Florida State University (FSU) is celebrating its 175th anniversary, reflecting on its rich commencement traditions that connect generations of graduates. The history of commencement at FSU began in 1857 with the West Florida Seminary, where the first diploma was awarded to Eugenia 'Jeannie' Tatum in 1880. Over the years, commencement evolved from small ceremonies to significant events, especially after the institution became Florida State College for Women in 1905 and later transitioned to Florida State University in 1947, allowing male students to enroll. The ceremonies have featured prominent speakers, including civil rights leader Rosa Parks and actor Burt Reynolds, emphasizing the university's commitment to honoring its heritage and inspiring graduates. In recent years, FSU has achieved record graduation numbers, with 8,926 degrees conferred in Spring 2025, showcasing its growth and the lasting impact of its commencement traditions. The upcoming Spring 2026 commencement will honor Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, further highlighting the university's connection to influential alumni.