One hundred and fifty graduates made their next steps into the future at the Ohio University Southern graduation recognition ceremony Friday evening.

A huge crowd packed the Shafer Courtyard on the campus, braving the sweltering heat to watch the event. Several onlookers fanned themselves and sipped on water as the graduates were honored.

“I’ve got a lot of family here,” graduate Natalie Adams of South Point said.

Her family, including her husband and two children, came to celebrate with the Human Service Technology major. Although she is planning on enter the workforce, Adams said she wants to complete her bachelor’s

degree.

“I am so excited,” she said before the ceremony. “I plan on getting a job,I really want to work as a caseworker. I also want to continue my education.”

Nursing graduate Dawnya Boggs of Coal Grove was equally excited to begin life after college.

Boggs, who was joined by her husband, three sons, parents and grandparents, said she hopes to go to work for Kings Daughters Medical Center.

“I’m happy, extremely happy,” she said as she smiled.

Honors graduate Chrystal Rucker began the ceremony with the invocation and the Pledge of Alligence.

Faculty awards were presented by Dr. Miki Crawford; additional faculty speakers included Dr. William R. Willan, interim dean and Dr. David Lucas, acting associate dean of the campus. Graduate Steve Shelton was the vocalist.

Dr. Dan Evans, executive dean of Regional Campuses congratulated the students on a job well done. Evans told the graduates that although it had been said commencement marks the beginning not the end, it was indeed an end - an end to a very important chapter in their lives. He instructed the students to enjoy their day with their families and friends.

“Take the weekend off,” he said. “After all, you begin the next chapter on Monday.”

A reception for the graduates followed the ceremony.