ST. GEORGE, Utah - Dixie State University held its commencement ceremony on Friday morning.
More than 7,000 degrees were handed out, including a record number of bachelor's degrees.
Commencement ceremony speakers urged the thousands of new graduates to never stop learning, to take chances and to live without regrets.
"In our lives each one of us will be presented with various opportunities, it is important that we seize these opportunities, whether they take place in academics, at work, or within the family," said Devon Montgomery, associate degree representative.
Friday's commencement is the first after Dixie was named a university. Administrators honored the Utah legislators who helped make that possible.
Rep. Don Ipson, R-St. George, and Sen. Steve Urqhart, R-Washington County, the Excellence in Education award.
"By word and deed, your presence has enriched the lives of students and served as an example for all," a speaker said.
Zach Whitney has more from the Southern Utah Bureau.
