The Paul Quinn College Class of 2024 was in for a treat on May 4, as they were informed that they would be receiving two round-trip tickets each, courtesy of Southwest Airlines. The airline is the official partner of this HBCU located in Dallas, Texas.
The tickets can be used for any Southwest domestic destination.
“We are so blessed to have people in Southwest Airlines that understand what it means to be a Quinnite. They understand what it means to advocate for others, to make room in our lives for different points of view,” Paul Quinn College President Michael Sorrell said.
Sorrell surprised everyone when he introduced Laura Nieto, Southwest Airlines’ Director of Community Outreach, who delivered the news.
“We want you to travel and experience the world as you embark on your next chapter in life. Be curious, stay adventurous. So, as a little graduation surprise from your friends at Southwest Airlines to celebrate your incredible journey, we have a special gift for you,” Nieto said before asking the students to look under their seats.
“To celebrate your accomplishments, Southwest Airlines would like to gift each of you two roundtrip tickets to any Southwest Airlines domestic destination,” Nieto continued, to a roar from the crowd.
Sorrell utilized the opportunity to entertain the audience with some friendly and sociable jokes. “Yeah, I didn’t get any of that when I was a graduating senior,” he joked.
Southwest announced its official partnership with the HBCU in October 2022. The program includes paid internships specifically for Paul Quinn College students along with ongoing educational and workforce development opportunities.
Click below to watch the full 2024 commencement.
