Commencement Exercises - May 2, 2024
Logan Campus College Convocations - May 2-3, 2024
Statewide Campuses Graduation Ceremonies - April 18-27, 2024
Utah State University is a premier land- and space-grant institution committed to excellence, access, and inclusion. We empower all people to lead successful lives of involvement, innovation, and impact, and we champion exceptional education, research and discovery, and community contribution.
Dear Esteemed Graduates,
On this extraordinary day, I extend my warmest congratulations to you, the graduating class of 2024, from Utah State University. As we gather to celebrate your achievements, I am deeply honored to address you for the first time as the President of our esteemed institution.
Your journey to this moment has been marked by dedication, resilience, and a profound commitment to excellence whether you pursued your studies online, on campus, or across our beautiful state. Each of you has played an integral role in advancing our university's mission as a public service institution.
As we look ahead to the future, I am filled with optimism and confidence in your ability to make a meaningful impact in the world. Armed with the knowledge, skills, and values instilled by your education at USU, you are well-equipped to address the challenges of our time with integrity and compassion.
As you embark on the next chapter of your journey, I urge you to embrace the opportunities that come your way and to continue striving for excellence in all that you do. Remember that you are not just graduates of Utah State, but ambassadors of change and champions of the greater good.
Wherever your paths may lead, may you continue to embody the spirit of service and innovation that defines our university.
Congratulations, Class of 2024! Your achievements are a testament to your hard work and determination, and I am honored to celebrate this momentous occasion with you.
With warm regards,
Dr. Elizabeth R. Cantwell President, Utah State University
PROCESSIONAL
WELCOME
Kristian Olsen
Senior Associate Vice President, USU Blanding
PRESENTATION OF THE COLORS
Blanding City Police
NATIONAL ANTHEM
Nadia Armajo USU Student
REMARKS & LAND GRANT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Kristian Olsen
Senior Associate Vice President, USU Blanding
STUDENT ASSOCIATION GREETING
Riana James
USUSA Vice President, USU Blanding
STUDENT SPEAKER
Tylan Dee
ADDRESS TO GRADUATES
Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren First Lady of the Navajo Nation
CONFERRING OF DEGREES
Dr. Elizabeth R. Cantwell President, USU
PRESENTATION OF DIPLOMAS
Jim Dandy
Program Coordinator, USU Blanding
GREETING TO GRADUATES
Matthew White
Vice President of Advancement & President of the USU Foundation
RECESSIONAL
FIRST LADY OF THE NAVAJO NATION Commencement Speaker
First Lady Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren is a former Arizona State Representative who, during her tenure, was the youngest lawmaker in the state. First Lady Blackwater-Nygren graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Stanford University and a Juris Doctor from Arizona State University.
First Lady Blackwater-Nygren grew up in Red Mesa, AZ, and maintains a home there with her husband, President Buu Nygren. Together, First Lady BlackwaterNygren and President Nygren have two children.
In 2017, Blackwater-Nygren attained a Bachelor of Science in Technology, Science, and Society with a focus on sustainability and the environment, and a minor in Native American studies. In 2020, Blackwater-Nygren earned a law degree, including an Indian Law certificate, from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University. During her time as a law student, Blackwater-Nygren completed internships with Navajo Nation Legislative Branch and Navajo Nation Supreme Court.
Tylan Dee is originally from Monument Valley, Utah. He is Tódích’íí’nii (Bitter Water clan), born for Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge clan), his maternal grandfather is of Tł'ízí lání (Many Goats clan) and his paternal grandfather is of Bit'ahnii (Folded Arms People clan). He graduated with honors from the College of Eastern Utah with an Associate of Science in general studies and received his Bachelor of Science in integrated studies from Utah State University. He will start a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration at the University of Utah this upcoming fall semester.
Tylan has been awarded the 2024 USU Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences Master’s Scholar of the Year award. He currently works for USU Blanding as an academic advisor and is passionate about his career. His focus is helping our youth and finding a student’s full potential beyond their expectations. Tylan enjoys online gaming, attending drag races, working on vehicles, powerlifting, and taking random drives.
Scan the above QR code for a full digital Commencement program.