Many students stepped across the stage to celebrate their graduations at both the University of Montana and Montana State University as a chapter of collegiate hard work and dedication closes.
Graduating students took the stage at MSU’s Brick Breeden Fieldhouse to receive their diplomas.
The Fall 2018 commencement ceremony recognized MSU’s colleges of Agriculture, Arts and Architecture, Education, Health and Human Development, Letters and Science, and Nursing as well as the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering, the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship, and Gallatin College.
“It is a new beginning for them. It is the last step in one process in transition into the wonderful world where they can take the skills that they have learned and really contribute,” said MSU Professor of Education Leadership Bill Ruff.
There were more than 800 undergraduate degrees and nearly 300 master’s degrees awarded.
Parents and other family members packed into the University Center Ballroom at the University of Montana for a ceremony that provided those who would not have the opportunity to participate in the spring ceremony to still walk across the stage.
Senator John Tester and Attorney General Tim Fox both spoke at the first-ever UM fall commencement with each recalling their own experiences to offer advice to those headed out into the workforce.
Tester told the graduates to be prepared for the hard times, but to also cherish the good times.
“Whatever it is that you have left to do, I encourage you to get it done and that goes for everyone, not just our graduates,” Fox said.
-Reported by Mederios Babb & Lauren Heiser/MTN News
