About 62% of the graduating students in the class of 2019 were first-generation students whose parents didn’t receive bachelor’s degrees. Among them, almost 49% were underrepresented minority students.

“We are so proud of all of the accomplishments of all of our graduates,” said Dr. Frank R. Lamas, vice president for the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “We can’t wait to see what their futures hold. This weekend is a time for celebrating with family and friends all of your hard work and achievements.”

Fresno State’s 6,229-student class of 2019 consisted of:

• 5,065 students who received a degree in summer or fall 2018 or are pending final review in spring 2019 for their baccalaureate degrees
• 1,061 who received a degree in summer or fall 2018 or are pending final review in spring 2019 for their post-baccalaureate degrees

The doctoral cohorts and candidate breakdowns are:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice, 38
• Doctor of Physical Therapy, 32
• Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership, 33

Summa cum laude (with highest praise) distinction for a GPA of 3.9 to 4.0 was earned by 260 students, with 47 of those earning straight A’s.

Honorary doctorates were awarded to businessman John C. Harris and journalist Janis “Jan” Yanehiro.

Honorary doctoral degrees are awarded on behalf of the California State University system and Fresno State in recognition of excellence and extraordinary achievement in significant areas of human endeavor that embody the objectives and ideals of the CSU system. They recognize men and women whose lives and significant achievements should serve as examples of the California State University’s aspirations for its diverse student body.

To read more about Harris and Yanehiro, visit Fresno State News.

Visit Fresno State News or the Fresno State Facebook page this week to see photos from the 2019 commencement ceremonies.