Midland University celebrated the class of 2023 with both graduate and undergraduate commencement ceremonies on Friday and Saturday
Commencement is always an exciting time on campus,” said Jamie Simpson, Chief Academic Officer. “For our students, it’s a culmination of an exciting journey through college as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives.”
There were 54 students honored during the Graduate ceremony Friday at the Wikert Event Center. Colby Chase Benton served as the student speaker. Benton graduated with a Master of Science in Learning and Talent Development. During his time at Midland, Chase was a graduate assistant for the Midland University Sports Information Department.
Midland’s undergraduate ceremony honored 227 graduates Saturday at Wikert. The Rev. Martin Russell ‘86, served as the keynote speaker. Russell serves as the Director of Africa Operations for the Omaha-based Opportunity Education Foundation. Russell received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters during the ceremony.
Carter Welch served as the student speaker. Welch is a double major in Psychology and Sociology with a minor in Business.
Welch served in a variety of organizations during his time at MU. He was president of Blue Key Honor Society, Pi Gamma Mu, and served as president of the Student Senate for two years. Carter also held positions with Psi Chi Honor Society, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, and Residence Life.
Jessica Montes received the 2023 John R. Prauner award, presented annually to a member of the senior class who exemplifies scholarship and citizenship — the qualities Prauner was known for before his death in November of 1977 during his senior year at Midland.
Montes is a senior nursing major and has been involved in the Student Nurses Association. She has also served as a resident advisor, student hall director, a tutor for ARC, Cardinal Key Honor Society, and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for nursing.
