Sociology Major Recognized as Outstanding Student at Graduation

Aiken, SC (11/30/2020) — During its fall graduation ceremony, the University of South Carolina Aiken recognized Amethyst Marroquin as its Outstanding Senior Student.

During her time at UofSC Aiken, Marroquin became a respected leader on campus. She held various positions with the Student Government Association, became president of the College Democrats, the treasurer for UofSC Aiken's chapter of Amnesty International, served as a member of the University Judicial Board, and a member of the Chancellor's Task Force for Diversity and Inclusion. She also served on the steering committees for Latinx Heritage month and for Women's History month, in addition to working as the student coordinator for the Office of Diversity Initiatives.

"She has proven time, and again her commitment to diversity and inclusion. Amethyst is a true advocate for all students regardless of their identities or backgrounds. Her presence on campus has left a huge impact that has bettered our campus community. Amethyst will continue to be outstanding wherever her life journey takes her," says Hoss Brown, the assistant director of student life diversity initiatives.

In addition to her leadership on campus, Marroquin has established herself in the wider Aiken community as a passionate voice and effective advocate in the area of diversity and inclusion. She was the keynote speaker at the Lights for Liberty Rally, an invited speaker at the Memorial for Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and a panelist for events discussing issues related to voting and to DACA and immigrant rights.

Marroquin has also been the recipient of multiple scholarships, and was named to either the Dean's or President's List all four years. She was a member of Pi Gamma Mu, the International Honors Society in Social Sciences, she served as a Peer Mentor, and was a tutor for the Capstone Research Methods course in Sociology.

During Friday's graduation rehearsal, Marroquin applauded her fellow graduates on their achievements.

"We did it! You did it! There were a lot of times, especially these past two semesters, where it would have been easier for you to quit - but you didn't! You managed to graduate from college during a pandemic! I know this isn't how you imagined today going, but don't be a thief to your own joy. You know what it means to be resilient. So, let's go make the world a better place, together."

To view Marroquin's full speech visit https://youtu.be/Z7KRkiBj4JI

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During its fall graduation ceremony, the University of South Carolina Aiken recognized Amethyst Marroquin as its Outstanding Senior Student.

During Friday’s graduation rehearsal, Marroquin applauded her fellow graduates on their achievements. “We did it! You did it! There were a lot of times, especially these past two semesters, where it would have been easier for you to quit - but you didn’t! You managed to graduate from college during a pandemic! I know this isn’t how you imagined, but don’t be a thief to your own joy. You know what it means to be resilient. So, let’s go make the world a better place, together.”