WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., December 2, 2024 — Lakyn E. Parker will serve as student speaker for West Liberty University’s Fall Commencement Ceremony, taking place at 11 a.m., Saturday, December 14, in the Academic, Sports and Recreation Complex (ASRC).
Parker, a native of Glen Dale, WV, is an education major from the College of Education and Human Performance, double minoring in early education and special education (with autism).
Parker is a Foundation Scholar, Underwood Smith recipient, and will graduate Summa Cum Laude.
Parker has demonstrated exceptional academic prowess throughout her four years at West Liberty University, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA and earning a spot on the Dean’s List each semester. During her freshman year, she was also a valuable member of the University’s golf team. She has also served as a peer tutor for two years. Her commitment to excellence is further highlighted by her active involvement in prestigious honor societies such as Alpha Chi and Kappa Delta Pi.
Parker is grateful to many for their support throughout her academic journey.
“I thank all my previous educators and professors for getting me to this point. I am blessed by the grace of God to have such a strong support system. To my family and friends, thank you for keeping me on track for success. It is such an honor to be chosen to be the speaker of my class. West Liberty has taught me so much in my four years here and I can’t wait to share my experiences with others,” she remarks.
Parker also reflects on her educational journey with a resonating quote from Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Her passion for education, leadership and community extends beyond the classroom as she plans to continue teaching special education students at New Martinsville School in Wetzel County after graduation. She also serves as volleyball and basketball for Marshall County Schools while attending Newbridge Church.
Upon graduating, Parker plans on returning to West Liberty to pursue a masters in administration and is eager to further help the children of West Virginia.
West Liberty University’s Fall 2024 graduating class will consist of 146 students representing four colleges and six master’s programs.
The commencement ceremony will be live-streamed on Topper Station for those unable to attend in person. Doors to the ASRC will open at 9:30 a.m., and the ceremony will begin at 11 a.m.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
