. 

Learn more about WGU by visiting www.wgu.edu.