The Caraga State University observed its 1^st Commencement Exercises last April 13, 2010 in the afternoon at the Sanchez Gymnasium to honor graduates from its four colleges and graduate school.

As of graduation day, there were six (6) graduates from the Graduate School of the University, forty five (45) graduates from the College of Engineering and Information Technology (CEIT), sixty three (63) graduates from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), ninety three (93) graduates from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) and eighty seven (87) graduates from the College of Science Education (CSE).

This year, the University produced two honors with magna cum laude. Mr. Ken Joffaniel M. Gonzales and Mr. Jay Michael R. Macalalag, both Bachelor of Science in Mathematics major in Applied Math graduates from CAS received the magna cum laude honor. Ms. Joan C. Bernadoz, a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Animal Science graduate from CASNR, was the sole cum laude honor among the 2009-2010 graduates.

Without any written prepared speech at hand, Mr. Gonzales delivered his valedictory speech “from his heart” in the spirit of excellence and challenges that await them.

The graduation ceremony was graced by the University officials, faculty and staff, parents and the Hon. Jose “Joboy” S. Aquino II, Congressman of the First District of Agusan del Norte, as the Commencement Speaker.

Cong. Aquino was the focal person for the establishment of the Caraga State University through House Bill 5110 he filed in the House of Representatives back in 2008. House Bill 5110 was passed into law through RA9854 signed by the President, Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal Arroyo last December 16, 2009 in Malacañang Palace. The ceremonial signing was held at the Sanchez Gymnasium of the University last January 5, 2010.

Cong. Aquino was conferred with the Honoris Causa, the degree of Doctor of Humanities (H.D.), “as a way of honoring him for rendering outstanding service to the University through his selfless contribution in terms of the much needed financial support and being an exemplar of an honest and dedicated public servant”, the justification said. (Full text of the justification can be viewed through this link: JUSTIFICATION) 

In his speech, Cong. Aquino said “When I authored House Bill No. 5110 and shepherded it into R.A. 9854, it never crossed my mind, not even once, that I would be bestowed an honor, Honoris Causa, so priceless and precious. Henceforth, my names will bear a prefix and suffix consequent of this honor. But I am truly humbled.” Cong. Aquino continued, “I called courage in passing the law because I always adhere to the conviction that education is the greatest gift parents can bequeath. Truly, education makes a man. Ignorance dehumanizes man.”  (Full text of his speech can be viewed through this link: Hon. Jose S. Aquino II Commencement Speech )

The theme of the 1^st University Commencement Exercises was “Continued Responsiveness in Delivering Quality Education Amidst Global Changes”.