Locals earn degrees from Emporia State

Although drizzle and rain moved the ceremonies indoors, Emporia State University conferred degrees on graduates during the institution's 143rd commencement Saturday, May 15. Undergraduate degrees were awarded at Emporia's White Auditorium, while the graduate degree ceremony was moved to ESU's Albert Taylor Hall.

Approximately 640 students were candidates for undergraduate degrees which they will receive either this month or at the conclusion of summer classes in August. Graduate degrees were awarded to 299 students.

Commencement speakers included Donna Shank of Liberal, a member of the Kansas Board of Regents. David Robertson, president and chief operating officer of Koch Industries, Inc., Wichita, delivered the commencement address. Robertson began his career with Koch after earning a bachelor's degree in business administration and marketing from ESU in 1984. He was named distinguished alumnus in 2006.

Students from the local area who were awarded degrees are:

Shawn Allen Thomas, Mound City, received Master of Science.

Kristie Marie Kader, Pleasanton, received Bachelor of Science.

Beverly Linn Baca, Fort Scott, received Bachelor of Science.

Amy Elizabeth Lemmon, Fort Scott, received Bachelor of Arts.

Timothy Adam Lockwood, Fort Scott, received Bachelor of Science in Business.