DAYTON — Nearly 300 undergraduate students, including those listed below, received degrees at the University of Dayton’s 2015 fall commencement ceremony Dec. 19, in University of Dayton Arena.

The following local students earned their degrees:

Jessica Smith, of Bellefontaine; James Harless, of Greenville; Genavieve Wendel, of Fort Recovery; Drew Elson, of Minster; and Kendra Rindler, of Saint Henry.

The University of Dayton is a top-tier, national, Catholic, research institution. Founded in 1850 by the Society of Mary (the Marianists), they focus on educating the whole person, connecting learning with leadership and service. Through student clubs, campus recreation, education abroad, research, service-learning and career preparation, students are encouraged to engage the world, developing a critical mind and compassionate heart.