Tyler Raley selected as student marshal for Auburn University's fall 2024 commencement

Dylan Duke | 12/6/2024

Tyler Raley, a graduating senior from Birmingham, Alabama, has been named the fall 2024 graduation marshal for the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University.

Raley will graduate with a degree in Journalism-Sports Production, hoping to pursue a career in athletics as an editor. At Auburn, Raley was a contributor to the Auburn Wire and sports writer for the Auburn Plainsman. Additionally, he was heavily involved in the Auburn Marching Band and its auxiliary programs.

Growing up surrounded by athletics, Raley always knew that he wanted to apply sports to work but didn't know exactly how. As he grew older, he was able to explore the different occupations in a sports-related field.

"I quickly found storytelling to be a strong passion of mine, because every person has a story, and every story matters," Raley said. "It is especially true for athletics as no two games or events will ever be the same, which keeps me on my toes and keeps my story possibilities wide open. I hope to embody that throughout my life."

With two older siblings who graduated from Auburn, Raley knew exactly where to pursue his studies in sports journalism.

"I desired to obtain a quality education while also becoming a true Auburn man, being an individual who never gives up and strives to be a role model for those around him," Raley said. "The classes I have taken, along with the on-campus experience I have gained, has given me a unique lens to view storytelling."

After graduating, Raley will return home to The Shelby County Reporter in Columbiana, Alabama, as a full-time staff writer. Raley hopes to continue his education with a master's degree in sports journalism and eventually become a national sports reporter for a major media outlet.

"Tyler Raley's leadership, involvement and hard work encompass everything the Auburn Creed stands for," said College of Liberal Arts Dean Jason Hicks. "We are so happy to see Tyler has been chosen to lead his graduating class and we look forward to following his journey in sports journalism."

The university will host the College of Liberal Arts commencement ceremony at 8 a.m. CT on Saturday, Dec. 14. The commencement address will be delivered from Auburn alumnus and Chairman of Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP Gerald Pouncey. Additional information, including updates regarding inclement weather, is available on the commencement website and information will be posted on the Facebook and Instagram accounts.

All ceremonies will be livestreamed, with recordings available on the commencement website following the weekend festivities, and graduates and their families are encouraged to check the website regularly for updated information.

Tags: Communication and Journalism Students