On Tuesday, December 5, the Albany State University Department of Athletics hosted a Fall Graduation Reception for the student-athletes in the class of 2023.  Dr. Kristene Kelly, Director of Athletics, and Dr. Chinenye Ofodile, Faculty Athletics Representative, presented stoles to the student-athletes.  Dr. Kelly also made a donation on behalf of every graduating student-athlete, emphasizing the importance of the act of giving back. 
 
"I'm honored to celebrate the graduation of our 14 talented student-athletes. They've excelled both in their sports and academics, embodying the spirit of achievement at ASU where Excellence is the Standard. We look forward to witnessing their continued success as they embark on new journeys," said Director of Athletics Dr. Kristene Kelly.
 
The Department of Athletics Fall Graduating Class consists of the following 14 student-athletes: Kristian Grant (Football), Anthony Harvey (Football), Randy Fillingame (Football), Malik Pierce (Football), Eric Price (Football), Jalen Mitchell (Football), Roderick Welch (Football), Barbara Ribeiro (Soccer), Abigail Dalebout (Soccer), Shannon Carter (Track & Field), Jordan Smith (Track & Field), Carla Sorroche Suarez (Tennis), Rufus Brown (Cheerleader), Krisla Railey (Cheerleader) and Destini Willis (Cheerleader).

The Inaugural Graduation Reception was a huge success and will be held at the conclusion of each semester by the Department of Athletics.

"The Graduation Reception was phenomenal.  It was a great idea to celebrate the student-athletes that graduate in the fall.  Barbara Ribeiro and Abigail Dalebout, who were honored, really enjoyed it," said Soccer Head Coach Jared Beauchamp.

"The senior athletic banquet was a successful event that celebrated the achievements and dedication of our senior athletes.  It gave the coaches , administrators and other athletes a chance to show appreciation to the graduating athletes," said SAAC President Madi Hurt.
 
The 2023 Albany State University Fall Commencement will be held at 10:00 am at the Albany Civic Center on Saturday, December 9.
 
For complete coverage of Golden Rams Athletics, please visit www.asugoldenrams.com to stay updated with the latest news, scores, game previews and recaps.  Follow the Golden Rams on social media at @ASUGoldenRams (Twitter) and @asugoldenrams (Instagram).