NE North Dakota News

Minot State University will celebrate its 109th Commencement Exercises on Friday, May 10. This event continues a tradition that began with the university's first graduating class in 1914.

"Commencement Exercises each spring represent a wonderful day when our entire MSU community gathers to honor our students and celebrate with their family and friends," said Minot State President Dr. Steven Shirley. "MSU has a wonderful new class of graduates in 2024, and we are certainly excited to recognize their accomplishments on May 10."

The day's events will start with a Hooding Ceremony for master's degree recipients at 8 a.m. in Ann Nicole Nelson Hall, followed by the Spring Commencement Ceremony at 10 a.m. at the Minot State Dome.

For those unable to attend, both ceremonies will be broadcast via the Minot State YouTube channel.

Guest speakers include Brenda K. Foster ’84/’92, Chairman, President, and CEO of First Western Bank & Trust; Lori Nehlsen ’21, a current Master of Education student; and Olivia Reiser, an undergraduate majoring in exercise science and rehabilitation.

Foster will deliver the keynote address. She graduated from MSU with an associate degree in legal secretarial studies in 1984 and later earned her Bachelor of Science degree in accounting with a concentration in banking and finance in 1992. Foster has been with First Western Bank & Trust since 1981 and serves on various boards including the MSU Board of Regents.

"An important tradition each year is the speakers sharing their inspirational messages during the Commencement ceremony," Shirley said. "Lori and Olivia are terrific students representing our graduate and undergraduate students, and two-time graduate Brenda Foster has deep ties to MSU, is a community leader, and someone who I know will deliver an impactful message to our Class of 2024."

Minot State will provide additional information about the ceremony on its special graduation homepage. Local hotels offer discounts for attendees under the Minot State Family and Friends program.

Minot State University is committed to excellence through education, scholarship, community engagement, rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, public service commitment, and vibrant campus life.