Flau’jae Johnson, and more react as Olivia Dunne celebrates LSU graduation

Olivia Dunne marked a significant milestone in her life, celebrating her graduation from Louisiana State University (LSU). Dunne, one of the most financially successful female athletes in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era majored in interdisciplinary studies.

Sharing the joyous occasion on social media, Dunne posted a series of photos with the caption, “Forever LSU.”

She was dressed in a white outfit paired with clear heels and proudly displayed her diploma in the photos. Fellow athletes, including LSU Tiger Flau’jae Johnson, joined Dunne's vast online community in celebrating her achievement.

Flau’jae Johnson's comment on Olivia Dunne's Instagram post (Image via Instagram/@Livvydunne)

A few other athletes including Lexi Zeiss and Aleah Finnegan left comments on her post.

The comments on Dunne's post (Image via Instagram/@Livvydunne)

Dunne had completed her degree earlier this year but decided to return to LSU for one more season. The 22-year-old gymnast, who contributed to LSU’s national championship victory during her senior year, is making the most of her fifth and final year of eligibility.

Olivia Dunne leading on and off the mat

Olivia Dunne of the LSU Tigers competes at The Gymnastics 101 Exhibition in Pete Maravich Assembly Center on December 16, 2024 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. - Source: Getty

With more than 13.5 million followers on Instagram and TikTok, Olivia Dunne has built a powerful social media presence. Her NIL deals are valued at approximately $4.2 million according to On3. Her focus though will fully be on helping her teammates and leading the Tigers to a back-to-back championship win.

The LSU Tigers made their highly anticipated return to the mats on Monday for the Gym 101 exhibition at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. This was their first appearance on the mat since clinching the national title in April.

Dunne executed a back somersault and a seamless cartwheel on the balance beam. During her floor exercise routine, she executed a double overhead move that drew an electrified response from the crowd, culminating in a standing ovation. Head coach Jay Clark spoke to the media about the way the team performed in the open exhibition.

"Some good, some bad," Clark said. "Some people looked really ready, others looked scared and timid. I saw some really good spots, but also things that were concerning. The freshmen seem to have a little more poise than some of our more experienced people, and that’s concerning as a coach"