Attendees at the UAA's annual Graduate Luncheon chomp after chowing Thursday.
Seniors Saluted at Graduate Luncheon
Thursday, April 20, 2017 | General, Chris Harry
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All told, 80 student-athletes will earn degrees this semester, including six MBAs.
By: Chris Harry, Senior Writer
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Kyra Jefferson was asked about the events of the coming weeks, none of which had anything to do with the final days of her magnificent collegiate athletic career, but rather the culmination of her time as a University of Florida student.
Kyra Jefferson
"Graduating with honors, that's what I think I'm most proud of. It took a lot of work to get cum laude," said Jefferson, a 10-time All-America sprinter and three-time NCAA champion for the UF women's track and field team who will graduate next week with a degree in tourism, event and recreation management. "I've grown so much here as a person, but also as a leader and I've loved my time being involved with different things on campus; things I never would have thought I'd do when I first got here."
Jefferson's story was one of many Thursday in the Gator Room, as UF's student-athlete class of 2017 — some 80 graduates strong, including six master's degree recipients — were honored during the University Athletic Association's annual Graduate Luncheon. Inside the walls were individuals who helped the Gators win 27 Southeastern Conference titles and nine NCAA championships during their time here, plus countless academic accolades.
Senior Associate Athletic Director for Academic Affairs Keith Carodine, the event's host, congratulated those in the audience for making so many memories and encouraged them to stay in touch not only with each other, but with the student-athletes who will follow them.
"Keep the tradition going," Carodine said.
Former softball standout Aubree Munro, a four-time member of SEC Academic Honor Roll, spoke passionately about time in Gainesville and eventually yielded the podium to the event's keynote speaker, UF associate head swim coach Anthony Nesty, a multi-time All-America and national champion — as well as Olympic gold medalist for his native Surinam— as a Gator a quarter-century ago.
His advice to the next wave of UF athletes about to enter the work force?
"Lead with humility, treat others like you wish to be treated, and be innovative, responsible and teachable," Nesty said. "Remember your school, your hometown and your family name — and encourage those you're leaving behind to do the same."
On April 27, UF will host the Tom Jones Memorial, an invitational meet at Percy Beard Track. On that day, Jefferson will compete for the final time on her home turf. The Seminole Twilight at Florida State, SEC Outdoor Championships at Columbia, S.C., and NCAA championships will follow. She still has big races to run.
But it was the thought of the walk she'll take April 29 — during commencement ceremonies at Exactech Arena — that had her beaming Thursday.
"I smile with all my teeth," she said. "That day, you'll see all 32."
