Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), a proud cornerstone of academic excellence and Black educational heritage, is poised to honor a remarkable class of graduates during its 114th Summer Commencement Convocation. The milestone event will take place on Saturday, August 9, at 9:00 a.m. in the historic William “Billy” J. Nicks, Sr. Building, fondly known as the Baby Dome.

Under the leadership of President Dr. Tomikia P. LeGrande, the university will confer degrees upon 277 graduates, each one a testament to resilience, determination, and academic rigor. The class includes:

190 bachelor’s degree recipients

69 master’s degree recipients

18 doctoral degree recipients

In a particularly inspiring achievement, more than 50 of the undergraduate graduates are first-generation college students, highlighting PVAMU’s enduring mission to expand educational access and transform communities. Each of these graduates represents a generational leap forward—breaking cycles, building legacies, and blazing trails.

A Trailblazing Voice at the Podium

The keynote speaker for this summer’s commencement is Melonie D. Parker, Vice President of Employee Engagement at Google. A national thought leader in workplace inclusion and culture, Parker champions a transformative vision of diversity with her trademark motto: “Adding In instead of Fitting In.” Her address is expected to leave graduates inspired and emboldened as they prepare to take on the next chapters of their professional and personal journeys.

A Legacy Rooted in Progress

Founded in 1876, Prairie View A&M University holds the distinction of being the first state-supported institution of higher learning for African Americans in Texas. Established during the Reconstruction era, PVAMU was born of a vision for equity and empowerment through education. Today, nearly 150 years later, the university remains a vibrant force in higher education—producing leaders, innovators, and change agents who carry forward its legacy of service, scholarship, and social impact.

The summer convocation is more than a graduation—it’s a celebration of Black excellence, academic triumph, and the power of education to uplift families and entire communities.

Watch Live

Family, friends, alumni, and supporters are invited to join the celebration by tuning in to the live stream at PVAMU YouTube Channel.

For more information, visit the official university website at www.pvamu.edu.