This weekend, SCAD President and Founder Paula Wallace conferred degrees to more than 3,700 students who represent more than 40 top-ranked programs – animation, interior design, film and television, and fashion – most of them graduating right here in Savannah. Commencement ceremonies were held at Enmarket Arena and graduates were joined by thousands of friends and family for the momentous occasion.

This year’s commencement speaker was award-winning actor and New York Times bestselling author Rob Lowe. Lowe also received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from SCAD. He told the students to believe in their mission and their gifts.

Lowe said, “You are the storytellers. You are the connectors that bridge the divides of our culture and unites the human spirit. We need you. We are depending on you, and you, my fellow bee can do this! Congratulations class of 2024!”

The 2024 commencement caps a milestone academic year, as SCAD celebrates 45 years of star power. Students received their diplomas at two separate ceremonies.

“Our SCAD stars shine bright in this 45th anniversary
year, with more than 3,700 brilliant Bees preparing for launch — SCAD’s largest graduating class ever,” said
SCAD President and Founder Paula Wallace. “These
graduates join an exclusive network of SCAD alumni
dominating creative professions across the universe,
radiating with love, light, and leadership everywhere
they go. Keep shining, Bees!”

This article appears in Connect Savannah I Best of Savannah.