Cumberlands confers degrees to Class of 2019

University of the Cumberlands conferred 26 types of degrees to its 1,537 graduates during their annual commencement ceremonies. 

The University hosted three separate ceremonies to accommodate their graduate and undergraduate student populations. Graduates hailed from 33 states and more than 20 countries.

This is the largest group of graduates Cumberlands has ever celebrated. Since 2010, the University has experienced continued growth in both its undergraduate and graduate programs. Total enrollment was 13,476 this past fall, a steep climb from the 11,821 students who enrolled the previous semester. Spring enrollment was even higher – 13,605, to be exact – a surge which, according to Mr. Chuck Dupier III, Registrar and Director of Institutional Research at Cumberlands, does not usually occur during an academic year.

“My experience is that we have always lost more students than we gained from fall to spring, and conversations with officials at other universities will reveal the same trend,” said Dupier.

Cumberlands’ fastest-growing populations have been in their graduate executive and undergraduate lifelong learning programs, both of which offer a primarily online format. Since the school cut its tuition by 57 percent back in September, its on-campus undergraduate numbers have climbed as well. Nearly 500 freshmen have already made their deposits for fall classes – 323 freshmen were enrolled last semester.

Though the climbing enrollment and ever-evolving programs at Cumberlands have taken much focus and energy to handle, University leaders sought to ensure that newest alumni were duly recognized during commencement for their many achievements and the impact they made on the school during their time as students.

In a letter to all 2019 graduates, Dr. Larry L. Cockrum, University President, stated, “Today you have reached an important milestone in your life. Your hard work and dedication have paid off… All of us at University of the Cumberlands are proud of you and your stellar accomplishments.”

Cockrum continued, “Please know that no matter where your life leads, you will always be a member of the Cumberlands family. And, just like family, we all wish the best for you and your future endeavors.”

Congratulations to all graduates of the Class of 2019!