COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The University of Maryland athletics department celebrated graduation day with many of its senior student-athletes and their family and friends Thursday afternoon. A reception was held at the President's Suite at Tyser Tower as all prepared for a memorable two days of graduation ceremonies.

Director of Athletics Kevin Anderson welcomed the graduates and their families and friends on behalf of Maryland Athletics. A total of 85 Maryland student-athletes will graduate this weekend.

“Today is my national championship - graduation day,” Anderson said. “Our major task in athletics is to have you graduate and go back to your communities and become outstanding leaders.  We want to thank all of the wonderful families for allowing us the opportunity to be a part of your child's academic and athletic experience at the University of Maryland.”

Varun Ram, of the men's basketball team, earned a degree in physiology and neurobiology and boasted a 3.952 grade point average while being named to the Dean's List and Scholar-Athlete Honor Roll five times in addition to earning numerous all-conference academic honors. He – along with women's basketball player Malina Howard – were recognized again for winning Maryland's inaugural Big Ten Medal of Honor.

“Maryland is a very special place,” Ram said. “It is the perfect fit both academically and athletically for me and to be able to find a university that challenges me in both aspects is great.  I can't wait to get back on the court and in the classroom next season when I begin graduate school here at Maryland.”

Many members of the athletic administration staff and coaches attended the reception. They greeted student-athletes and their families and shared stories and experiences over their careers at Maryland.