Trulaske College of Business Celebrates December 2024 Graduates

The Trulaske College of Business proudly celebrated its December 2024 graduates during a commencement ceremony held on Friday, December 13, at the Hearnes Center. More than 280 graduates were recognized, marking a significant academic milestone. Friends, family, faculty and staff gathered to honor these students, who are now poised to embark on the next chapter of their careers.

The ceremony’s keynote speaker was Jeffrey E. Smith, BSBA, ’72, who founded JES Holdings, LLC. As someone with more than 45 years of experience in real estate and affordable housing, Smith shared invaluable insights on the values that have driven his success. He spoke about the importance of passion, curiosity and humility in business and urged graduates to be customer-focused, build strong teams and embrace the challenges ahead.

“You are who you associate with,” Smith said. “Surround yourself with those who inspire and challenge you and be relentless in pursuing your passions. Humility and curiosity will keep you grounded while passion drives your success.”

Each year, the Trulaske Student Council holds interviews with graduating seniors who have applied for the chance to speak at the commencement ceremony. Of these applicants, only one is chosen for the special honor. Christian Hall, who graduated with bachelor’s and master’s of accountancy degrees through Trulaske’s 150-hour Accountancy Program, as well as a bachelor’s degree in economics and a minor in Spanish, was selected to speak at the Dec. 13 ceremony.

Hall offered an inspiring message to his fellow graduates. Reflecting on his time at Mizzou, Hall shared a personal story of climbing Mount Bierstadt in Colorado, drawing parallels between the challenges faced on the hike and those encountered during the college years.

“Throughout our time in college, there was always a running joke that we hoped we wouldn’t ‘peak’ too soon,” Hall said. “I hate to break it to you, but tonight, we’ve officially peaked, at least at Mizzou. But reaching a peak isn’t just about the moment itself; it’s about the journey to get there. The challenges, memories and people we’ve shared this journey with are what make this moment so meaningful.”

Hall went on to share how his time at Mizzou, much like his mountain climb, was filled with obstacles but also supported by an incredible network of mentors, peers and family. "Whether we struggled to find our sense of belonging in our first lecture or juggled busy schedules, we made it to this moment together, with the support of those around us."

Curator Robin Wenneker, BSBA, '91, conferred the degrees for the class, and Dean Balaji Rajagopalan concluded the ceremony with a message of inspiration for the graduates. 

“Each one of you has experienced a journey of growth, learning and discovery during your time at the Trulaske College of Business,” he said. “As you begin your next chapter, I have no doubt that you are ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

Rajagopalan also offered several pieces of advice to the graduates, encouraging them to continue their work ethic, surround themselves with positive people and value relationships. 

“Do the right thing, even when it’s difficult, and never lose sight of your potential to create positive change in the world,” he remarked. “The future is yours to shape, and I know you will do so with passion, integrity and excellence."

With the ceremony complete, the newest alumni of the Trulaske College of Business left the Hearnes Center, ready to take on new challenges and continue the journey they began at Mizzou.

Congratulations, Tigers! Your accomplishments are just the beginning, and the future is full of endless possibilities.