MSUM Alumni Family Grows By 430

It’s an exciting day for the dragon family.

For some MSUM students, getting dressed on Thursday morning included extra layers.

But it’s not for the cold temperatures.

Instead, a new chapter in their life.

“We are so proud of what they accomplished here, but we’re even more proud of what they will accomplish once they leave MSUM,” said MSUM President Anne Blackhurst.

Students sit in their caps and gowns as the feeling is sinking in that they’ll walk out with a diploma.

“Just having that degree saying I’ve worked really hard for the past four years, and hopefully I’ll be a teacher somewhere here in the state here pretty soon,” said Brandon Matzke, graduating with a bachelor of science in elementary inclusive education.

Brandon is the first to graduate from his family. He has people joining the ceremony from all over the state.

“It isn’t just the excitement for our graduates, it’s the excitement of their families and what that means for them,” said Dr. Blackhurst.

Although some parts of the journey were hard, it will be one to remember.

“I’ve met a lot of good people, a lot of teachers, professors, just the memories I have of all the late nights and long papers, it’s been great,” said Matzke.

Many students said that answering questions about after graduation can be hard, however they were able to tell KVRR how they will continue celebrating after the ceremony.

“I have some of my family here so we’ll be going out to dinner and celebrating,” said Tia Marthaler.

“I think I’m going to go to red lobster, because I’m feeling kind of fancy,” said Megan Davis.

“I think we are going to go out to dinner and party the night away,” said Matzke.

In total, 430 students graduated.

In the spring there is usually more than one ceremony because of the larger number of students.