MIDLAND UNIVERSITY HONORS THE
UNDERGRADUATE CEREMONY
SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2024 | 10 AM
Wikert Event Center | Fremont, Nebraska
2024
CLASS OF
MIDLAND UNIVERSITY Commencement
Saturday, May 11, 2024
Wikert Event Center
Fremont, Nebraska
PRELUDE
The Midland University Band Director | Dr. Patrick Fortney
PROCESSIONAL
The Midland University Band Pomp and Circumstance | No. 1, Op. 60, Sir Edward Elgar
NATIONAL ANTHEM OF THE UNITED STATES (Audience to remain standing)
Midland University Choir
OPENING OF THE ACADEMIC CEREMONY
President | Ms. Jody Horner
PRESIDENT’S REMARKS AND INTRODUCTION OF THE SPEAKERS
President | Ms. Jody Horner
SPEAKERS’ REMARKS TO THE CLASS OF 2024
Mr. Scott Tatum Undergraduate Class of ‘24
Dr. Brian Maher
SPECIAL MUSIC | “Measure Me, Sky” by Elaine Hagenburg
Midland University Choir Director | Joel Johnston
Collaborative Pianist | Kyu Butler
THE JOHN R. PRAUNER AWARD
President | Ms. Jody Horner
COMMENCEMENT | 1
CONFERRING OF DEGREES
President | Ms. Jody Horner
PRESENTATION OF DEGREE CANDIDATES
Luther College of Arts & Sciences | Dr. Megan Nielsen
Dunklau School of Business | Dr. Nick Schreck
Walker School of Education | Dr. Mary Ritzdorf
School of Health Sciences | Dr. Nick Dinan
School of Nursing | Dr. Tesa Keeling
TURNING OF THE TASSELS
Chairman of the Board of Directors | Steve Feye
CLOSING OF THE ACADEMIC CEREMONY
President | Ms. Jody Horner
ALMA MATER
Midland University Band & Midland University Choir
Gladys Jackson Roger Williams
RECESSIONAL
The Midland University Band Ceremonial Recessional | James D. Ployhar
Audience will remain seated f or the Recessional Please meet your Graduate at the Fountain in the Center of Campus
2
Mighty Midland
CANDIDATES FOR DEGREES
BACHELOR’S DEGREES
BA | Bachelor of Arts
BGS | Bachelor of General Studies
BS | Bachelor of Science
BSBA | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
BSN | Bachelor of Science in Nursing
HONORS
Summa Cum Laude | Gold Cords
Cumulative Grade Point Average 3.90-4.00
Magna Cum Laude | Silver Cords
Cumulative Grade Point Average 3.70-3.89
Cum Laude | White Cords
Cumulative Grade Point Average 3.50-3.69
COMMENCEMENT | 3
LUTHER COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Logan Anderson, BA | Nederland, TX
Sociology
English Minor
Religion and Philosophy Minor
Julia Autobee, BA | Pueblo, CO
Criminal Justice
Jasmin Ballesteros, BA | San Diego, CA
History
Sociology (Compressed)
Politics and Citizenship Minor
Magna Cum Laude
Amaurie Carroll, BA | North Las Vegas, NV
Criminal Justice
Psychology Minor
Molly Carstens, BA | Columbus, NE
Arts Management: Studio Arts Concentration
Art Minor
Benjamin Castillo, BA | Fremont, NE
Arts Management: Theatre Concentration
Business Administration Minor
Luke Chavanne, BA | Houston, TX
Youth and Family Ministry
Coaching Minor
Kalynd Coats, BGS | Pittsburg, CA
Bachelor of General Studies
Ethan Coleman, BA | Bozeman, MT
Criminal Justice
Sociology
Victoria Cruz Cervantes, BA | El Paso, TX
Psychology
Sociology
Criminal Justice Minor
4
Melany Donoghue, BA | Columbus, NE
Arts Management: Theatre Concentration
Criminal Justice (Compressed)
Magna Cum Laude
Ryan Donovan, BA | Niagara Falls, Canada
Criminal Justice
Michaela Dooley, BA | Yutan, NE
Arts Management: Theatre Concentration
Guinevere Ewart, BA | Oskaloosa, IA
Arts Management
Grace Felder, BA | Lincoln, NE
Criminal Justice
Business Administration
Sociology Minor
Summa Cum Laude
Javin Fish, BA | Torrance, CA
Communication Studies
Arianna Flores, BA | Tucson, AZ
Psychology
Criminal Justice
Cum Laude
Devyn Hansen, BA | Plymouth, NE
Arts Management: Theatre Concentration
Communication Studies (Compressed)
Elimi Hernandez, BA | Fremont, NE
Human Services: Childhood and Adolescence Concentration
Social Emotional Learning and Behavioral Wellness Certificate
Cum Laude
Brianna Hines, BGS | Ault, CO
Bachelor of General Studies
Lily Hinkel, BA | Fremont, NE
Arts Management
Criminal Justice Minor
Nonprofit Management Certificate
Summa Cum Laude
Megan Jarvis, BA | North Platte, NE
Communication Studies
Writing Minor
COMMENCEMENT | 5
Sydney Kaspar, BA | Columbus, NE
Arts Management
Coaching Certificate
Jerika Koopmeiners, BA | Council Bluffs, IA
Criminal Justice
Coaching Certificate
Cooper Leriger, BA | Fremont, NE
Communication Studies
Arts Management: Theatre Concentration
Coaching Certificate
Trinity Lewis, BA | Bellevue, NE
Arts Management
Jacob Liquori, BA | San Jose, CA
Sociology
Viliami Makoni, BA | Kihei, HI
Sociology
Jayce Marich, BA | Las Vegas, NV
Criminal Justice
Maxine Mass, BA | Council Bluffs, IA
Psychology
Kamrin Mauzey, BA | Saint Joseph, MO
Human Services: Childhood and Adolescence Concentration
Business Administration
History Minor
Cum Laude
Jensen Mierkiewicz, BA | McPherson, KS
Human Services: Adult and Family Concentration
Criminal Justice
Sarah Murray, BA | Nebraska City, NE
Arts Management
Psychology (Compressed)
Social Emotional Learning and Behavioral Wellness Certificate
Summa Cum Laude
Sarai Pacheco, BA | Columbus, NE
Arts Management: Theatre Concentration
Nonprofit Management Certificate
Magna Cum Laude
6
Keira Painter, BA | Tucson, AZ
Psychology
Religion and Philosophy Minor
Diversity and Inclusion Certificate
Shay Peterson, BA | Saint George, UT
Psychology
Isabella Pinotti, BA | Las Vegas, NV
Criminal Justice
Psychology Minor
Magna Cum Laude
Sarah Prall, BA | Fremont, NE Psychology
Art Minor
Magna Cum Laude
Francisco Quinonez, BA | San Diego, CA
Criminal Justice
Business Administration Minor
Madyson Ray, BA | Blair, NE
Psychology
Sociology
Business Administration (Compressed)
Summa Cum Laude
Garrett Regan, BA | New Orleans, LA
Psychology
Applied Behavior Analysis
Cum Laude
Mattilyn Reiling, BA | Lincoln, NE
Communication Studies
Connor Rinn, BA | Omaha, NE
Criminal Justice
Communication Studies (Compressed)
Summa Cum Laude
Micaela Rodriguez, BA | Canyon Country, CA
Criminal Justice
Sociology
Samantha Segura-Veliz, BA | Lake Elsinore, CA
Criminal Justice
Sociology
Cum Laude
COMMENCEMENT | 7
Sarah Showalter, BA | Lincoln, NE
Criminal Justice
Psychology
Summa Cum Laude
Grace Staley, BA | Omaha, NE
Psychology
Applied Behavior Analysis
Summa Cum Laude
Benjamin Starman, BA | Omaha, NE
Psychology
Hannah Stone, BA | Killingworth, CT
Criminal Justice
Sociology (Compressed)
Psychology Minor
Emory Throener, BA | Lincoln, NE
Psychology
Sociology (Compressed)
Trevor Timm, BA | Wabasha, MN
Criminal Justice
Psychology
Sociology
Summa Cum Laude
Harold Urban, BA | Omaha, NE
Criminal Justice
Savannah Vaughn, BA | Henderson, NV
Psychology
Communication Studies Minor Cum Laude
Kolten Wright, BA | Eau Claire, WI
Criminal Justice
Alixandra Young, BA | Batavia, NY
Arts Management
8
DUNKLAU SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
Lourenco Almeida, BSBA | Lisbon, Portugal
Business Administration
Sport Management Minor
Summa Cum Laude
Merrick Andrews, BA | Gretna, NE
Sports Marketing and Management
Criminal Justice Minor
Audrey Bartek, BSBA | Lincoln, NE
Digital Marketing
Management Minor
Nathen Bitzer, BSBA | Waverly, NE
Digital Marketing
Anastasia Bitzes, BSBA | Omaha, NE
Sport Management
Coaching Certificate
Shana Brown, BSBA | Tucson, AZ
Accounting
Business Intelligence and Technology (Compressed)
Magna Cum Laude
Katelyn Coon, BSBA | Omaha, NE
Digital Marketing
Graphic Art Minor
Summa Cum Laude
Duston Corbin, BSBA | Palmer, AK
Financial Services
Kennedy Darner, BSBA | Omaha. NE
Accounting
Business Intelligence and Technology (Compressed)
Magna Cum Laude
Brooke Douglas, BSBA | Omaha, NE
Business Administration
Digital Marketing Minor
Magna Cum Laude
COMMENCEMENT | 9
Zachary Eddington, BSBA | Springfield, IL
Management
Coaching Certificate
Tucker Engelmann, BSBA | Trenton, IL
Agribusiness
Financial Services (Compressed)
Amanda Envick, BSBA | Holdredge, NE
Business Administration
Juan Escalante, BSBA | Humble, TX
Business Administration
Data Analytics Certificate
Rowdy Finch, BSBA | Bel Alon, MD
Business Administration
Kayla Flanigan, BSBA | Omaha, NE
Management
Psychology (Compressed) Summa Cum Laude
Joseph Garza, BSBA | Alamo, TX
Digital Marketing
Thaison Glenn, BSBA | Lancaster, CA
Business Administration
Alexandra Glosser, BSBA | Fremont, NE
Digital Marketing
Graphic Art Minor
Sport Management Minor Summa Cum Laude
Alexander Goldsmith, BSBA | Omaha, NE
Accounting
Coaching Certificate
Mateo Gomez, BSBA | Liverpool, NY
Agribusiness
Cum Laude
10
Xavier Green, BSBA | Houston, TX
Sport Management
Coaching Certificate
Cum Laude
Dylan Hastings, BA | Colorado Springs, CO
Sports Marketing and Management
Graphic Art Minor
Summa Cum Laude
Paige Henderson, BSBA | Melville, Saskatchewan
Agribusiness
Henry Hernandez, BSBA | Schuyler, NE
Business Administration
Savion Johnson, BSBA | Denver, CO
Digital Marketing
Graphic Art Minor
Koffi Kate, BSBA | Lome, Togo
Management
Cohen Kimmel, BSBA | Tucson, AZ
Business Administration
Data Analytics Certificate
Rece Kissinger, BSBA | Ashland, NE
Business Administration
English Minor
Magna Cum Laude
Daniel Klaris, BSBA | Budapest, Hungary
Management
Digital Marketing (Compressed)
Data Analytics Certificate
Adrianna Krueger, BSBA | Omaha, NE
Management
Digital Marketing Minor
Santol Lacy, BSBA | Omaha, NE
Business Administration
Josh Lambert, BSBA | Nemaha, NE
Agribusiness
COMMENCEMENT | 11
Samuel Larsen, BSBA | Blair, NE
Digital Marketing
Joshua Lewis, BSBA | Valley, NE
Sport Management
Vincent Lewis , BSBA | Marrero, LA
Management
Ryosei Masuda, BSBA | Hakodate, Japan
Digital Marketing
Hilton Mehrmann, BSBA | Pleasanton, TX
Digital Marketing
Trystan Mills, BSBA | Boksburg, South Africa
Digital Marketing
Sione Moala, BSBA | San Bruno, CA
Business Intelligence and Technology
Marco Moresco, BSBA | Malnate, Italy
Accounting Summa Cum Laude
Thomas Moulder, BSBA | Kent, England
Financial Services
Christina Myers, BSBA | Winter Haven, FL
Business Administration
Communication Studies Minor
Coaching Certificate
Cum Laude
Nicholas Novak, BSBA | Fremont, NE
Management
History Minor
Krystal Olson, BSBA | Kansas City, MO
Management
Nutrition Minor Summa Cum Laude
Victoria Orozco, BSBA | Jacksonville, FL
Digital Marketing
12
Shane Orr, BSBA | Omaha, NE
Sport Management
Ondrej Patha, BSBA | Dobromerice, Czech Republic
Business Administration
Cum Laude
Aaron Perez, BSBA | McCoy, TX
Business Administration
Cameron Poolton, BSBA | Mildenhall, England
Management
Digital Marketing (Compressed)
Graphic Art Minor
Summa Cum Laude
Aaliyah Portales, BA | Big Lake, TX
Sports Marketing and Management
Emily Prai, BSBA | Lincoln, NE
Accounting
Summa Cum Laude
Joseph Raymond, BSBA | Kannapolis, NC
Sport Management
Cum Laude
Shandon Reitzell, BSBA | Houston, TX
Digital Marketing
Jakobi Rose, BA | Lincoln, NE
Sports Marketing and Management
Coaching Minor
John Royer, BSBA | Madison, WI
Business Administration
Business Intelligence and Technology
Magna Cum Laude
Jake Rueschhoff, BSBA | Omaha, NE
Accounting
Coaching Minor
Mikayla Sasse, BSBA | Deshler, NE
Digital Marketing
Art Minor
COMMENCEMENT | 13
Alyssa Schreiner, BSBA | Ireton, IA
Digital Marketing
Christopher Siefken II, BSBA | Council Bluffs, IA
Business Administration
Digital Marketing Minor
Coaching Certificate
Josias Solarte, BSBA | Maracaibo, Venezuela
Digital Marketing
Scott Tatum, BSBA | Paradise Valley, MT
Management
Digital Marketing (Compressed)
Magna Cum Laude
Cody Thompson, BSBA | Columbus, NE
Business Administration
Colby Tichota, BSBA | Yutan, NE
Accounting
Summa Cum Laude
Leslie Valdivia Pena, BSBA | Fremont, NE
Business Administration
Digital Marketing Minor
Boris Velasquez, BSBA | Riobamba, Chimborazo
Digital Marketing
Business Administration Minor
Claire Westerholt, BSBA | Waverly, NE
Digital Marketing
Baxter Wirth, BSBA | Sour Lake, TX
Business Administration
Digital Marketing Minor
Magna Cum Laude
Carson Woodward, BSBA | Bennington, NE
Digital Marketing
Coaching Certificate
Cum Laude
14
WALKER SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
Carter Anderson, BA | Oakland, NE
Education, PK-12
Music PK-12 Field Endorsement
Theatre, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude
Tori Baker, BA | Fremont, NE
Elementary Education, K-8
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
High Ability Learner Supplemental Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude
Christian Dames, BA | Scribner, NE
Secondary Education Communication Studies
English
Secondary English, 7-12 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Molly Davis, BA | Yutan, NE
Education, PK-12
Physical Education, PK-12 Subject Endorsement
Chloe Dietz, BA | Papillion, NE
Elementary Education, K-8
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Noah Ethen, BA | Omaha, NE
Education Studies (Non-Certification)
Lynsey Ferrari, BA | Fremont, CA
Elementary Education, K-8
Special Education, K-8 Subject Endorsement
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Kent Frenzen, BA | Silver Creek, NE
Education, PK-12
Health and Physical Education PK-12 Field Endorsement
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
COMMENCEMENT | 15
Emma Hampton, BA | St. Louis, MO
Special Education Generalist: K-12
English as a Second Language, PK-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Dylan Hawk, BA | Bennington, NE
Secondary Education
Social Science 7-12 Field Endorsement
History, 7-12 Subject Endorsement
Ryan Jensen, BA | Blair, NE
Education, PK-12
Vocal Music PK-12 Subject Endorsement
Konner Kiesel, BA | Wilber, NE
Education, PK-12
Vocal Music PK-12 Subject Endorsement
Theatre, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Frances Klausen, BA | Wayne, NE
Elementary Education, K-8
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
English as a Second Language, K-6 Supplemental Endorsement
Social Emotional Learning and Behavioral Wellness Certificate
Summa Cum Laude
Gavin Larson, BA | Pierce, NE
Education, PK-12
Health and Physical Education PK-12 Field Endorsement
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude
Jasmine Lopez Lango, BA | Fremont, NE
Education, PK-12
Physical Education, PK-12 Subject Endorsement
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Cum Laude
16
Ross McMahon, BA | Fremont, NE
Secondary Education
Social Science 7-12 Field Endorsement
History, 7-12 Subject Endorsement
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Psychology Minor
Social Emotional Learning and Behavioral Wellness Certificate
Magna Cum Laude
Megan Nielsen, BA | Fremont, NE
Elementary Education, K-8
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Tara Overturf, BA | Sutton, NE
Elementary Education, K-8
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Jessica Palmquist, BA | Yutan, NE
Secondary Education
English
Secondary English, 7-12 Subject Endorsement
English as a Second Language, PK-12 Supplemental Endorsement
High Ability Learner Supplemental Endorsement
Social Emotional Learning and Behavioral Wellness Certificate
Diversity and Inclusion Certificate
Summa Cum Laude
Reilly Peetz, BA | North Loup, NE
Elementary Education, K-8
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
High Ability Learner Supplemental Endorsement
Social Emotional Learning and Behavioral Wellness Certificate
Summa Cum Laude
Callan Phillips, BA | Wahoo, NE
Education, PK-12
Health and Physical Education PK-12 Field Endorsement
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude
COMMENCEMENT | 17
Antonio Rinn, BA | Omaha, NE
Secondary Education Mathematics
Mathematics, 6-12 Field Endorsement
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Cum Laude
Kristian Rocha, BA | Schuyler, NE
Secondary Education
Secondary English, 7-12 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Amanda Schmaderer, BA | Lincoln, NE
Special Education Generalist: K-12
Magna Cum Laude
Edwin Schweikert, BA | Omaha, NE
Secondary Education
Social Science 7-12 Field Endorsement
History, 7-12 Subject Endorsement
Diversity and Inclusion Certificate
Social Emotional Learning and Behavioral Wellness Certificate
Summa Cum Laude
Salem Scobee, BA | Aurora, CO
Secondary Education
Social Science 7-12 Field Endorsement
History, 7-12 Subject Endorsement
Emma Shepard, BA | Fremont, NE
Elementary Education, K-8
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
High Ability Learner Supplemental Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude
Kerryn Stigar, BA | Huntington Beach, CA
Special Education Generalist: K-12
Cum Laude
Dalton Stodieck, BA | York, NE
Education, PK-12
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Health and Physical Education PK-12 Field Endorsement
Social Emotional Learning and Behavioral Wellness Certificate
Cum Laude
18
Prestin Vondra, BA | Tilden, NE
Education Studies (Non-Certification)
Kaley-Ashton Weber, BA | Crofton, NE
Elementary Education, K-8
English as a Second Language, K-6 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Maximus Wold, BA | Bellevue, NE
Education, PK-12
Physical Education, PK-12 Subject Endorsement
Coaching, 7-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Kaitlin Young, BA | Omaha, NE
Education Studies (Non-Certification)
Coaching Certificate
Social Emotional Learning and Behavioral Wellness Certificate
Magna Cum Laude
Anna Carolina Brady, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Nena Brown, BA | Bellevue, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Lesli Bugarin-Arce, BA | Papillion, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Angela Bultez, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Cum Laude
Bethany Cook, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Cum Laude
COMMENCEMENT | 19
Carolyne Devereaux Cordell, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
English as a Second Language, PK-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude
Rebecca Else, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Gayla Ezra, BA | La Vista, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Rilee Filip, BA | Council Bluffs, IA
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Christina Fisher, BA | San Diego, CA
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Heather Fox, BA | Sioux City, IA
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
LaChe Gatlin, BA | Chicago, IL
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Koryn Hansen, BA | Papillion, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Lauren Hawks, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
20
Brenda Ibarra Bojorquez, BA | Fremont, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
English as a Second Language, K-6 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Tiffany Karnatz, BA | Fremont, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Deshanae Kent , BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Shoshone Kimbley, BA | Olathe, KS
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Abigale Lueders, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Bethany Magg, BA | Columbus, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Christopher Marshall, BA | Tulsa, OK
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude
Malcolm McGuire, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
English as a Second Language, K-6 Supplemental Endorsement Cum Laude
Alex Meister, BA | Council Bluffs, IA
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
COMMENCEMENT | 21
Macy Meyer, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Candice Moore, BA | Bennington, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude
Genesis Ornelas, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Tia Parks, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
English as a Second Language, K-6 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Laura Placido, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude
Allison Plath, BA | Missouri Valley, IA
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Madeline Putler, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Jessica Rodriguez-Gamez, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Juan Rosas, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
English as a Second Language, PK-12 Supplemental Endorsement
Cum Laude
22
Hannah Runte, BA | Council Bluffs, IA
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Early Childhood, PK-3 Supplemental Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Lisa Saxton, BA | Fremont, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Victoria Strubbe, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Jennifer Tedrow, BA | Fremont, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Arlene Velazco, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Samantha Waterman, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
Reginald Williams, BA | Omaha, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude
Danica Zink, BA | Wahoo, NE
Elementary Education, K-8 (TCL)
Special Education, K-6 Subject Endorsement
Summa Cum Laude
COMMENCEMENT | 23
COLLEGE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS
SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES
Sydney Allison, BS | Lincoln, NE
Biology
Nutrition Minor
Coaching Certificate
Emily Ambrose, BS | Las Vegas, NV
Exercise Science
Nutrition Minor
Cum Laude
Emma Barnes, BS | Papillion, NE
Biology
Chemistry Minor
Garrison Beach, BS | North Logan, UT
Exercise Science
Nutrition Minor
Summa Cum Laude
Carrie Beethe, BS | Tecumseh, NE
Biology
Chemistry Minor
Psychology Minor
Brendan Bills, BA | Colorado Springs, CO
Strength and Conditioning
Nutrition Minor
Coaching Certificate
Josiah Brejda, BS | Lincoln, NE
Exercise Science
Coaching Minor
Nutrition Minor
Zachary Brown, BS | Omaha, NE
Biology
Coaching Minor
Asia Bryant, BS | Omaha, NE
Athletic Training
Nutrition Minor
Coaching Certificate
Magna Cum Laude
24
Dawson Butcher, BS | Penyffordd, Wales, United Kingdom
Exercise Science
Avery Cambria, BA | Dixon, CA
Strength and Conditioning
Mikayla Chase, BA | Albuquerque, NM
Strength and Conditioning
Nutrition Minor
Sport Marketing Minor
Peter Chavez, BA | Dallas, TX
Strength and Conditioning
Coaching Certificate
Samantha Creutz, BS | Port Charlotte, FL
Biology
Jordan Davis, BS | Sutton, NE
Exercise Science
Adin Doll, BS | Roseville, CA
Biology
Psychology Minor
Coaching Certificate
Cum Laude
Madilynn Edwards, BS | Highlands Ranch, CO
Exercise Science
Nutrition Minor
Coaching Certificate
Prethy Enriquez, BS | Buena Park, CA
Biology
Psychology (Compressed)
Chemistry Minor
Logan Gear, BS | Shawnee, OK
Athletic Training
Nutrition Minor
Coaching Certificate
Dana Gomez, BS | La Verne, CA
Biology
Chemistry Minor
Cum Laude
COMMENCEMENT | 25
Julia Grell, BS | Cedar Bluffs, NE
Biology
Chemistry Minor
Jenna Grosdidier, BS | Ethan, SD
Biology
Criminal Justice Minor
Summa Cum Laude
Elijah Hanger, BA | Colorado Springs, CO
Strength and Conditioning
Business Administration Minor
Coaching Certificate
Korbin Hardenbrook, BA | West Point, NE
Strength and Conditioning
Nutrition Minor
Coaching Certificate
Lily Harrell, BS | St. Louis, MO
Athletic Training
Nutrition Minor
Arthur Hernandes, BS | Vila Velha, Brazil
Biology
Vincent Huerta, BA | Omaha, NE
Strength and Conditioning
Natalie Iacovetto, BS | Wheatland, WY
Athletic Training
Nutrition Minor
Coaching Certificate
Cum Laude
Aspen Jacobe, BS | Lincoln, NE
Exercise Science
Coaching Certificate
Cole Johnson, BS | Fremont, NE
Biology
Nutrition Minor
Psychology Minor
Myia Johnson, BS | Fremont, NE
Biology
26
Alexis Jones, BA | Oviedo, FL
Strength and Conditioning
Nutrition Minor
Coaching Certificate
Kayden Kehrli, BA | Elkhorn, NE
Strength and Conditioning
Business Administration Minor
Karrissa Kirkwood, BS | Fremont, NE
Biology
Chemistry Minor
Gabrielle McAlpine, BA | Sydney, Australia
Strength and Conditioning
Nutrition Minor
Psychology Minor
Coaching Certificate
Haley Mendez, BS | Fremont, NE
Biology
Psychology
Chemistry Minor
Cum Laude
Tristan Montera, BS | Brea, CA
Exercise Science
Nutrition Minor
Coaching Certificate
Summa Cum Laude
Andrew Nunez, BS | Hargill, TX
Exercise Science
Coaching Certificate
Vince Ongtangco, BA | Alma, NE
Strength and Conditioning
Coaching Certificate
Allison Rakowski, BS | Winnipeg, Manitoba
Athletic Training
Nutrition Minor
Cum Laude
Nathaniel Reyes, BS | Milpitas, CA
Athletic Training
COMMENCEMENT | 27
Alexsis Reynaga, BA | Dallas, TX
Strength and Conditioning
Nutrition Minor
Tyler Struck, BS | Parrish, FL
Exercise Science
Marcus Thorne, BS | Sparks, NV
Exercise Science
Psychology Minor
Avery Tilley, BS | Omaha, NE
Athletic Training
Cum Laude
Hannah Tillison, BA | Blanchard, OK
Strength and Conditioning
Esther Walker, BS | El Paso, TX
Biology
Darby Walsh, BS | Ashland, NE
Biology
Summa Cum Laude
Chloe Wasielewski, BS | Elizabeth, CO
Exercise Science
Biology Minor
Nutrition Minor
Magna Cum Laude
Sydney Whited, BS | Omaha, NE
Athletic Training
Claudia Wilson, BS | Papillion, NE
Exercise Science
Coaching Certificate
Magna Cum Laude
Brennen Yust, BS | Seneca, MO
Biology
Chemistry Minor
Magna Cum Laude
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SCHOOL OF NURSING
Christiana Anuforo, BSN | Owerri, Nigeria
Nursing - Traditional
Zoey Carrico, BSN | Papillion, NE
Nursing - Traditional
Magna Cum Laude
Grace Chipman, BSN | Kansas City, MO
Nursing - Traditional Cum Laude
Emma Christianson, BSN | Council Bluffs. IA
Nursing - Traditional
Xacaria Clark, BSN | Ball, LA
Nursing - Traditional Cum Laude
Allie DeGroff, BSN | Fremont, NE
Nursing - Traditional
Chloe Dominger, BSN | Grants Pass, OR
Nursing - Traditional Cum Laude
Serenity Durham Goree, BSN | Bay Area, CA
Nursing - Traditional
Precious Eden, BSN | Johannesburg, South Africa
Nursing - Traditional
Abby Ertz, BSN | Lincoln, NE
Nursing - Traditional
Nutrition Minor Magna Cum Laude
Roni Foote, BSN | Omaha, NE
Nursing - Traditional
Olivia Gardea, BSN | Bakersfield, NE
Nursing - Traditional
COMMENCEMENT | 29
Natalie Hammer, BSN | York, NE
Nursing - Traditional Summa Cum Laude
Keyana Hastings, BSN | Ogallala, NE
Nursing - Traditional Magna Cum Laude
Jemila Ibrahim, BSN | Nigeria, Africa
Nursing - Traditional
Magna Cum Laude
Aaliyah Jordan, BSN | Fort Walton Beach, FL
Nursing - Traditional
Trevor Kigoonya, BSN | Los Angeles, CA
Nursing - Traditional
Alexandra Lazarus, BSN | Shreveport, LA
Nursing - Traditional
Human Services Minor
Emma Lewis, BSN | Springfield, NE
Nursing - Traditional
Jace Mahoney, BSN | Omaha, NE
Nursing - Traditional Cum Laude
Levi Markey, BSN | Sacramento, CA
Nursing - Traditional
Adriana Martinez, BSN | Fremont, NE
Nursing - Traditional
Mia Orduna, BSN | Papillion, NE
Nursing - Traditional Magna Cum Laude
Jennifer Rascon, BSN | Victoria, TX
Nursing - Traditional
Aliyah Rincon, BSN | Granada Hills, CA
Nursing - Traditional
Magna Cum Laude
30
Bree Roberts, BSN | North Platte, NE
Nursing - Traditional
Rylee Rusinko, BSN | Fremont, NE
Nursing - Traditional
Lauryn Samuelson, BSN | Oxford, NE
Nursing - Traditional
Magna Cum Laude
Andrea Schreiber, BSN | Mankato, MN
Nursing - Traditional
Camille Vestal, BSN | Madera, CA
Nursing - Traditional
Magna Cum Laude
Alizeih Villalpando, BSN | Ewa Beach, HI
Nursing - Traditional
Michelle Wallace, BSN | Broken Bow, NE
Nursing - RN to BSN
Carrie Watson, BSN | Clay Center, NE
Nursing - RN to BSN
COMMENCEMENT | 31
Scott Tatum
Scott is originally from Paradise Valley, Montana and is majoring in Management and Digital Marketing. In his time at Midland, Scott has been involved in FCA, PBL, FBLA-Collegiate, SAAC, Midland Leaders, Residence Life, and has been a member of the Warrior baseball team. Scott was homecoming king, a Who’s Who Award recipient and the Management Student of the Year. Scott has enjoyed creating memories with friends and teammates over the years he has spent at Midland. He appreciates everyone that has been a part of his college career at Midland and is forever grateful to them. Scott plans to pursue a career in finance and continue to grow his LLC.
Dr. Brian Maher
Dr. Brian Maher ’87 serves as the Nebraska Commissioner of Education, a position he has held since July of 2023. Dr. Maher, a native of Hooper, Nebraska, is a longtime educator with strong Nebraska ties. His career in education began as a teacher and coach at Elkhorn and Clarks Public Schools before becoming an administrator at Waverly, Elkhorn, and Johnson-Brock Public Schools. Maher served as superintendent with Centennial Public Schools from 1999-2007 before serving in the same role with Kearney Public Schools from 2007-2015. Maher would later serve as superintendent with Sioux Falls School District from 2015-2020 before assuming the role of CEO and Executive Director of the South Dakota Board of Regents from 2020-2023. In his tenure as a superintendent, Dr. Maher successfully led four bond referendums in three different districts. Dr. Maher was a member of the Midland football team and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics Education. He went on to earn his Master’s and Educational Doctorate in Education Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
32 COMMENCEMENT SPEAKERS
THE MIDLAND UNIVERSITY BAND
Conductor | Dr. Patrick Fortney
In order to recognize each member’s unique contribution to the ensemble, members are listed alphabetically.
Flutes
Reagan Benes, Wahoo, NE
Alyssa Denman, Council Bluffs, IA
Sarah Murray, Nebraska City, NE
Evelyn Rothanzl, Blair, NE
Clarinets
Sarah Beach, Ponca, NE
Liz Buike, LaVista, NE
Madison Jones, Omaha, NE
Laura Ramirez-Torres, Wisner, NE
Bass Clarinet
Alex Wight, Elkhorn, NE
Saxophones
Carter Anderson, Oakland, NE
Amy Dosch, Sioux Falls SD, Kydrenn Hightree, Harper, KS
Zachary Ottemann, Nebraska City, NE
Brendan Westlake, Norfolk, NE
Horn
Erin Osness, Fremont, NE
Trumpets
Saul Contreras, North Bend, NE
Yoana Gutierrez, Omaha, NE
Hunter Jones, Omaha, NE
Jessica Palmquist, Yutan, NE
Antonio Rinn, Omaha, NE
Mik Turner, Fremont, NE
Trombones
Cole Burton, Bellevue, NE
Euphonium
Cole Burton, Bellevue, NE
Tuba
Dylan Robertson, Lincoln, NE
Percussion
Alexander Bigsby, Fremont, NE
Ashlyn Ibero, Scottsbluff, NE
Kevin Johnson, Kansas City, MO
Konner Kiesel, Wilber, NE
Payton McDermott, Anthony, KS
Sadee Ullman, Wymore, NE
Skyler Weaver, Platte City, MO
COMMENCEMENT | 33
THE MIDLAND UNIVERSITY CHOIR
Director | Joel Johnston
Sarah Beach
Haley Bell
Alex Bigsby
Yosayra Borrego
Hannah Bowling
Ryan Brazau
Isabel Brown
Liz Buike
Grace Burns
Cole Burton
Benjamin Castillo
Saul Contreras
Jess Cortney
Ian Cullin
Mason Dahlke
Melany Donoghue
Michaela Dooley
Teagan Green
Dev Hansen
Jenny Harshbarger
Kydrenn Hightree
Ashlyn Ibero
Eden Jackson
Kevin Johnson
Hunter Jones
Sydney Kaspar
Konner Kiesel
Trinity Lewis
Mia Linder
Angel Lockhart
Keaton Mackin
Caleb Malousek
Payton McDermott
Sami McDonald
Janie Munter
Sarah Murray
Maddy Nannen
Sarai Pacheco
Jenna Pool
Laura Ramirez-Torres
Tommie Richardson
Evelyn Rothanzl
Logan Spencer
Brandy Sudario
Alexxus Taavola
Emma Thompson
Mik Turner
Skyler Weaver
Sydnee Wenninghoff
Brendan Westlake
Alex Wight
Sage Young
34
As first-year students at Midland, the Class of 2024 gathered around the “Cross at the Center” fountain. Students each made a wish for their academic experience while tossing a medallion into the fountain. These medallions have been returned to our graduating class of 2024 to wear as a part of today’s commencement regalia.
THE JOHN R. PRAUNER SENIOR AWARD
Named in memory of John R. Prauner, 1955-1977, this award is presented annually to the member of the Midland senior class who, in the judgment of the institution, best exemplifies scholarship and citizenship, the outstanding qualities for which John was known before his untimely death on November 4, 1977, during his senior year at Midland.
A business major and computer science minor, John was a leader in numerous academic and social organizations. He died of Immunoblastic Lymphoma, a rare form of cancer. The John Prauner Senior Award is considered to be the top honor that one can earn as a Midland student.
(John’s father, Edwin Prauner, was a member of the Business Faculty at Midland from 1940-1981).
2023 Jessica Montes
2022 Lucas Weyrich
2021 Theo Blum
2020 Amanda Hansen
2019 Weston Shepard
2018 Gabrielle Knobbe
2017 Tyler Ripperger
2016 Steihl Reeves
2015 Taylor Shepard
2014 Kirsten Klitz
2013 Jeremy Denogean
2012 Taylor Jeppesen
2011 Allyson Doerr
2010 Natalie Meduna
2009 Jordan Goodall
2008 Caleb Wentz
2007 Amanda Fryzek
2006 Elizabeth Rohwer
2005 Kristin Hamner
2004 Janelle Sager
2003 Gina Dowis
Paul Foreman
2002 Lawrence Chatters
2001 RaLyne Toelle
2000
Valerie Rempel 1999
Christopher Bristol 1998
Regina Voster
Crystal Childers
Chad Johnson 1995 Jessica Harnisch 1994
Colby Collins
Greg Kavan 1992 Rebecca (Becky) Eisenmann
Gayle Harnisch 1990
Jeffrey Knajdl
Darryl Blum
Alisa Gregory
Karen Moore
Martin J. Russell
Philip Nelson
Russell R. Gronewold 1983 Amy Doerr 1982
Craig Ronhovde 1981
K.C. Engdahl 1980
Kathy J. Cameron Dvorak
1979 Patricia Schmidt Platt
1978
Richard F. Klug
COMMENCEMENT | 35
TRADITION
MEDALLION
1997
1996
1993
1991
1989
1988
1987
1986
1985
1984
STUDENT
Blue Key Award
Beta Sigma Psi Fraternity
Cardinal Key Award
Tri Phi Sorority
Elementary Teacher
Candidate of the Year
Emily Kleve
Excellence in Teaching Award (Full Time)
Erik Hoegemeyer
Excellence in Teaching Award (Part Time)
Dr. Frank Ferraro
Helping Hands Award
Brittany Scully
Outstanding RA of the Year
Lagi Marina Ahsang
Outstanding Student Ambassador
Stephanie Strobel
Outstanding Student in ABA
Grace Staley
Outstanding Student in Accounting
Colby Tichota
Outstanding Student in Arts Management
Melany Donoghue
Outstanding Student in Athletic Training
Tristan Montera
Outstanding Student in Biology
Jenna Grosdidier
Outstanding Student in BIT
Kennedy Darner
Outstanding Student in Business Administration
Brooke Douglas
Outstanding Student in Communications Studies
Mattilyn Reiling
Outstanding Student in Criminal Justice
Jerika Koopmeiners
Outstanding Student in Digital Marketing
Katelyn Coon
Outstanding Student in English
Jessica Palmquist
Outstanding Student in Exercise
Science
Garrison Beach
Outstanding Student in History
Eddie Schweikert
Outstanding Student in Human Services
Elimi Hernandez
Outstanding Student in Management
Scott Tatum
Outstanding Student in Psychology
Sarah Showalter
Outstanding Student in Sociology
Samantha Segura-Veliz
Outstanding Student in Sport Management
Dylan Hastings
Outstanding Student in Strength & Conditioning
Brendan Bills
Outstanding Student Leader of the Year
Alyssa Denman
Outstanding Student Program
Pinky Swear Pack
PK-12 Teacher Candidate of the Year
Emma Hampton
Student Nurse of the Year
Natalie Hammer
Student Nurse of the Year
Zoey Carrico
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ACHIEVEMENT RECIPIENTS
The Senior Legacy Challenge gives you the opportunity to say “thank you” to the people and programs that impacted you and made a difference in your lives. It’s time to leave your legacy and ensure all future Warriors are able to have the same great college experience you had!
Join us in thanking those seniors who joined the challenge to leave a lasting legacy at Midland! Scan the QR code below to see a list of seniors who donated. Participating seniors are also wearing a pin as new members of the GOLD (Graduates of the Last Decade) Club!
Congratulations again on this amazing accomplishment!
We’re excited to welcome you into the young alumni family!
COMMENCEMENT | 37
ACADEMIC REGALIA
The caps and gowns worn during formal academic affairs in American colleges and universities are the direct descendants of the everyday attire worn in the universities of medieval England during the 12th and 13th centuries. Each school had its particular dress so that an Oxford man could be distinguished from a Cambridge man, or a divinity student from a layman.
Because of the tremendous growth of American colleges, the Intercollegiate Bureau of Academic Costume was organized and a uniform code, adopted by over 700 institutions, was established. The code established three types of gowns and three types of hoods for bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees, respectively. The bachelor’s gown has a long, pointed sleeve hanging open, whereas the master’s gown has a long closed sleeve, square at the end with an arc of a circle just above the bottom. The sleeve extends below the knee with the arm coming through a slit near the elbow. The doctoral gown is characterized by a voluminous, bell-shaped sleeve on which appear three velvet bars. The gowns usually are black.
The hood is the most important and distinctive feature of the costume. The hoods for all degrees are lined with silk in the official academic color or colors of the institution conferring the degree. The hoods also have an edging or trim of velvet, with the color indicating the course or discipline to which the degree pertains. The lining is exposed when the hood is worn. The bachelor’s hood is rather short with narrow velvet edging. The master’s hood is considerably longer, has a wider velvet edging, and exposes more of the lining. The doctoral hood has the widest velvet edging, greatest length and fullest exposure of the lining.
The black mortarboard cap with tassel is worn with each type of gown, although those persons holding a doctorate often wear a velvet tam. Bachelor’s and master’s degree holders usually wear black tassels, while those persons holding doctorates wear gold.
Some of the colors which may be observed at Commencement and which symbolize various programs of study are as follows:
Latin Honors at Commencement Ceremony
Latin Honors are based on credits and Cumulative GPA as of December 2023. The student also has completed at least 60 credits at Midland University.
Cum Laude (White Honor Cord)
Magna Cum Laude (Silver Honor Cord)
Tassel Colors
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
GPA 3.50-3.69
3.70-3.89
White Tassel
Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) White Tassel
Bachelor of Science (BS) Yellow Tassel
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) Drab Tassel
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Apricot Tassel
This program is not an official document. Due to time constraints, it is printed before the final list of degree candidates and official academic awards can be determined. Honors and other awards are calculated through January 2024 and will be determined after all academic obligations are met. Students are listed by their degree earned and their primary major. Additional areas of study are listed on the official transcript. See the Academic Catalog for more information. Office of the Registrar 402-941-6221 registrar@midlandu.edu
38
GPA
GPA
Summa Cum Laude (Gold Honor Cord)
3.90-4.0
COMMENCEMENT | 39
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