Seniors received what every student in their last year strives to get: concrete evidence of all their accomplishments during their four years at the university in the form of a senior class ring.
The university's Ring Ceremony, emceed by Dr. Joe Burns of the communications department, was held at the Student Union Theatre, Thursday, May 8 at 7 p.m.
"Southeastern never had an official ring with standard school markings, color of stone, etcetera until 2006," said Kathy Pittman, director of Alumni Associations. "At that time, the Alumni Association entered into a contract with Balfour to design an official ring.  There was a committee of students, faculty and alumni who gave input and approval."
According to Pittman, the ring will provide wearers a reminder of all they have accomplished during their time at the university and give them a special tie to the school.
"Rings designate a sense of pride in the accomplishment of achievement in graduating from college," said Pittman. "An official ring will let others with similar ones know there is a bond in common among alumni and you have something that special."
It was clear the students were experiencing the pride Pittman spoke of as they admired their rings for the first time. Kelli Gatti, a marketing major, was excited to receive her ring.
"I'm in AOII, and I wanted to have a representation of being involved," said Gatti. "In the inside of my ring, I have my member number engraved. I feel like I've got everything wrapped into one, and it's right there around my finger. I'm going to be traveling for my sorority for the next year, so I'm going to wear it with pride."
Among the students present that night was SGA member Stephanie Travis, receiving a ring of her own to signify her years at the university and just how much it was a part of her.
"It [the ring ceremony] flowed really smoothly," said Travis. "I saw all the excited faces that not many people got to see; so I was really excited about that."
In addition to receiving their rings, students were individually handed their ring by university President Dr. John L. Crain. He gave his own speech about how special of a connection the ring forged between the alumni and university.
"The Ring Ceremony is special because it notes the importance of student achievement," said Pittman. "There are not a lot of schools where you have the President of the University present you with your ring individually and take a personal photo with you."
Students interested in purchasing a ring in the future can order rings when they apply for graduation. They can also order online or at Grad Fair. The bookstore also has special ring ordering days where Balfour representatives are on campus.