AUGUSTA, Ga. – Augusta University held a special mini commencement ceremony this week to celebrate graduating student-athletes Avery Jaynes and Emily McBride, who were unable to participate in the university's main graduation event due to competition at a national track meet.

Jaynes and McBride, two standout members of Augusta's cross country and track and field programs, were honored in an intimate ceremony at Christenberry Fieldhouse attended by university leadership, faculty, staff, and family.

President Russell T. Keen, EdD, offered his congratulations to the student-athletes, and Retired Brig. Gen. Jeff Foley delivered the keynote address. The ceremony also included remarks from Dr. Judi Wilson, Dean of the College of Education and Human Development, and Dr. Jennifer Sullivan, Interim Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, and Dean of The Graduate School.

Jaynes and McBride were formally recognized for their academic and athletic accomplishments, which include numerous Peach Belt Conference championships, school records, and NCAA national qualifying performances.

Jaynes, a senior from Brooklet, Georgia, is a two-time PBC Cross Country Runner of the Year and the school and Peach Belt record holder in both the 5,000m and 10,000m.
 

McBride, a senior from Peachtree City, Georgia, is a USTFCCCA All-Region honoree and holds the school record in the 3,000m steeplechase.

The event served as a celebration of their contributions to Jaguar Athletics and their commitment to academic and athletic excellence.

Augusta Athletics extends its gratitude to the Augusta University faculty, staff, and campus partners who helped organize and support the ceremony.
 

 
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