GENERAL COMMENCEMENT
December 15 & 16, 2022 Grand Forks, North Dakota
Officers of the University
Andrew P. Armacost PresidentEric Link
Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
Karla Mongeon-Stewart
Vice President for Finance & Operations
Joshua Wynne
Vice President for Health Affairs and Dean of the School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Meloney Linder
Vice President for Marketing & Communications
Beth Hellwig
Vice President for Student Affairs
John Mihelich
Vice President for Research & Economic Development Scott Correll Registrar
State Board of Higher Education
Casey Ryan Grand Forks – ChairKevin Black Minot
Danita Bye
Stanley Nick Hacker Bismarck
Tim Mihalick Minot
Jeffry Volk West Fargo
John Warford Bismarck
Sadie Hanson
Student Member University of North Dakota
Lisa Montplaisir Faculty Advisor North Dakota State University
Michael Linnell Staff Advisor Minot State University
The Order of Exercises
2022 Winter Commencement Ceremonies Chester Fritz Auditorium President Andrew
P. Armacost, PresidingPre-Ceremony Concert
Brent Hermans
Processional
“Pomp and Circumstance” — Edward Elgar Please stand during the Processional.
“America the Beautiful” — Samuel Ward Kylar Moltzan
Greetings from the State Board of Higher Education
Casey Ryan, SBHE Chair
Remarks
Angie Freeman Speaker information found on page 11
Conferring of Academic Degrees
President Andrew P. Armacost
Ceremony for Professional & Graduate Degrees
Thursday, December 15 — 3 p.m. School of Law — Juris Doctor Degrees —3 School of Graduate Studies — Doctoral Degrees —3 School of Graduate Studies — Master’s Degrees — 6
Ceremony for Undergraduate Degrees Friday, December 16 — 1 p.m. College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines — 16 School of Medicine & Health Sciences — 17 College of Engineering & Mines — 17 College of Arts & Sciences — 18
Ceremony for Undergraduate Degrees Friday, December 16 — 4 p.m. College of Education & Human Development — 20 Nistler College of Business & Public Administration — 21 John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences — 22
Alumni Association Greetings DeAnna Carlson Zink, UND Alumni Association & Foundation
“Alma Mater” — Franz Joseph Haydn The Assemblage Led by the song leader, Kylar Moltzan Please stand Hail to thee, O Alma Mater! Hail to thee with heart and tongue! Pride we feel and love yet greater While we raise our grateful song. Home of lofty thought and learning, Beacon o’er our western land, Shrine whence still the ever-burning Torch is passed from hand to hand.
Brent Hermans
RecessionalThe pageantry of American colleges and universities, including such ceremonies as commencement, has been inherited from the medieval universities of the 11th and 12th centuries. Academic life as it is known today began in the Middle Ages, first in the church and then in the guilds. The teaching guild was the Guild of the Master of Arts, in which the Bachelor was the apprentice of the Master and the dress was the outward sign of privilege and responsibility.
The ceremony you will witness today will be less formal than would have been the case even a few decades ago. Still, many traditions have been
continued. To maintain continuity with the past, University of North Dakota faculty, the stage officials and the degree candidates will wear academic dress.
Principal features of academic garb are the gown, cap and hood. Early it became necessary for universities to set rules to preserve the dignity and meaning of academic dress. Both Cambridge and Oxford since the 15th century have made academic dress a matter of university control even to its minor details, and have repeatedly published revised regulations. American universities agreed on a definite system in 1895.
Academic Dress
The Gown
The flowing gown comes from the 12th century. While it originally may have been worn as protection against the chill of unheated buildings, it has today become symbolic of the democracy of scholarship, for it covers any trappings of rank or social standing underneath. It is black for all degrees, with pointed sleeves for the bachelor’s degree recipient, long closed sleeves with a slit at the arm or wrist for the master’s degree, or full bell double sleeves for the doctoral degree. Bachelor’s and master’s degree gowns have no trimming. For the doctoral degree, the gown is faced down the front with velvet and has three bars of velvet across the sleeves in the color distinctive of the faculty or discipline to which the degree pertains.
The Cap
Under Roman law, a slave that had been set free received the privilege of wearing a cap. The academic cap is a sign of freedom of scholarship, and of the responsibility and dignity with which scholarship endows the wearer. Ancient poetry records the cap of scholarship as square to symbolize the book. The color of the tassel denotes the discipline. At the University of
North Dakota, the tassel colors associated with academic divisions are: white, College of Arts & Sciences; drab (subdued orange), Nistler College of Business & Public Administration; black and white, John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences; light blue, College of Education & Human Development; orange, School of Engineering & Mines; purple, School of Law; green, School of Medicine; apricot, College of Nursing; black, School of Graduate Studies & Professional Disciplines. For undergraduate students, the tassels hang on the right side of the cap until they receive their degrees, at which time the tassel is moved to the left. For master’s and doctoral students, the tassel hangs on the left side of the cap and is not moved.
The Hood
The hood is trimmed with one or more chevrons of a secondary color on the ground of the primary color of the college. The color of the facing of the hood denotes the discipline represented by the degree; the color of the lining designates the university or college which granted the degree. The official colors of the University of North Dakota, selected by the student body in preparation for the institution’s first commencement in 1889, are the pink and green of the prairie rose.
Ceremonial Objects
The Mace
The mace was initially modeled after a 12th century implement of war. In earlier days, the mace, or heavy staff, was borne by or carried before a magistrate or other dignitary as an ensign of authority. A mace is placed as the symbol of royal authority on the treasury table in the British House of Commons at the opening of each session and is removed at its close. In the U.S. House or Representatives, it is a rather plain staff mounted in a marble pedestal at the right hand of the Speaker. The mace of the University of North Dakota symbolizes authority to carry out its mission, especially the granting of degrees. Made from the oak of the University’s first building, “Old Main,” the mace is carried by a marshal during academic processions and is placed at a prominent spot on the stage during commencement.
The Medallion
A medallion or seal of office worn by the head of an educational institution is a practice that also dates to the Middle Ages. In those times, a seal was used to mark documents as official. Possession of the seal was so
important that it was usually worn around the neck for safekeeping. The wearing of the seal eventually became a symbol of authority. One side of the medallion worn by the president bears an engraving of the University’s official seal and the names of all former presidents are included on the chain of office.
The Charter
The University of North Dakota was founded six years before North Dakota became a state. The original, handwritten charter, enacted in 1883 by the Dakota Territorial Assembly, is preserved in UND’s archives. One facsimile is displayed in the President’s Office and another is used at commencements and other special occasions.
The University Flag
The University flag features the UND flame logo set on a white background. The flag is used at ceremonial events and is carried by the honorary faculty flag marshal to lead the commencement procession. The flag is displayed on the stage during the commencement ceremony along with the mace and charter.
The Awarding of Degrees
The awarding of degrees and academic distinctions listed in this program is contingent upon successful completion of the various program requirements. Commencement ceremonies at UND are planned through Ceremonies & University Events in the Division of Marketing & Communications.
The University of North Dakota is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution. More information on equal opportunity policies and procedures can be searched at UND.edu.
Juris Doctor
Kirsten Yang Allen Grand Forks, ND Law
Tori Beyer Fredericksburg, IA Law
Orrin J. Burch Mandan, ND Law
Patrick Eliase Fylling Dilworth, MN Law
Alexia Lynn Jamieson Fargo, ND Law
Lourdes Jimenez Grand Forks, ND Law
Ceremony for Professional & Graduate Degrees
Thursday, December 15 — 3 p.m.
School of Law
Brian Pappas, Dean
Alexis R. King Grand Forks, ND Law
Alexis Olek Knaeble West Fargo, ND Law
Samantha Mi-Young Leitold Grand Forks, ND Law
Brittney Michelle Tricia Lewis Grand Forks, ND Law
Melissa Marie Lyke Crookston, MN Law
Logan Jay Meyer Wahpeton, ND Law
Alivia A. Olson Grand Forks, ND Law
Imade Wesley Omonuwah West Fargo, ND Law
Keaton Victor Ostir Grand Forks, ND Law
Kayla Anne Peterson Bismarck, ND Law
Lauren Makayla Romero Grand Forks, ND Law
Jade Taylor Solvason Grand Forks, ND Law
Charles Lynn Steinberger Kenmare, ND Law
School of Graduate Studies: Doctoral Degrees
Chris Nelson, Dean
Aerospace Sciences
Robert Kraus, Dean
Doctor of Philosophy
Michael Matthew McLean Arnold, MD
Aerospace Sciences
Dissertation: Exploration of the Handling Qualities of an Autonomous Unmanned Aircraft System Using a Grounded Theory Methodology Toward the Identification of Characteristics Traits Advisor: Joseph Vacek
James Norman Woodbury, MN
Aerospace Sciences
Dissertation: A Cross-Sectional Exploratory Study on Voluntary Reporting of Professional Groups in U.S. Commercial Aviation Advisor: Mark Dusenbury and Daniel Kwasi Adjekum
School of Graduate Studies: Doctoral Degrees
Arts & Sciences
Dean
Doctor of Philosophy
Robin Jewel Smith
Chatsworth, CA
English
Dissertation: Willow, Abuelo & Me – A Collection of Poems
Advisor: Adam Kitzes
Education & Human Development
Doctor of Education
Rebecca Rose Johnson
Fargo, ND
Educational Practice and Leadership
Dissertation: Perceptions and Identities of Adolescent Readers: A Mini Ethnographic Case Study Advisor: Pamela Beck
Eric Michael Pope Rochester, NY
Educational Practice and Leadership Dissertation: Vertical Transfer Student Integration at a Technical University: A Case Study of a Large, Urban, Private Institution
Advisor: Zarrina Azizova
Doctor of Philosophy
Mdmaruf Ahamed
Ames, IA
Electrical Engineering
Dissertation: Design an Advanced Antenna System and Adaptive Higher-Order Cell-Sectorization for the RF Coverage Planning of 5G Networks and Beyond Advisor: Saleh Faruque
Maharshi Dey
Grand Forks, ND
Mechanical Engineering
Dissertation: Development of Sustainable, Efficient And Economic Manufacturing Methods For Fabricating Novel Nano-Layered Materials For Multifunctional Applications
Advisor: Surojit Gupta
Nicholas Peter Doe
Dayton, OH
Energy Engineering
Dissertation: The Domestic Energy Transition in The United Kingdom Advisor: Michael Mann
Doctor of Philosophy
Ashley Friesen-Janochoski
Manhattan, KS
Counseling Psychology
Dissertation: Bystander Antecedent Scale: Initial Development and Validation Advisor: Tamba-Kuii Bailey
Aaron G Mitchell
Bozeman, MT
Education, Health, & Behavioral Studies
Dissertation: The Financial Health of R2, LandGrant Universities: The Relationship of Government Appropriations and Other Major Revenue Streams on Overall Financial Health Advisor: Deborah Worley
Engineering & Mines
Brian Tande, Dean
Rabie Fadil
Oxford, MI
Biomedical Engineering
Dissertation: Assessment of Blood Pressure and Postural Control Mechanisms in Parkinson’s Disease During an Orthostatic Challenge Advisor: Kouhyar Tavakolian Francis Enejo Idachaba
Ota
Petroleum Engineering
Dissertation: Multiple Surface Pipeline Leak Detection Using Real-Time Sensor Data Analysis Advisor: Olusegun Stanely Tomomewo Miguel Fernando Jimenez Jacome Bogota
Petroleum Engineering
Dissertation: High Resolution Compositional Characterization of Degraded Crude Oils Using Petroleomics Advisor: Hui Pu
Dickinson, ND
Teaching and Leadership
Dissertation: To Stay or Leave: Commitment Decisions of Early-Career Faculty Advisor: Zarrina Azizova
Renee Nilsen
Kamloops, BC
Education, Health, & Behavioral Studies
Dissertation: A Comparative Qualitative Case Study about the Role of College Debt and Personal Finances in Career Experiences of Higher Educational Professional Staff Advisor: Zarrina Azizova
Youcef Khetib
Grand Forks, ND
Petroleum Engineering
Dissertation: Investigation of Transient Multiphase Flow Performance in Undulating Horizontal Unconventional Wells Advisor: Kegang Ling
Evan Lowry
Conroe, TX
Chemical Engineering
Dissertation: Improved Pressure Loss and Multiphase Flow Behavior Predictions For In-Line Gas-Liquid Contactors Using Experimental Measurements and CFD Simulations
Advisor: Gautham Krishnamoorthy
Hamed Taheri Gorji
Grand Forks, ND
Biomedical Engineering
Dissertation: A Deep Learning-Based Framework for Food Safety, Cleanliness, and Data Privacy Assurance Advisor: Kouhyar Tavakolian
School of Graduate Studies: Doctoral Degrees
Medicine & Health Sciences
Occupational Therapy Doctorate
Samantha Rae Hudson Duluth, MN
Occupational Therapy Advisor: Julie Grabanski
Doctor of Philosophy
Christopher Ryan Brown
Grand Forks, ND
Biomedical Sciences
Dissertation: Modulation of Monoamine Neurotransmitter Transporters by Palmitoylation in Human Health, Disease, and Therapeutic Strategies Advisor: James Foster Sema Oncel
Grand Forks, ND
Biomedical Sciences
Dissertation: Effects of Small Molecule FAK Activators on Gastrointestinal Mucosal Healing Advisor: Marc Basson
Sattya Narayan Talukdar Grand Forks, ND
Biomedical Sciences
Dissertation: RSV-Induced Actin Modulation: Contributes to Bronchial Wall Thickening; Does Not Induce EMT, and Is CDC42-Assisted Advisor: Masfique Mehedi
Nursing & Professional Disciplines Maridee D. Shogren, Dean
Doctor of Philosophy
Nursing
Dissertation: Factors That Influence School Nurses’ Intent to Report Child Maltreatment Advisor: Tracy Evanson
School of Graduate Studies: Master’s Degrees
Chris Nelson, Dean
Aerospace Sciences Robert Kraus, Dean
Master of Science
Archana Ashok Asrani Ashburn, VA Space Studies
Devin Bissell Bemidji, MN Atmospheric Sciences
Angelo Brandon Centeno North Las Vegas, NV Space Studies
Madison Diamond Montreal, QC Space Studies
Master of Arts
Ashley Nicole Andresen Lakeland, MN Forensic Psychology
Allyson Marie Rodrigues Bento Winnipeg, MB Communication
Paul M. Conlon Grand Forks, ND History
Lydia Faith Dobbins San Marcos, TX Forensic Psychology
Annelise Evans Eaglin Pineville, LA Forensic Psychology
DeAndre Anthony Espree-Conaway Eugene, OR Linguistics
Chrys Folden Grand Forks, ND Communication
Sara Elizabeth Franklin Denniston, KY Forensic Psychology
Scott Frank Harris Magna, UT Forensic Psychology
Azura Claire Siena Sangster Kines Nanaimo, BC Forensic Psychology
Ian Luke Desire Kirkpatrick Lakeland, FL Forensic Psychology
Sara Katherine Kuhn Fargo, ND Psychology
Nicole Liernur Colton, CA Forensic Psychology
Vincent Paul Domen Hilo, HI
Aviation
Erin Melinda Edwards Pembroke, ON Space Studies
Christopher Todd Gannon Fleming Island, FL Space Studies
Kristin Grant Potsdam, NY Space Studies
Carolyn Elizabeth Newton New Brunswick, NJ Space Studies
Arts & Sciences Brad Rundquist, Dean
Austin Mcclain Bowling Green, KY Forensic Psychology
Samuel Anthony Medina Orem, UT Forensic Psychology
Ashleigh Charlicia Newland Marietta, GA Forensic Psychology
Alexa Marie Noe Lansing, MI Forensic Psychology
Ashley Elaine Norris Akron, OH Forensic Psychology
Ayla Nicole Palmer-Joynt Chesapeake, VA Forensic Psychology
Janae Elizabeth Esther Petitjean Wake Forest, NC Forensic Psychology
Catelyn Jean Hulscher Reimnitz Harrisburg, SD Forensic Psychology
Tess Heiser Rickenbach Beaufort, SC Forensic Psychology
Cassandra Lynn Robbins Irmo, SC Forensic Psychology
Lauren Kimberly Rosin Natick, MA Forensic Psychology
Anne T. Scharff Polson, MT Forensic Psychology
Kendall Lyn Tipton Land O’ Lakes, FL Forensic Psychology
Skye Elizabeth Schwartz Coconut Creek, FL Space Studies
Lance Wilson Harwood, ND Atmospheric Sciences
Master of Science
Sena Dossou Gouchola Grand Forks, ND Chemistry
Michael Jowkar Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Christopher Larson Grand Forks, ND Biology
Md Sultan Mahmud Grand Forks, ND Chemistry
School of Graduate Studies: Master’s Degrees
Business & Public Administration
Amy Henley, Dean
Master of Accountancy
Matthew Allen Buckwalter Northlake, TX Accountancy
Jacob Albert Castillo Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Bryce Wayne Hoffmann Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Nathan Michael Peasland Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Timour Shah San Ramon, CA Accountancy
Tara Elizabeth Spear Horace, ND Accountancy
Kayla Vandervorste Bismarck, ND Accountancy
Master of Arts
Peyton Tressa Spencer Jones
Sioux Falls, SD Counseling
Adel Said Grand Forks, ND Counseling
Master of Education
Jenna Rae Anderson
Forman, ND
Reading Education
Erika Ann Brann
West Fargo, ND Special Education
Rebekah Brown Desoto, TX Special Education
Leona Marie Edler Beulah, ND Special Education
Master of Business Administration
Alison Christine Baker St. Michael, MN Business Administration
Danielle Connolly Abington, MA Business Administration
Adam David Fox Edina, MN Business Administration
Michael Thomas Gorman Grand Forks, ND Business Administration
Jean Daniel Jean Roseau, MN Business Administration
Nicole Marie Jurkic Horace, ND Business Administration
Hannah Jane Kissinger Guilford, CT Business Administration
Zachary David Leyk Newport, MN Business Administration
Curtis Ray Lucas Houston, TX Business Administration
Allison Monique Martinez Albuquerque, NM Business Administration
Janine A. Miller
Redwood Falls, MN Business Administration
Alexander George Neil Albany, NY Business Administration
Megan Niblock Houston, TX Business Administration
Bentiu Panoam Grand Forks, ND Business Administration
Abhinav Sagar Whitby, ON Business Administration
Ryan Smith Spring Hill, TN Business Administration
Joshua Patrick Swartzman Woburn, MA Business Administration
Benjamin Edward Williams Grand Forks, ND Business Administration
Destiny Renee-Kausin Wong Seattle, WA Business Administration
Master of Public Administration
Spirit Grey Bull Bismarck, ND Public Administration
Education & Human Development
Cindy Juntunen, Dean
Autumn Giese
Maple Plain, MN
Elementary Education
Nicole Axton Greenlees Lake Forest, IL Special Education
Samantha Ann Haas Eveleth, MN Special Education
Julie Kloster Fargo, ND Special Education
Logan Wayne Kraft Devils Lake, ND Special Education
Kayla Marie Martz Fargo, ND Special Education
Kari Jo Mensen Chaska, MN Special Education
Victoria Gayle Ostwald Devils Lake, ND Special Education
Brenna Nerys Page
Grand Forks, ND Special Education
Amy Noel Pedersen Mapleton, ND Special Education
Amber Rose Rau Red Wing, MN Instructional Design & Technology
Caitlin Maxine Schafer Bismarck, ND Special Education
Amanda Teresa Sherer Grand Forks, ND Special Education
Sarah JoEllen Steltzer Minot, ND Educational Leadership
Samantha Lorae Stenvold Forman, ND Reading Education
Alicia Ann Weiand Mandan, ND Special Education
School of Graduate Studies: Master’s Degrees
Master of Science
Kirsten Elizabeth Baltezore
Fargo, ND
Teaching and Leadership
Jennifer Braun Dickinson, ND Special Education
Christina Marie Bruns Duluth, MN Special Education
Cooper Czichotzki Moorhead, MN Special Education
Shayla Davis Wichita, KS Special Education
Katelyn Rose Fetsch Fargo, ND Special Education
Samantha Fisher Bemidji, MN
Early Childhood Education
Rachel Marie Gahan Roselle, NJ
Early Childhood Education
Ann Gemmell Sundre, AB
Early Childhood Education
Master of Engineering
Jonathan Alcantar
Dallas, TX
Petroleum Engineering
Abdulmalik Oricha Ali St. Thomas, ND Energy Engineering
Lotfi Mohamed Yassine Allam Laramie, WY Petroleum Engineering
Andrew Asante Kirkwood, NY Energy Engineering
Jaclyn Brooke Barnett Watford City, ND Environmental Engineering
Amit Bhandari
Grand Forks, ND Petroleum Engineering
Imene Bouchakour Grand Forks, ND Energy Engineering
Abderraouf Chemmakh Grand Forks, ND Petroleum Engineering
Abdeldjalil Latrach
Laramie, WY Petroleum Engineering
Ilyas Mellal
Laramie, WY Petroleum Engineering
Kaylee Mary Gerads
Alexandria, MN
Special Education
Steevie Lee Christine Jones Huntington Beach, CA Special Education
Caroline Kasowski Grand Forks, ND Special Education
Alyssa Nicole Koplin Bunker Hill, WV Special Education
Hannah Marie Lindley Dickinson, ND Special Education
Courtney Kay Litchke Duluth, MN Special Education
Meera Joy Lyver Waverly, MN Special Education
Abby McCormack Willmar, MN Special Education
Kaleb Mogard Bismarck, ND Special Education
Engineering & Mines
Brian Tande, Dean
Ahmed Merzoug Grand Forks, ND Petroleum Engineering
Nadia Mouedden Grand Forks, ND Petroleum Engineering
Habib Ouadi Grand Forks, ND Petroleum Engineering
Oscar Fabian Suarez Bucaramanga, Petroleum Engineering
Kripa Nayarussery Venu Grand forks, ND Petroleum Engineering
Cooper Ryan Wade Little Rock, AR Energy Engineering
Kristina Lynn Whiteside San Jose, CA Mechanical Engineering
Claudia Yvonne Murray
Hawley, MN
Special Education
Larissa Neugebauer Sioux Falls, SD Special Education
Sean Norton Grand Forks, ND Special Education
Kimberly Pearson West Orange, NJ Special Education
Elise Ann Powers
Minneapolis, MN Special Education
Madison Naomi Schobinger Dickinson, ND Special Education
Ana R. Wermager Fargo, ND
Teaching and Leadership
Allison Paige Westbrook Keller, TX Special Education
Master of Science
Aydan Gasimova Grand Forks, ND Computer Science
Cole Craig Levine Huntsville, AL
Biomedical Engineering
Ty D. Lofstrom Boerne, TX Mechanical Engineering
Samrawit Menda Laveen, AZ
Civil Engineering
Nnaemeka Christopher Ngobidi Grand Forks, ND Geology
Ikechukwu Stanley Nwade Grand Forks, ND Mechanical Engineering
Michael Rosati Pinckney, MI Environmental Engineering
Jared Robert Snyder Plainview, MN Electrical Engineering
Andebut Yeneneh Grand Forks, ND Civil Engineering
School of Graduate Studies: Master’s Degrees
Medicine & Health Sciences
Joshua Wynne, Dean
Master of Physician Assistant Studies
John David Seifert Fargo, ND Physician Assistant Studies
Master of Public Health
Kara Anderson Grand Forks, ND Public Health
Sarah Larson Grand Forks, ND Public Health
Master of Science
Kristin Bursey Blaine, MN Nursing
Lauren Lorraine Diocee Frisco, TX Nursing
Stephanie Adeline Eiler Pembina, ND Nursing
Lori Ann Howard Bingham, ME Nursing
Stanton Alexander Hugger Lindstrom, MN Nursing
Elizabeth R. Jonckowski Bemidji, MN Nursing
Master of Science
Ansley Kathryn Aldridge Deatsville, AL Medical Laboratory Science
David Anthony Camacho El Paso, TX Medical Laboratory Science
Jessica Anne Dahlke Marathon, WI Medical Laboratory Science
Troy Hogan Sioux City, IA Medical Laboratory Science
Jessica Hughes San Diego, CA Medical Laboratory Science
Mai Vue Moua Green Bay, WI Medical Laboratory Science
Linda Marie Ocheltree Elyria, OH Medical Laboratory Science
Jason Andrew Power Grand Forks, ND Biomedical Sciences
Katie Marie Riese Stewartville, MN Medical Laboratory Science
Jessica Rae Trainor Menomonie, WI Medical Laboratory Science
Nursing & Professional Disciplines Maridee D. Shogren, Dean
Kelsey Kemnitz Trempealeau, WI Nursing
Brendan James Kesler Chagrin Falls, OH Nutrition
Rachel Jean Kirsch Fargo, ND Nursing
Richard Macker Emmett, MI Nursing
Adam Gordon O’Brien River Vale, NJ Nursing
Lindsay Adair Presteng Grafton, ND Nursing
Colie Marie Purpur Richfield, MN Nursing
Taylor Gwen Roberts Sioux Falls, SD Nursing
Melissa Faye Schepp Minot, ND Nursing
Shelby Marie Sundre North Branch, MN Nursing
Lizbeth Julia Marie Thom Cook, MN Nursing
Kelsie Ann Whited Onalaska, WI Nursing
School of Graduate Studies: Master’s Degrees
Master of Social Work
Jenna Kay Beilke
West Fargo, ND Social Work
Haley N. Boushee East Grand Forks, MN Social Work
Shawna Marie Burnham Bemidji, MN Social Work
Brandi M Corday Cando, ND Social Work
Katherine So Dachtler Grand Forks, ND Social Work
Mandy Soen Im Goh Bemidji, MN Social Work
Brooke Hansey Fargo, ND Social Work
Kelvin Hazangwi Bowman, ND Social Work
Nicci Hedtke Blaine, MN Social Work
Patricia Hettwer Thompson, ND Social Work
Amy Lynn Hillebrand
Grand Forks, ND Social Work
Nicole Hodgen Harrisburg, SD Social Work
Sara Michelle Jenson East Grand Forks, MN Social Work
Ashley Johns Perry, OK Social Work
Julian Kirk Nezam Khan Calgary, AB Social Work
Courtney Leben Bismarck, ND Social Work
Allissa Lester Little Falls, MN Social Work
Abbie Lee Massmann Glenwood, MN Social Work
Kennedi Jo Mercil Detroit Lakes, MN Social Work
Sydney Rae Moug St. Louis Park, MN Social Work
Nicole Marie Oliver Brandon, MB Social Work
Megan Beth Olson Maddock, ND Social Work
Christa Jo Palubicki Perham, MN Social Work
Emma Jean Rice Pelican Rapids, MN Social Work
Madison Joy Schindler Grand Forks, ND Social Work
Elizabeth Catherine Schlueter St. Augusta, MN Social Work
Aryanna Caitlyne Schroeder Grand Forks, ND Social Work
Elizabeth Averre Schultz Laporte, MN Social Work
Joshua Blair Strannigan Deland, FL Social Work
Jenna M. Thurston Fargo, ND Social Work
Bailey Wethern Bemidji, MN Social Work
Maria A. Wolf Burdick Devils Lake, ND Social Work
Katherine Wussow Garfield, MN Social Work
Commencement Speaker
Angie Freeman
Chief Human Resources and ESG Officer, C.H. Robinson
UND B.A. Political Science and B.S. Secondary Education, 1991 London School of Economics, M.Sc., 1992
As Chief Human Resources & ESG Officer at C.H. Robinson, Angie Freeman is a member of the executive team and leads the company’s global talent and sustainability strategies, including recruiting, compensation, learning and leadership development, culture and talent brand, environmental impact, charitable giving, and diversity and inclusion. Angie leads teams around the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America. In addition, Angie has served as the President of the C.H. Robinson Foundation, which along with the company has contributed approximately $30 million to charitable organizations.
C.H. Robinson (Nasdaq: CHRW), founded in 1905 in Grand Forks, is one of the world’s largest logistics providers, with annual revenues of over $25 billion and approximately 20,000 employees in 30+ countries around the globe. As a services company, C.H. Robinson’s people and winning culture have been instrumental to its long track record of success.
Angie has had a unique career with experiences leading a wide variety of areas, including Marketing and Public Relations, Corporate Communications, Investor Relations, and Government Affairs. Prior to joining C.H. Robinson in 1998, Angie was with McDermott/O’Neill & Associates, a Boston-based public affairs firm.
During her career, Angie has also provided board leadership to several organizations. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for The Shyft Group (NASDAQ: SHYF), a manufacturer of commercial specialty vehicles. In addition, she serves on the Board of the University of North Dakota Alumni Association & Foundation, the Nistler College of Business and Public Administration Advisory Board, and the Gartner Global CHRO Board. Previous board experiences include serving as Chairman of LeadersUp, a national non-profit founded by Starbucks that supports increased employment opportunity for at-risk youth, and Community Health Charities of Minnesota. In addition, Angie has played an active role in numerous transportation and logistics industry organizations, including serving on committees within the National Industrial Transportation League, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. She is also a frequent public speaker on talent strategy and leadership topics.
Angie is a very proud graduate of the University of North Dakota, with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa. She also holds a Master of Science degree in Comparative Politics, with Distinction, from the London School of Economics. Angie and her husband Russ (UND, B.A. Advertising) have three children and a very cute but naughty dog, and live in Edina, Minnesota.
Plans After Graduation & Experiences Survey
Each semester, a survey is sent to new graduates asking them to reflect on their time at UND and to share post-graduation plans.
Complete the survey to be included in a drawing for a $250 Amazon gift card - winner drawn one month after graduation.
To participate, watch for an email from UND Career Services with the link.
Questions? Contact us: 701.777.2117 | UND.Pages@UND.edu
University Marshals
A UND faculty member, chosen from the ranks of the Chester Fritz Distinguished Professors, carries the University flag and leads the commencement procession.
Honorary Faculty Flag Marshal
Thursday, Dec. 15 — 3 P.M.
Dr. Mark Hoffmann Professor of ChemistryDr. Mark Hoffmann has been a UND faculty member in Chemistry since 1988 and was named a Chester Fritz Distinguished Professor in 2006. He served as chair of the Chemistry Department from 2003 to 2010, and recently is also an Adjunct Professor in the Physics Department. In 2018, he assumed the position of Associate Dean for Research in the College of Arts & Sciences. Since Summer 2022, he is the Science Co-Lead of the current NSF EPSCoR grant.
His expertise is in the development of new theoretical methods to describe quantum effects in molecular electronic structure, and the computational implementation and use of those methods for describing reactive and unusually bonded molecules. Of long-term interest are molecules relevant to combustion and atmospheric chemistry, and the elucidation of the behaviors of catalysts of energy relevance. More recently, he has begun to study mechanochemistry effects in the binding of membrane proteins in cancer cells to the extracellular matrix.
He has authored more than 110 papers in peer-reviewed journals, is a frequent invited speaker at national and international meetings, and sits on the editorial boards of 2 journals. He has mentored 20 UND PhD students. Hoffmann was elected a vice president of the International Society of Theoretical Chemical Physics in 2016 and continues to hold that position. In January 2022, he was named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
Honorary Faculty Flag Marshal
Friday, Dec. 16 — 1 P.M.
Dr. Glenda Lindseth Professor of Nursing
Dr. Glenda Lindseth is a Chester Fritz Distinguished Professor of Nursing and Associate Dean for Research at the University of North Dakota College of Nursing and Professional Disciplines. She has a PhD from Saint Louis University and was a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Center for Health Research at Wayne State University in Detroit. She was awarded a Chester Fritz Distinguished Professorship in 2022.
For more than 25 years, Glenda has conducted clinical and behavioral research primarily funded by the DoD Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program, the National Institutes of Health and related funding sources. She also served as the Principal Investigator and Project Director for the NIH-funded Northern Plains Center for Behavioral Research (NPCBR) and Behavioral Research Translation grant. Investigators in the NPCBR have focused their work on the behavioral health needs of vulnerable underserved populations. Dr. Lindseth’s two DoD studies and a NIH study of pregnant women have focused on the behavioral effects of dietary intake as well as biochemical and physical activity measures of young adult study participants. Currently, she works with underrepresented college students as the Director of a NIH funded research training program.
Dec. 15 Marshals:
Jayden Erickson
Jeremy Grohs
Kyra Jessen
Addison Lorber
Alysun Rudland
Nicole Wu
Honorary Faculty Flag Marshal Friday, Dec. 16 — 4 P.M.
Dr. Sean Valentine Professor of Entrepreneurship & Management
Dr. Sean Valentine is the Eugene Dahl Innovation & Character Endowed Chair, and Professor of Management and Chair of the Middleton School of Entrepreneurship & Management in the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration. He joined the UND faculty in 2008 and was named a UND Chester Fritz Distinguished Professor in 2020. His research interests include business ethics, workplace misconduct, human resource management, and organizational behavior, and his work has appeared in journals such as Human Resource Management, Human Relations, Journal of Business Ethics, Journal of Business Research, Business & Society, Contemporary Accounting Research, and Behavioral Research in Accounting.
University Student Marshals
A tradition since the early years of the University of North Dakota, students serve as the honorary marshals and ushers for commencement exercises.
Dec. 16 — 1 p.m. Marshals:
Sunny Charakuru
Jayden Erickson
Jeremy Grohs Kyra Jessen
Alysun Rudland
Dec. 16 — 4 p.m. Marshals:
Sunny Charakuru
Jayden Erickson
Jeremy Grohs Kyra Jessen
Alysun Rudland Iris Ying
Student Honor Medallions
Honor Medallions are earned by candidates for the bachelor’s degree who have at least 50 graded hours from the University of North Dakota and achieve a scholastic average of 3.50 (cum laude), 3.70 (magna cum laude), and 3.90 (summa cum laude) in courses completed at the University of North Dakota. For the purpose of the commencement program and publication, honors are based on the UND grade point average at the end of the previously completed term. Once final semester grades are recorded and the degree has been cleared by the college, grade point averages are recalculated and final graduation honors are recorded to the transcript and diploma.
Special Notices
Whether the individual is the first or last to receive a degree in the graduation ceremony, the conferring of that degree is a very special event for every graduate and family. To this end, it is requested that everyone remain seated until the conclusion of the commencement ceremony.
Photography
The University has contracted the services of Lifetouch Special Events Photography for all commencement ceremonies. The service will provide each graduate access to a photo taken when accepting congratulations on stage and a a posed photo. Graduates will receive a message sent to their official UND e-mail address containing a link to the photo proofs. There is no obligation to purchase photographs. Go to events.lifetouch.com/UND for information about commencement photographs. Contact Lifetouch Special Events with any questions at specialevents@lifetouch.com, by calling 800.505.9496, Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, or on their Web site events.lifetouch.com/about/contactus.aspx.
Social Media
Send a virtual message to your graduate by posting to Twitter or Instagram using #UNDproud. Your post may appear on UND.edu!
Webcast
UND provides a live stream video of its Commencement Ceremonies to allow family and friends to participate, even if they cannot attend in person.
The ceremonies will be streamed live on UND’s website (UND.edu) and UND Facebook page.If you are interested in watching one of the ceremonies, review the list below.
Thursday, December 15, 3 P.M. (CT) | Professional & Graduate Degrees Ceremony
Friday, December 16, 1 P.M. (CT) | Undergraduate Ceremony for:
• College of Arts & Sciences
• College of Engineering & Mines
• School of Medicine & Health Sciences
• College of Nursing & Progressional Disciplines
Friday, December 16, 4 P.M. (CT) | Undergraduate Ceremony for:
• College of Education & Human Development
• Nistler College of Business & Public Administration
• John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences
Free video downloads of the ceremonies will be available on UND’s Vimeo channel at vimeo.com/uofnorthdakota
The Mace of the University
The ceremonial mace was first a practical weapon intended to protect the king and borne by the Sergeants-at-Arms, a royal bodyguard. The history of the civic mace begins about the middle of the 13th century. Since about the 15th century, universities have displayed a mace as a symbol of both internal authority and the independence of the scholarly tradition.
The mace of the University of North Dakota came into being at the direction of George W. Starcher, president from 1954 to 1971. In 1963 he approached Alvin Rudisill, chairman of the Industrial Arts Department, with the idea of creating a mace with materials from “Old Main,” UND’s first building. Condemned for decades for its severe structural deficiencies, Old Main was being demolished as administrative offices had moved to the newly completed Twamley Hall.
Rudisill turned to one of his students, Dennis Kulas, who was also pursuing a minor in art. Kulas crafted a mace in wood and then a second, when some thought the first might be too heavy for ceremonial use. The first one is the mace that has been carried at the front of all commencement ceremonies since.
Kulas explained the artistic ideas he incorporated into his design:
“The theme used for making the mace was like a drop of water falling into a body of water, its effects sending out ripples throughout the water. Likewise, a little learning affects everyone by sending out knowledge to all four corners of the Earth, hence the design. The globe: symbolizing the Earth. The rings: symbolizing a drop of knowledge ever spreading throughout the Earth. The four spikes: emphasizing the four corners of the Earth.”
The second mace used the same theme, but the globe was hollowed out to make it lighter by using recessed rings.
“Old Main,” 1958Ceremony for Undergraduate Degrees Friday, December
16 — 1 p.m.
College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines Maridee D. Shogren, Dean
Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition
Shondell Malanie De Velde Baltimore, MD Human Nutrition
Sydney E. St. Germain ** Grand Forks, ND Human Nutrition
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Amanda Baerlocher ** Bismarck, ND Nursing
Emma L. Bangert * Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Madison Blasl Bismarck, ND Nursing
Jenna Nicole Boushee * East Grand Forks, MN Nursing
Emma Rose Buethner West Fargo, ND Nursing
Nathan Peter Coldagelli ** Eveleth, MN Nursing
Heidi Jeannette Crawford Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Emma Rae Cullen Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Karin Elizabeth Dahl Drayton, ND Nursing
Ashley Elizabeth Davidson Dickinson, ND Nursing
Olivia Effertz * Minot, ND Nursing
Isabella D. Ettestad International Falls, MN Nursing
Elizabeth R. Falcon * Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Gracie Feist ** Minot, ND Nursing
Abigail A. Feltman Minto, ND Nursing
Vail Mesa Gibbs Glendive, MT Nursing
Brianna Nicole Hollenbeck Rosemount, MN Nursing
Kamryn Rae James * Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Lexy K. Kolling Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Charles Yee Kong Rochester Nursing
Mallory A. Kostelecky * Bismarck, ND Nursing
Emily A. Leaf * Round Lake, IL Nursing
Lauryn Patricia Leidholm Washburn, ND Nursing
Laura Elizabeth Lemay Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Samantha Lobb * Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Courtney Marshall Towner, ND Nursing
Ilea Rose May Zimmerman, MN Nursing
Sarah Rose Mayer *** Dickinson, ND Nursing
Mercedes P. Mckay * Souris, ND Nursing
Hannah Lynn Meyer * Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Ashley Anne Miller Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Grace Kathryn Miller Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Josie Alice Morrow ** Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Alexis Ostlie * Detroit Lakes, MN Nursing
Brittany Sue Philippi * East Grand Forks, MN Nursing
Tiana Maria Rausch Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Taylor D. Sagen * Walker, MN Nursing
Sophie June Schafer Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Tanna J. Schloesser Fargo, ND Nursing
Annie M. Schultz Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Camryn R. Smith Brooklyn Park, MN Nursing
Haley Swanson Fosston, MN Nursing
Katie Thompson * Reynolds, ND Nursing
Hannah R. Tucker
East Grand Forks, MN Nursing
Olivia Jane Ulvin * Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Braden Emily Vetter * Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Kaia Jo Wenstad * Williston, ND Nursing
Alissa Wilbur * Wayzata, MN Nursing
Haley Jordan Wolfe Grand Forks, ND Nursing
Bachelor of Science in Social Work
Samantha Lee Boldra Bern, KS Social Work
Kaitlyn Marie Cox Little Falls, MN Social Work
Kandyce Edwards Grand Forks, ND Social Work
Harley Fleming Grand Forks, ND Social Work
Kole Kaye Glass ** Bismarck, ND Social Work
Dominique Elise Haigh
Keewatin, MN Social Work
Isabelle Jane Hawkins Grand Forks, ND Social Work
Naudia Kimala Lewis ** Grand Forks, ND Social Work
Josee Locken Strathcona, MN Social Work
Kayla L. Luing Moorhead, MN Social Work
Amanda K. Morse ** Bismarck, ND Social Work
Jakob Nelson Sacramento, CA Social Work
Alison Marie Olson Fergus Falls, MN Social Work
Colette Maria Pauley ** Gatesville, TX Social Work
Landrey Breann Peterson Walhalla, ND Social Work
Jennifer Marie Sandberg Oslo, MN Social Work
Olivea Petal Sehrt ** Grand Forks, ND Social Work
Sage Hailey Stansell Sioux Falls, SD Social Work
Tasha Fay Steffens Wadena, MN Social Work
Paige Karlene Wedan Superior, WI Social Work
School of Medicine & Health
Joshua Wynne, Dean
Sciences
Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training
Laura Ann Hafenstein * Lake Mills, WI Athletic Training
Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science
Kaysi Bujniewicz Minot, ND Medical Laboratory Science
Cathy K. Hansen-Stahl Pierre, SD Medical Laboratory Science
College of Engineering & Mines Brian Tande, Dean
Tanner Jeffrey Ball
Bismarck, ND Computer Science
Riley N. Mateychuk Ramsey, MN Data Science
Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering
Rachelle Lynn Amundson ** Grand Forks, ND Chemical Engineering
Nikolas Ray Dirkson Billings, MT Chemical Engineering
Ariadne De Oliveira Loss Athol, MA Chemical Engineering
Lindsey G. Malina *** Lakeville, MN Chemical Engineering
Abbie Catherine Radermacher Battle Lake, MN Chemical Engineering
Gavin Romanick ** Grand Forks, ND
Chemical Engineering
Janel Marie Ruhlman North Branch, MI
Chemical Engineering
Dominick Van Ess Grand Forks, ND Chemical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
Laurence Evan Concors Lexington, KY Civil Engineering
Dennis Jason Donatelli *** San Antonio, TX Civil Engineering
Graham Wone Dougan Pasadena, MD Civil Engineering
Tanner N. Kaiser Fargo, ND Civil Engineering
Matthew Aaron McNeil Round Rock, TX Civil Engineering
Lucas John Morrison Colorado Springs, CO Civil Engineering
Johnathan Alexander Wesar Victoria, TX Civil Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Daniel Baurceanu Edina, MN Computer Science
Thomas Jay Good Devils Lake, ND Computer Science
Riley N. Mateychuk Ramsey, MN Computer Science
Marcus Vaughn-Jones Grand Forks, ND Computer Science
Zachary Allan Wenzel Warroad, MN Computer Science
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Siambou L. Camara Wilmington, NC Electrical Engineering Abdiaziz Mohamed St. Paul, MN Electrical Engineering
Scott Ronald Mooney Roseau, MN Electrical Engineering
Tony Chertong Moua Greenville, SC Electrical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Geology
Dylan J. Lavecchia Grand Forks, ND Geology
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Nathan James Burton ** Grand Forks, ND
Mechanical Engineering
Joshua John Sylvester Carlson Grand Rapids, MN Mechanical Engineering
Nicholas Joseph Ronald Holte Thompson, ND Mechanical Engineering
Nathan J. Juven ** Moorhead, MN Mechanical Engineering
Caitlyn Elizabeth Ockwig
Inver Grove Heights, MN Mechanical Engineering
Shawn Ruggiero Grand Forks, ND Mechanical Engineering
Allie Jean Struble Jamestown, ND Mechanical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering
Kerregyn Lynnea Atkinson Big Lake, MN Petroleum Engineering
Colton D. Charlton Cadiz, OH Petroleum Engineering
Ngoma Di Nzau Matona Gilchrist * Greenville, SC Petroleum Engineering
Angela M. Koliba Conroe, TX Petroleum Engineering
Quinn B. Kramer Denver, CO Petroleum Engineering
Nathan G. Mendez Windsor, WI Petroleum Engineering
* Denotes cum laude
** Denotes magna cum laude
*** Denotes summa cum laude See description on page 14
College of Arts & Sciences Brad
Rundquist, Dean
Nolan Jon Anderson Minneapolis, MN Communication
Mary Anne Ayson Honolulu, HI Social Science
Isaac Laurence Bargamian Jameston, ND Spanish
Sean Patrick Bates ** Grand Forks, ND History
Madison Paige Beal *** Duluth, MN Communication
Joni Lynnee Becker Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Bryce Quinton Beckner Ellicott City, MD Communication
Amanda Corinne Logan Benjamin * Alexandria, VA Psychology
Jayda Boyd ** Grand Forks, ND Communication
Diana Emily Breitwieser Grand Forks, ND Spanish
Abby Bye *** Maple Grove, MN Social Science
Ryan William Davis Shakopee, MN Communication
Anna S. Dubanoski Apple Valley, MN Environmental Studies
Abby Lorraine Eken *** Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Seth Ryan Foster Grand Forks, ND German
Brianna Rose Fuchs Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Austin Nitkin Garfield Parkland, FL Psychology
Jennifer L. Greer Grand Forks, ND Social Science
Ireland Hanson *** Grand Forks, ND Women and Gender Studies
Gabriel Lyle Allen Hartje Bathgate, ND Sociology
Sarah E. Haust ** Grand Forks, ND Communication
Ainsley Holien *** Rice, MN Psychology
Michaela Honl Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Taylor Grace House * Grand Forks, ND Philosophy & Religious Studies: Philosophy
Dustyn Allen Huber * Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Madelyn G. Insley St. Cloud, MN Communication
Mattea June Johnson Kindred, ND Psychology
Willow Brooke Johnson Carrington, ND French
Daniel Eunjoon Jung * Grand Forks, ND Theatre Arts
Simranpreet Kaur * Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Adelin Francis Kern Buffalo, MN Psychology
Cody L. Knowlen Bismarck, ND Communication
Olivia J. Lacher *** Grand Forks, ND Visual Arts
Ashley Mae Lang East Grand Forks, MN Communication
Taylor Lange ** Waconia, MN Spanish
Jayden Alexander Laxdal ** Cavalier, ND Sociology
Madison Livingston ** Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Amanda Lunardini Hickory Corners, MI Psychology
Noel Marie Mara ** Farmington, MN Psychology
Troy James Mickelson Olympia, WA Psychology
Jose Guadalupe Molina Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Deaja R. Muñoz Hutchinson, MN Psychology
Delaney Otto *** Chaffee, ND Communication
Jona Lopez Pedersen *** Grand Forks, ND English
Benjamin Jacob Pfeiffer ** Grand Forks, ND Music
Adam Polanka Greensburg, IN Classical Studies
Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Fine Arts
Alyssa Rios * Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Heather Lindsay Rizzo ** Front Royal, VA Psychology
Anne Elizabeth Roerig Fargo, ND Psychology
Sydney M. Rosenau * Warroad, MN English
Dietrich Lee Schlichtmann Hillsboro, ND Honors Program
Christopher J. Siegel La Crosse, WI Communication
Hallee Spidahl Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Cameron Squire Grand Forks, ND Sociology
Mackinney Lee Supola ** Grand Forks, ND Communication RJ Tare Bismarck, ND English
Philosophy & Religious Studies: Philosophy
Gina Tietz *** Grand Forks, ND English Music
Bennett James Van Pelt Plymouth, MN Communication
Kamre Margarethe Vanecek Maple Plain, MN Psychology
Donald T. Ventrelli St. Paul, MN Communication
Zachary Allan Wenzel Warroad, MN Honors Program
Zachary John Wicklund Mendota Heights, MN Social Science
Richard H. Wilcox ** Grand Forks, ND Communication History
Alexis Marie Wohl * West Fargo, ND History German
Demetria Jade Slyt Grand Forks, ND Graphic Design
Alexa Julene Steen *** Grand Forks, ND Graphic Design
Bachelor of General Studies
Juan Avalos
Grand Forks, ND General Studies
Erin Elizabeth Birdsey Lubbock, TX General Studies
Gretchen Reid Cone Columbia, MO General Studies
Phillip Ray Gallimore Jamestown, NC General Studies
Jolene Ranzie Ginther Fargo, ND General Studies
Kyle Gorze Fargo, ND General Studies
Annah Greenmyer *** Stirum, ND General Studies
Lukas Erik Hagen Hortonville, WI General Studies
Andrew James Hardison Westcliffe, CO General Studies
Jonathan Anun Khaopraseuth Fargo, ND General Studies
Grace Kleinvachter East Grand Forks, MN General Studies
Farrah W. Lindgren Grand Forks, ND General Studies
Alexander Tienhow Lo Grand Forks, ND General Studies
Monicah N. Nyakoe Fargo, ND General Studies
Jade Marie Olschlager * Grand Forks, ND General Studies
Douglas Purcell Fargo, ND General Studies
Sara Margaret Seaman San Diego, CA General Studies
Zulma Guadalupe Troy Grand Forks, ND General Studies
Bachelor of General Studies, continued
Murphy Joseph Walker
Grand Forks, ND General Studies
Sonya Dee Weinberger Breien, ND General Studies
Bachelor of Music
Julia Mavis Fischer ** West Fargo, ND Music Education
Bachelor of Science
Faith Christel Aasen ** Grandin, ND Psychology
Malika Achingale Barbie Odera *** Brooklyn Park, MN Psychology
Kaleb Arthur Card *** Fargo, ND Psychology
Benjaman A. Christian ** Grand Forks, ND Biology / Professional Health
Gracyn Emily Cole ** Park River, ND Environmental Studies
Madison Anne Connors *** West Fargo, ND Psychology
Andrew Fisel ** Belle Plaine, MN Forensic Science
Aamna Khalid Flemmer Bismarck, ND Environmental Studies
Jacob Harms Thompson, ND Environmental Studies
Mark Joseph Hastings *** Hillsboro, ND Biology / Professional Health Thomas P. Helmoski Grand Forks, ND Health Studies
Htet Kyi Phyu Hnin * Minot, ND Biology / Professional Health Psychology
Sariyah Hossain *** West Fargo, ND Biology / Professional Health
Austin Charles Jenniges Grand Forks, ND Geography
Ethan Mykal Jordan ** New Prague, MN Geography
Avery K. Jorgenson Woodbury, MN Biology
College of Arts & Sciences
Taylor M. Keplin
Belcourt, ND Health Studies
Sadey Koch *** Grand Forks, ND Environmental Studies
Taylor Lange ** Waconia, MN Biology / Professional Health
Parker Jane Larson Minot, ND Forensic Science
Kaitlyn Heidi Loven Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Noel Marie Mara ** Farmington, MN Forensic Science
Molly McEnroe
Grand Forks, ND Biology / Professional Health
Julissa Anai Miller
Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Mikayla Sherry Moszer Bismarck, ND Psychology
Josiah A. Negron Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Jennifer Lynn Parent ** Forest Lake, MN Mathematics
Logan E. Pazdernik ** Waubun, MN Biology / Professional Health
Cade M. Peterson ** Allenton, WI Mathematics
Madison Ann Phillips-Bischoff Drayton, ND Psychology
Shainee Jo Price ** Moorhead, MN Psychology
Lauren Prowse Grand Forks, ND Biology / Professional Health
Alexis Catherine Rehovsky Alexandria, MN Psychology
Henry David Rott Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Keaton Kelly Rustad *** Kindred, ND Biology / Professional Health
Linnya M. Sanders West Fargo, ND Psychology
Jack Evan Schaefer Grand Forks, ND Biology
Tarin Janean Skinner Brainerd, MN Health Studies
Nicholas J. Stenehjem Grand Forks, ND Biology / Professional Health
Tatjana Svjetlanovic *** Bismarck, ND Psychology
Brenden J. Swanson * Grand Forks, ND Biology / Professional Health
Zachary Allan Wenzel Warroad, MN Chemistry
Caden Benjamin White *** Sun Prairie, WI Biology / Professional Health
Adam James Zavalney *** Grand Forks, ND Psychology
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies
Faith Christel Aasen ** Grandin, ND Criminal Justice Studies
Malika Achingale Barbie Odera *** Brooklyn Park, MN Criminal Justice Studies
Abby Bye *** Maple Grove, MN Criminal Justice Studies
Christopher Andrew Cornette Grand Forks, ND Criminal Justice Studies
June Margaret Foltz ** Grand Forks, ND Criminal Justice Studies
Samuel-Salih Kaitel Fort Grand Forks, ND Criminal Justice Studies
Gabriel Lyle Allen Hartje Bathgate, ND Criminal Justice Studies
Ian Mark Helgeson Park River, ND Criminal Justice Studies
Jayden Alexander Laxdal ** Cavalier, ND Criminal Justice Studies
Natalie Leah LeBlanc Granite Falls, MN Criminal Justice Studies
Adam J. Loeffler ** Blaine, MN Criminal Justice Studies
Deaja R. Muñoz Hutchinson, MN Criminal Justice Studies
Cameron Squire Grand Forks, ND Criminal Justice Studies
Marissa D. Watling Grand Forks, ND Criminal Justice Studies
Sara Ann Ziegler Mandan, ND Criminal Justice Studies
Bachelor of Science in Fisheries & Wildlife Biology
Benjamin J. Hagen
Sterling Heights, MI
Fisheries & Wildlife Biology
Charles Wayne McDunn
Audubon, MN Fisheries & Wildlife Biology
Jona Lopez Pedersen *** Grand Forks, ND Fisheries & Wildlife Biology
Meagan Margaret Powers Fergus Falls, MN Fisheries & Wildlife Biology
* Denotes cum laude
** Denotes magna cum laude
*** Denotes summa cum laude See description on page 14
Ceremony for Undergraduate Degrees Friday, December 16 — 4 p.m.
College of Education & Human Development Cindy Juntunen, Dean
Tate Justin Maesse
Ulen, MN
Bachelor of Science in Education Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
Isaac Laurence Bargamian
Jamestown, ND Secondary Education
Hope S. Burdolski ** Bismarck, ND Science
Stephanie Ann Doll
Casselton, ND Elementary Education
Cameron Jade Marie Easton Bismarck, ND Elementary Education
Hannah Kay Freese
Grand Forks, ND
Composite Social Studies Education
Emily Rae Glass *** Bismarck, ND Elementary Education
McKinzie Grace Halverson *** Bagley, MN Elementary Education
Hannah Houle Bismarck, ND Secondary Education
Gretchen E. Ivers *** Thompson, ND Elementary Education
Cade Ray Jepson ** Hitterdal, MN Elementary Education
Avery K. Jorgenson Woodbury, MN Secondary Education Michael Lee Kraft ** Munich, ND
Composite Social Studies Education
Elementary Education
Mikayla Lynn May
Grand Forks, ND
Composite Social Studies Education
Jennifer Lynn Parent ** Forest Lake, MN
Secondary Education
Grace Kathryn Poolman
Grand Forks, ND Elementary Education
Ryan J. Powers Brainerd, MN
Composite Social Studies Education
Brooke Renea Rieger
Grand Forks, ND Elementary Education
Sydney M. Rosenau * Warroad, MN Secondary Education
Jacob Leroy Siedschlag **
Grand Forks, ND Elementary Education
Hana G. Toward *
Bemidji, MN Elementary Education
Madeline Renee Treuer *
Grand Forks, ND Elementary Education
Sophia Grace Turner * Grand Forks, ND Elementary Education
Chloe Vonasek ** East Grand Forks, MN Science
Mason J. Wang * Warren, MN
Composite Social Studies Education
Mady Berger ** Casselton, ND Kinesiology
Christopher James Evenson * Valders, WI Kinesiology
Laura Ann Hafenstein * Lake Mills, WI Kinesiology
Kianna Jean Novacek *** Greenbush, MN Kinesiology
Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education
Houefa Dossou Gouchola Raleigh, NC Public Health Education
Miranda Rose Olson Grand Forks, ND Public Health Education
Erin Leigh Sylvester Ottumwa, IA Public Health Education
Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation & Human Services
Andrew J. Ayers
Dennison, MN Rehabilitation & Human Services
Christopher Justin Hanson West Fargo, ND Rehabilitation & Human Services
Hyland P. Heinz
Grand Forks, ND Rehabilitation & Human Services
Sydney Lynn Johnson * Elk River, MN Rehabilitation & Human Services
Alexis Paige Lehmann *** Devils Lake, ND Rehabilitation & Human Services
Mohamed D. Mohamed East Grand Forks, MN Rehabilitation & Human Services
Shainee Jo Price ** Moorhead, MN Rehabilitation & Human Services
Alexis Smith ** Fargo, ND Rehabilitation & Human Services
Bachelor of Accountancy
Diana Emily Breitwieser
Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Kendra Diana Coborn ** Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Madelyn R. Frost * East Grand Forks, MN Accountancy
Madison Michelle Gilbertson ** Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Sara May Goodoien * Gilby, ND Accountancy
McKenna Breanne Gross Sartell, MN Accountancy
Nathan Thomas Herboth Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Tyler Michael Hoffarth Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Ross Jirik *** Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Willow Brooke Johnson Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Marah J. Schatz St. Joseph, MN Accountancy
Kristen Marie Zettler Grand Forks, ND Accountancy
Nathan Zola ** Lino Lakes, MN Accountancy
Bachelor of Arts
Gavin Patrick Justice * Grand Forks, ND Economics
Ian J. Kleven Brooklyn Park, MN Economics
Brandon J. Schaff * East Grand Forks, MN Economics
Thomas George Zietkiewicz Grand Forks AFB, ND Economics
Nistler College of Business & Public Administration
Amy Henley, Dean
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Ireland Hanson ***
Grand Forks, ND Political Science
Terra Davidia Lindquist ** Minot, ND Political Science
Kale Adam Spawn Stroup Grand Forks, ND Political Science
Kaitlyn Rae Van Beek East Grand Forks, MN Political Science
Daniel Steven Walsh Grand Forks, ND Political Science
Maxwell Joseph Wessley Fargo, ND Political Science
Sara Ann Ziegler Mandan, ND Political Science
Bachelor of Business Administration
Mohammed Khalid D. Aldhuwayhi **
Grand Forks, ND Aviation Management
Mojahid Ahmed S. Alghamdi ** Grand Forks, ND Aviation Management
Turki Motab A. Alharbi ***
Grand Forks, ND Aviation Management
Erik James Allen
Grand Forks, ND Aviation Management
John Maguire Armstrong Bismarck, ND Marketing
Musharrat Faiza Ashraf ***
Grand Forks, ND Aviation Management
Brianna C. Bang Bemidji, MN Marketing
Saleh Abdullah S. Basalem ***
Grand Forks, ND Aviation Management
Jishnu Basu Grand Forks, ND Aviation Management
Isaiah D. Bauer Fertile, MN Marketing
Quinn Robert Bauer Grand Forks, ND Management Managerial Finance & Accounting
Ethan Patrick Berg ***
Rosemount, MN Aviation Management
Arjun Bhattal San Mateo, CA Aviation Management
Ethan Patrick Borgen Grand Forks, ND Marketing
Austin Tyler Braun * Grand Forks, ND Entrepreneurship Management
Diana Emily Breitwieser Grand Forks, ND Finance
Nichols Edward Loveland Brosnan Prior Lake, MN Finance
Morgan Lynn Bryan Ham Lake, MN Managerial Finance & Accounting Management
Jack A. Carlson Grand Forks, ND Aviation Management
Bennett A. Carter *** Inkster, ND Entrepreneurship
Edward Michael Clancey * Kailua, HI Aviation Management
Kendra Diana Coborn **
Grand Forks, ND Management
Thomas DeMuse Eagan, MN Marketing
Will Andrew Eagleson Grand Forks, ND Managerial Finance & Accounting
Will T. Ellingson Champlin, MN Management
Gabrielle G. Elliott Britt, MN Finance
Reed Erickson Grand Forks, ND Marketing
Blake C. Eyer *** Grand Forks, ND Management
Sara May Goodoien * Gilby, ND Information Systems
Brandon Curtis Hamers Williston, ND Management
Riley Michael Hasiuk Thief River Falls, MN Management
Ben David Hillesland Grand Forks, ND Information Systems
Jaedon Anthony Hinds *
Grand Forks, ND
Aviation Management
Andrea Jansson *** Grand Forks, ND Marketing Management
Camryn M. Johnson Lakeville, MN Marketing
Dallas W. Kane Bovey, MN Management
Steven Christopher Keech * Two Harbors, MN Finance
Joshua Michael Keller Grand Forks, ND Management
Brooke M. Kimmes *** Cannon Falls, MN Entrepreneurship
Kathrin Joanne Kirmeier St. Paul, MN Marketing
Alexander J. Koritz Grand Forks, ND Business Economics
Matt Koshiol Grand Forks, ND Marketing
Jonathan G. Kranz Lake Elmo, MN Management
Jacob Krosniak Glenview, IL Aviation Management
Devon Krzanowski Oakfield, WI Management
Kaden Robert Kueneman ** Fargo, ND Finance
Spencer D. Kuhlman Grand Forks, ND Entrepreneurship
Zachary Larson Edinburg, ND Management
Matthew Anthony Lewis Mount Zion, IL Aviation Management
Adamari Elizabeth Lopez ** Minto, ND Marketing
Mikayla Ann McDonald Grand Forks, ND Marketing
Nicholas Ian Moe Grand Forks, ND Management
* Denotes cum laude
** Denotes magna cum laude
*** Denotes summa cum laude See description on page 14
Bachelor of Business Administration
, continued
Chayz Isaiah Nelson
Fertile, MN Finance
Mackenzie Lee Nicklason Grand Forks, ND Marketing
Carter G. Novak Park Rapids, MN Management
Joshua D. Odegard *** Grand Forks, ND Managerial Finance & Accounting
Kameri Rose Olson Hazen, ND
Human Resource Management Marketing
Kylie Parson Orr, MN Marketing
William Michael Patton ** Hastings, MN Airport Management
Katia Milan Peters ** Grand Forks, ND Aviation Management
Nistler College of Business & Public Administration
Marissa M. Peters ***
West Fargo, ND Marketing Management
Julia Leigh Pluta Bristow, VA Marketing
Emma Elizabeth Richards Fargo, ND Management
Joseph Jay Roehrich Jamestown, ND Management
Caleb Jacob Rosenberg * Oshkosh, WI Airport Management
Hayden Rostvet * Harwood, ND Marketing
Marah J. Schatz St. Joseph, MN Managerial Finance & Accounting
Dietrich Lee Schlichtmann Hillsboro, ND Entrepreneurship
Madison R. Schmitz Fargo, ND Marketing
Thomas Frank Schuster ** Macomb, MI Operations & Supply Chain
Connor Senkyr
Clearwater, MN Marketing
Peyton Elisabeth Sewell
Grand Forks, ND Management Marketing
Stoker K. Short Grand Forks, ND Marketing
Brady Christian Stevens * Grand Forks, ND Finance
Tanner Stoddart Bismarck, ND Marketing
Kale Adam Spawn Stroup Grand Forks, ND Marketing
Tanner L. Thorsness Bismarck, ND Marketing
Nathan A. Torkelson Maple Grove, MN Finance
Matty Urbaniak ** Argyle, MN Management Marketing
Kendall N. Wahouske Crookston, MN Information Systems
Parker Wakefield
Edina, MN
Aviation Management
Quinn Michael Weiner Worcester, MA Finance Marketing
Robert Gregory Whiting Grand Forks, ND Finance
Duncan M. Wiest Elk River, MN Marketing
Taylor Robert Winkler Grand Forks, ND Information Systems
Maria Zentner Warroad, MN Human Resource Management
Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs
Hayden Aaron Diaz Ramsey, MN Public Affairs
Terra Davidia Lindquist ** Minot, ND Public Affairs
John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences
Robert Kraus, Dean
Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics
Nicholas Benjamin Ackerman *
Monticello, MN
Air Traffic Management
Aseel Salem M. Albishri ***
Grand Forks, ND
Air Traffic Management
Mutlaq Alqahtani ***
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Musharrat Faiza Ashraf ***
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Matthew J. Bagot **
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Sean Patrick Bates **
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Max Theodore Baumgarten ** New River, AZ
Commercial Aviation
Ian J. Bender *
Apple Valley, MN
Commercial Aviation
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Cassandra L. Bills
Rosemount, MN
Commercial Aviation
Jedediah Jacob Bloms *
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Michael Austin Braun ***
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Cooper Buchanan **
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
John David Byrd
Grand Forks, ND
Aviation Studies
Aviation Safety and Operations
Brandon James Cooksey
Grand Forks, ND
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Brooke M. Dalton *
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Vander Nathaniel Dean *
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Adam M. Drage
Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation
Chasity Jordyn Easterwood **
Caledonia, MS Commercial Aviation
Blake C. Eyer ***
Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation
Ryan William Felipa **
Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation
Jie Gao **
Grand Forks, ND
Air Traffic Management
Cephas Sundae Garlo
Moorhead, MN
Aviation Studies
Seth Warren Germundson **
Mayville, ND
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Commercial Aviation
Mackenzie John Doane Gilliland
South Jordan, UT
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Claire Elaina Grannes ***
Eagan, MN
Commercial Aviation
Joseph M. Grasseschi
Great Falls, MT
Commercial Aviation
Thomas J. Hamlin
Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation Bailey J. Harris
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Alex Richard Hastings **
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Mace Robert Henry **
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Satsuki Hiraishi ***
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Jian Hau Hsu
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
John Henry James **
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences
Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics,
Sophia E. Jensen *
Lakeville, MN
Commercial Aviation
Harley Jiang ***
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Logan R. Johnson ** Appleton, WI Commercial Aviation
Ryuki Kawamoto
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
continued
Joseph Mangin *
Gettysburg, SD
Commercial Aviation
Andrew Seiya Mason
Grand Forks, ND
Aviation Safety & Operations
Mason W. Mauk *
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Gaines McCollum *
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Mary N. McCormick
Grand Forks, ND
Air Traffic Management
Charles T. Meyer *
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Pleurat Rama ***
East Meadow, NY Commercial Aviation Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Jennifer Lee Ramirez * Clarksville, TN Aviation Studies Aviation Safety and Operations
Derek Michael Rasmussen * Grand Forks, ND Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Jacob W. Rick Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation
Jeffrey Michael Spaeth **
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Matthew Edward Sultany * Otsego, MN
Commercial Aviation
Kendal Michelle Swanson ** Red Wing, MN
Commercial Aviation
Sophia Kae Van Horn **
Grand Forks, ND Air Traffic Management
Roland Andrew Wenzel * Grand Forks, ND
John Andrew Kerkaert * Marshall, MN
Commercial Aviation
Sung Woo Kim
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Brooke M. Kimmes ***
Cannon Falls, MN
Air Traffic Management
Benjamin J. Kolbow
Shoreview, MN
Commercial Aviation
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Alex James Krause ** Sturgeon Bay, WI
Commercial Aviation
Austin Paul Krause ***
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Jack A. Kuiper ** Delavan, WI
Commercial Aviation
Joshua John Lelwica * Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Benjiman Reed Loken * Duluth, MN
Commercial Aviation Matthew Thomas Lusardi Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Zachary Robert Miller ***
Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation
Trayton J. Molland
West Fargo, ND
Commercial Aviation Morgan I. Myers
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Jack William O’Neil
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Wilfredo J. Ortiz *
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation William Alexander Perekslis
Millerton, NY
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Katia Milan Peters **
Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation Noah Michael Peterson ** La Crescent, MN
Commercial Aviation Chenyuan Qi Concord, NC
Commericial Aviation
Daniel Logan Raabe * Grand Forks, ND
Commericial Aviation
Christopher W. Rohlf * Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation
Brayden Phillip Rothwell Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation
Daniel J. Russell Burnsville, MN Commericial Aviation
Robert Thomas Searles * Reno, NV Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Benjamin Shavers Houston, TX Aviation Studies
Cody Shereck * Devils Lake, ND Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations
Kyohei Shimizu * Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation
Jackson T. Smith * Grand Forks, ND Air Traffic Management
John Michael Smith *** Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation
Alexander Lee Snader * Victoria, MN Commercial Aviation
Candidates for Commission
Commercial Aviation Air Traffic Management
Danya Mikhail Werth *** Grand Forks, ND
Commercial Aviation
Maxwell David White * Winnipeg, MB
Commercial Aviation
Joshua Tyler Wilcox Mesa, AZ
Commercial Aviation Bailey Wildung Mesa, AZ
Commercial Aviation
Nathan Dennis Wurst * Chaska, MN
Commercial Aviation
Jinki Timothy Yeo Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation Yusuke Yokoe ** Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation Jiho Yun ** Grand Forks, ND Commercial Aviation
Nathan James Burton Pilot
Mallory A. Kostelecky
Army National Guard/Adjutant General
Taylor D. Sagen
Active Duty/Nurse Corps
Tatjana Svjetlanovic Army National Guard/Signal
* Denotes cum laude
** Denotes magna cum laude
*** Denotes summa cum laude See description on page 14
Lt. Col. Jason Evans, Professor of Aerospace Studies
Lt. Col. Jason Mathre, Professor of Military Science Commission as Second Lieutenant United States Air Force
Commission as Second Lieutenant United States Army
UND History
With help from more than 150,000 proud alumni, UND’s traditions have endured for more than a century. Our history is colorful and diverse. From educators to political leaders and astronauts, our alumni credit UND for their successes. Here are some facts:
• UND was founded in 1883 by the Dakota Territorial Assembly — six years before North Dakota became a state.
• The cornerstone for Old Main — UND’s first building and where the Eternal Flame in the Old Main Memorial Plaza now stands — was laid in the fall of 1883.
• As part of its evolution into a full-fledged, multi-purpose University, UND added research and the instruction of graduate students (the first master’s degree was awarded in 1895) before the end of the 19th century.
• Four faculty members met the 11 students who entered the University on opening day, September 8, 1884.
• Three U.S. Presidents have visited campus: Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan.
• The first class of eight students graduated on June 13, 1889.
• Unlike most state institutions of higher education west of the Mississippi, UND did not begin as an agricultural school or as a teachers college. It was organized initially as a College of Arts & Sciences, with a Normal School for the education of teachers.
Presidents of the University
The First Commencement
The following is excerpted from University of the Northern Plains, the history of the University of North Dakota written by Louis G. Geiger and published in 1958 as part of the University’s 75th anniversary celebration.
A major milestone in student affairs, as well as in the University’s history, was the graduation of the first college class in 1889. A faculty committee was appointed in February to plan the exercises. In April the student body met and chose the school colors, the pink and green of the prairie rose, “suggestive of our green prairies and rosy prospects.” On June 13, a cool, fair day, the ceremony began at ten o’clock in the University assembly hall, which had been decorated with flags and flowers and a large “89” centerpiece. A capacity crowd of students and spectators (perhaps as many as 250) was on hand as the graduates — “the ladies … dressed in white” and “the gentlemen … neatly attired” — marched to their places on the stage to the accompaniment of music by [W. W.] Hall’s Cadet Band. Special guests were the Regents, H. M. Mellette, governor of the Territory, several other territorial officials [North Dakota did not attain statehood until November 2, 1889], and Nehemiah Ordway, who as governor had signed the organic act of the University. [President Homer B.] Sprague presided and introduced the speakers. Mellette observed that it was a “Red River letter day.” Ordway spoke with pride and feeling on the University’s founding. One of the Regents relieved the occasion with a touch of unconscious humor when he explained: “As to the faculty we have done the best we could with the money at hand.” Following the official commemoration of the occasion, the main part of the program began; there were essays and orations presented by each of the eight graduates, six from the college and two from the four-year normal course; Frances M. Allen (B.A.), Clinton S. DeGroat (B.S.), Ben E. Ingwaldson (B.S.), Cora Smith (B.S.), Marie Teel (B.S.), May Travis (B.A.), and Genevieve Arnold
The University of North Dakota graduated its first class on June 13, 1889. Seated: Frances M. Allen, B.A.; May Travis, B.A.; Genevieve Arnold, Normal Certificate; and Marie Teel, B.S. Standing: Irene Mares, Normal Certificate; Clinton S. DeGroat, B.S.; Cora Smith, B.S., and Ben E. Ingwaldson, B.S.
and Irene Mares (normal certificates). The orations, on current as well as literary and moral subjects, were printed in full in the Grand Forks newspapers.
Three of the college graduates were from Grand Forks; none had come from farther than Hillsboro. Not one had been born in North Dakota; Ben Ingwaldson had been born in Norway. In the class of 1890, of seven college graduates, four were from Grand Forks, three were women, and six took the science degree. A considerable proportion of the early graduates entered medicine, law, or teaching. Cora Smith, a member of the first class, took a degree in medicine at Boston University; Mary Crans of the second class completed the course in dentistry at the University of Michigan. Ben Ingwaldson went on to the University of Minnesota law school. North Dakota’s first appointee to West Point, Joseph Travis, graduated in the class of 1890.
The Main Building and Ladies’ Hall (later Davis Hall)Congratulations and Best Wishes
The University of North Dakota is proud to recognize the accomplishments of its graduates and to extend best wishes to them, their families and loved ones.
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