Class of 2021 celebrates commencement on the Horseshoe

Posted on: May 25, 2021; Updated on: May 25, 2021
By Rob Schaller, schallew@law.sc.edu

On Friday, May 7, the University of South Carolina School of Law held its commencement ceremony on the historic Horseshoe, with the 196 members of the Class of 2021 becoming the school’s newest alumni. It was one more sign of a return to “normalcy” as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wane. Congratulations graduates!

Graduate Reflections

Ariyana Gore with her grandmother after the ceremony

Ariyana Gore '21

The ceremony was absolutely beautiful. There are no words to describe the feeling I had when I arrived on the horseshoe and saw my family and everyone else's loved ones cheering and congratulating us for this achievement. The pride I saw on my mother and grandmother's face as they stood there watching me walk to my seat made all the long nights studying and sacrifices worthwhile.

For me, it was the first time I was able to see many of my classmates since abruptly leaving school in March of 2020. This ceremony allowed us to formally close out this chapter and recognize all of the growth and change that occurred in the past three years. The weather was perfect, the words spoken by Dean Hubbard left me feeling proud of this accomplishment and motivated for what's next.

I am so appreciative of everyone at the law school and the University for working tirelessly to ensure we could have a safe and meaningful graduation ceremony.

Morgan Spires and Dean Hubbard during the ceremony

Morgan Spires '21

Commencement was incredibly special, particularly because many of us have not been in the same place since 1L year. I loved getting to see everyone in a somewhat normal environment and collectively celebrate our accomplishments together. The inclusivity of the entire day made us all feel special.

My favorite part was the moment of silence for Jason [Dunn, a classmate who died in 2020], Professor Stravitz and Professor Felix. Dean Hubbard greatly honored their memory and service our law school community in a meaningful and memorable way.

The prestige of our alumni and our reputation in the state illuminate the hospitality of our staff, the esteem of our faculty, and the dedication of Deans Wilcox and Hubbard. All of these factors made UofSC Law the only choice for me. As a recent alumna, I can attest that this reputation is well-deserved.

Ryan Romano and his wife after the ceremony

Ryan Romano '21

I was very thankful to have an in-person ceremony. Law school requires an immense amount of support from family and comradery among classmates and it was special to be able to celebrate the accomplishment together.

I enjoyed the ceremony, especially Dean Hubbard's speech. His remarks were very inspirational and made me excited for the next chapter of life- starting practice.

The best part was seeing my wife after the ceremony who has been an immeasurable source of support these last three years.

Joseph F. Rice School of Law