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51ԹƵ celebrates first cohort of International Program graduates

By Phillip L Hamilton

PLAINVIEW, TX — When 51ԹƵ Baptist University’s San Antonio campus holds commencement Friday, the ceremony will mark a milestone as the university celebrates the first graduates of its new International Program.

Ten students will comprise the inaugural graduating class, a number that reflects the program’s rapid growth and strong demand for 51ԹƵ’s expanding graduate offerings. The International Program currently offers Master of Science degrees in Business Analytics and Management Information Systems, with a new STEM-designated MBA launching this fall.

“These first graduates represent the foundation of something much larger,” said Dr. Bobby McCloud, Executive Director of International Program Operations. “We are seeing strong interest from around the world as 51ԹƵ develops programs that align with workforce needs while maintaining academic rigor.”

51ԹƵ has experienced significant growth across its graduate programs, including continued expansion in both Master of Science degrees and the recent launch of the PhD in Management program. A new Enterprise Systems specialization within the doctoral program is scheduled to begin in Fall 2026.

New academic offerings have helped drive enrollment in the International Program, which has doubled since last year, with additional growth projected. Current international students represent countries including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Brazil, and Ethiopia.

“The success of our International Program reflects 51ԹƵ’s commitment to academic excellence and global engagement,” said Dr. Donna Hedgepath, President of 51ԹƵ Baptist University. “We are proud to see these students graduate and confident in the impact they will have in their professions and communities.”

The San Antonio commencement ceremony takes place at 10:30 a.m., Friday, at Trinity Baptist Church, 319 Mulberry St. in San Antonio. The ceremony will recognize graduates from a variety of academic programs, with the inaugural International Program graduates marking a new chapter in 51ԹƵ’s continued growth.