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As the spring 2025 semester nears its conclusion, Florida State University is gearing up to commemorate the accomplishments of its newest group of graduates. This year’s ceremony holds special importance as FSU will pay tribute to its largest graduating class ever, with 8,926 degrees anticipated to be conferred.
The events, set for May 2-3 at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, will serve as a tribute to the tenacity and resolve of these students, particularly following the sorrowful occurrences of April 17.
In spite of obstacles, graduates have shown extraordinary commitment and diligence. From pioneering research endeavors to significant community outreach efforts, they have made notable contributions both within and beyond the university.
Rylee Digges, a first-generation student hailing from Freeport, Florida, will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Motivated by a lifelong connection to the institution through family and educators who were proud alumni, Digges chose to apply solely to FSU.
Throughout her high school years, Digges contemplated following a pre-med pathway, but after gaining acceptance to Florida State, nursing quickly became a more suitable passion.
“The bond between a nurse and a patient holds much greater significance for me,” she expressed. “I aspired to establish a profound connection with my patients.”
During her tenure at FSU, Digges actively engaged in a variety of extracurricular pursuits. As vice president of Seminole Nursing, she organized the senior banquet for the college, an event symbolizing the dedication and hard work necessary to excel in the strenuous program.
Digges also completed her preceptorship in labor and delivery, reinforcing her decision to focus on women’s health. Looking forward, Digges intends to return to a rural community akin to her hometown to deliver accessible women’s health services.
“I would love to establish a women’s health facility in those rural areas,” she stated. “Many individuals miss out on crucial services like pap smears and mammograms because it’s inconvenient to drive an hour or more.”
Digges will carry a deep affinity for FSU’s traditions and campus. Her university journey has been characterized by personal development, academic success, and a clear vision for her future.
“No one anticipates that their final days of college will conclude as they have this semester, but I am immensely proud to be part of a student body that is both resilient and supportive,” she remarked.
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry student Yudan Chen is finalizing his doctorate in chemistry with a focus on solid-state batteries, an innovative technology in energy storage. His research encompasses various aspects of battery studies, including material development and the exploration of failure mechanisms.
Originally from Chongqing, China, Chen relocated to Tallahassee in August 2020. He selected Florida State University for its stellar reputation in materials chemistry research and the ability to utilize advanced instrumentation at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.
Participating in this semester’s commencement ceremony is a significant milestone for Chen as it represents the commitment, perseverance, and academic development he has achieved throughout his doctoral journey.
“From loss, we derive purpose. From heartbreak, we derive strength. And today, from sorrow, we rise with love and respect,” Chen expressed.
Chen values the encouraging academic atmosphere and lively research community at FSU. He will miss collaboration with his mentor, Yan-Yan Hu, a professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, whose guidance and encouragement have played a crucial role in his academic and professional advancement.
A highlight of Chen’s time at FSU is having his research acknowledged by the broader scientific community, including several first-author publications in prestigious peer-reviewed journals such as Nature Materials and Angewandte Chemie. Furthermore, one of his initiatives has resulted in a pending U.S. patent.
“My ambition is to contribute to the practical application of next-generation battery technologies and to foster innovations that support a more sustainable and energy-efficient future,” he stated.
When FSU men’s basketball guard Jamir Watkins donned his jersey with No. 1, it served as a reminder to himself to excel both on the court and academically.
Watkins, who will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Social Science from the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy, received All-ACC honors and led the Seminoles in scoring during both of his years wearing the garnet and gold. He was selected for the All-ACC Academic Men’s Basketball team, the ACC Academic Honor Roll, and achieved academic Dean’s List honors on two occasions throughout his career.
However, that’s not the reason he chose to sport No. 1 on his jersey.
Watkins wore that number as a reminder of his aspiration to become the first individual in his family to attain a college degree. Each time the Seminoles played in a national broadcast, he aimed to demonstrate to the younger members of his family that they possess the capability to achieve an advanced education.
“Becoming the first member of my family to obtain a college degree is a tremendous blessing,” he remarked. “Graduating from Florida State will validate the faith that my parents have always held in me while simultaneously showing my siblings, my nieces and nephews, and everyone in my family what they can accomplish.
“The chance to inspire the younger members of my family is what propelled me forward.”
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me to become a graduate of Florida State University, and for that, I shall be eternally thankful.”
Samantha Haas, a native of Tallahassee, is graduating from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art emphasizing photography. Haas’s journey at FSU commenced in 2022 after she transitioned from Tallahassee State College. Her choice to attend FSU was motivated by her family’s heritage. Her brother, sister, and grandfather are all alumni.
In addition to her studies, Haas refined her photography abilities through an internship with the FSU Office of University Communications, documenting campus life and stepping beyond her comfort zone to learn and develop.
“This was never something I envisioned doing, but I gained so much knowledge,” she stated.
Haas aspires to be a wildlife and nature photographer. She hopes to market her prints and spread joy through her images. Her love for nature originated from explorations during her childhood in Tallahassee.
Among her most significant achievements at FSU are her internship and the chance to feature her work in campus galleries, including the Fine Arts Building and Carnaghi Arts Building galleries.
Besides showcasing her work on campus, Haas also became a member of the Council on Culture & Arts and had her photography displayed in PhotoFest 2024 and Creative Tallahassee 2025. She launched a business, Photography by Sami, through Student-Made, an online marketplace established by the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship at Florida State University. This platform highlights a variety of products and businesses developed by students.
Haas is enthusiastic about her future and aims to make a positive influence in her field.
Originating from Moscow, Nastya Sidorova is set to complete her master’s in higher education administration from the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (Anne’s College). Her family consistently supported her aspiration of becoming an educator, and her career trajectory was shaped by this early passion.
“I always envisioned becoming a teacher,” Sidorova expressed. “Rather than typical dolls, my toy collection included a chalkboard and a pointer.”
After earning a bachelor’s degree in foreign languages and intercultural communication with a minor in law from the Higher School of Economics in Russia, Sidorova taught at a secondary school in Moscow, focusing on advanced foreign language instruction. Later, she taught business English at her alma mater’s business school before joining the master’s program in higher education administration at FSU’s Anne’s College.
Sidorova chose to attend FSU due to her desire to experience “a vibrant student life and the concept of an authentic campus ecosystem,” something she perceived as lacking in Russian universities.
“FSU genuinely distinguished itself as a family and provided me with a nurturing community during triumphant and challenging times,” she remarked. “The technical training and enthusiasm of the individuals in my program revealed how passionate they were about their work.”
Sidorova’s proudest achievements at FSU encompass her involvement in the Sustainability Fellows Program, where she partnered with the Apalachee Regional Planning Council to create a sustainability plan for Gadsden County’s Economic Development, and the Career Ambassadors Program, where she worked to enhance the Career Center’s brand and boost student engagement through ambassador initiatives.
“Participating in projects that had such a meaningful impact on the community was truly motivating,” Sidorova noted. “These roles enabled me to enhance my leadership potential, refine my organizational abilities, and collaborate with a talented, driven team.”
Both experiences were pivotal milestones in her personal and professional development at FSU.
“Crossing the stage this semester encompasses much more than shaking the president’s hand or donning a beautiful gown in FSU’s signature garnet and gold,” she stated. “It signifies two years of navigating cultural adaptation in a country I had only known through films, literature, and music. I discovered that true strength and the genuine depth of your spirit unveil themselves when you are far from your comfort zone.”
In the future, Sidorova aims to bridge cultures and empower students, both in her homeland and globally, to reach academic and cultural excellence.
The post Honoring achievement: FSU’s class of 2025 graduate spotlight appeared first on Florida State University News.
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