(processional music) (processional music continues) (processional music continues) - Good evening, and welcome to the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Spring Commencement Ceremony for the class of 2024.

(audience cheering) As MSU's first college, we acknowledge that Michigan State University occupies the ancestral, traditional and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe Three Fires Confederacy of Ojibwe, Odawa and Potawatomi peoples.

In particular, the university resides on land ceded in the 1819 Treaty of Saginaw.

We recognize, support and advocate for the sovereignty of Michigan's 12 federally recognized Indian nations, for historic Indigenous communities in Michigan, for Indigenous individuals and communities who live here now, and for those who were forcibly removed from their homelands.

By offering this land acknowledgement, we affirm Indigenous sovereignty and will work to hold Michigan State University more accountable to the needs of the American Indian and Indigenous peoples.

(audience cheering) Now, I invite you all to stand or position yourselves to join our students and faculty in singing one stanza of "The Star-Spangled Banner," presented by the MSU Symphony Band under the direction of Michael Gabriel and accompanied by music education senior Landon Black.

The lyrics are available on the screens, and upon conclusion of the music, please remain standing.

♪ O, say can you see ♪ ♪ By the the dawn's early light ♪ ♪ What so proudly we hailed ♪ ♪ At the twilight's last gleaming ♪ ♪ Whose brought stripes and bright stars ♪ ♪ Through the perilous fight ♪ ♪ O'er the ramparts we watched ♪ ♪ Were so gallantly streaming ♪ ♪ And the rockets' red glare ♪ ♪ The bombs bursting in air ♪ ♪ Gave proof through the night ♪ ♪ That our flag was still there ♪ ♪ O, say does that star spangled banner yet wave ♪ ♪ O'er the land of the free ♪ ♪ And the home of the brave ♪ (audience cheering) - Today, we bring together our graduates, along with your families, supporters, and friends, to honor and celebrate your accomplishments.

Let us pause for a moment of silent reflection and thankfulness.

In your own way, silently express your thanks and gratitude for the education you have received, the friendships you have enjoyed, and honor those that could not be here with you today.

Please be seated.

I am Dr. Laura Bix, assistant dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

It is my distinct honor to lead today's commencement ceremony.

Commencement signifies a new beginning, the life that lies before you.

With the completion of your degree, you are now on a path full of opportunities, a path that was paved by your hard work, discipline and sacrifice.

This is the time to celebrate your success as we, your mentors, advisors, faculty and supporters also express our pride in your accomplishments.

I believe that what you've learned in your classrooms and communities during your time at MSU will prepare you to lead and serve, no matter where life takes you.

In the coming years, you will look out onto horizons we cannot yet imagine.

You will use your education to take on the grand challenges of your generation, and you will do it with skill, empathy and the curiosity of a lifelong learner.

Graduates, we are so proud of you, and we hope you will find your way back to campus in the years ahead.

You will always have a home in our exceptional College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

(audience cheering) I now invite the honorable Brianna T. Scott, an MSU Board of Trustee member from Shelby Township, to greet our graduates and our guests.

(audience clapping) - I'm from Muskegon, Michigan.

I'm happy to be here.

Go green.

- [Audience] Go white.

- Thank you, Assistant Dean Bix.

And on behalf of the MSU Board of Trustees, I welcome all of the graduates, families, supporters and friends with us at this evening's undergraduate commencement.

Under the Michigan Constitution, the board of trustees is the governing body of the university by whose authority the degrees are awarded.

Today's ceremony represents the culmination of discipline, intellectual work and creative imagination, indeed, no small accomplishment, but for many of you and your families here today, the sacrifices have been long and great.

The degree that you have earned acknowledges your success and honors those who have encouraged it.

Our wish is that you will always be leaders who generously use your intelligence and your knowledge to improve the quality for your community, advance the common good, and renew hope in the human spirit.

Our faculty, the administrators, and the MSU trustees are all very proud of you.

Please accept our warmest congratulations and best wishes.

(audience clapping) - Thank you, Trustee Scott.

We now acknowledge several students noted by the university and the college for their work and impact as student leaders or for their academic prowess while at MSU.

As your name is called, please stand and remain standing.

Ginger Hiipakka and Susan Toppen.

Ginger, (audience cheering) yeah.

Ginger and Susan are our first graduates of ANR Fellows Program, and both are earning degrees in environmental studies and sustainability.

ANR Fellows serve as ambassadors for potential Spartans and visiting international students.

They create multimedia content to promote the college and our programs, and they helped develop our student-led service project, which premieres in fall 2025.

Your service has helped our college better support your peers and future Spartans.

Thank you for your service.

You may be seated.

(audience cheering) Rachel Drobnak.

Rachel is graduating with a degree in crop and soil sciences and is a member of the Honors College.

Rachel was awarded an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship.

The purpose of the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship is to help ensure the quality, vitality and diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce of the United States.

A goal of the program is to broaden participation of the full spectrum of diverse talents in STEM.

The five year fellowship provides three years of financial support, inclusive of an annual stipend of $37,000.

Congratulations, Rachel.

(audience clapping) You may be seated.

Each year, we pay tribute to graduates who have the distinction of maintaining the highest grade point average in the class, thereby meriting the Board of Trustees Award.

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources has 11 of the 271 students in this year's class who have achieved a perfect 4.0 grade point average as of fall 2023.

(audience clapping) Please stand and remain standing as your name is announced and your biography read.

I ask that all applause and cheers be held until all awardees are recognized.

Simon Collier.

Simon Collier is from Ann Arbor, Michigan.

He will graduate with a Bachelor of Animal Science.

Simon was a student employee at the MSU Swine Teaching and Research Center.

He also worked in the Animal Molecular Genetics Laboratory with Dr. Catherine Ernst, where he conducted research at the swine farm, looking at the impact of parity on stall utilization in free access stall systems, which was awarded first place award at URAF 2024.

After graduation, Simon will apply to a dual DVM-PhD program to support his goals of working as a swine veterinarian, continuing research, and acting as an extension specialist to the public.

Adrian J. Eggleston.

Adrian is from Laingsburg, Michigan.

He is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in agribusiness management.

After graduation, Adrian plans to work in the field of environmental sustainability while working toward a master's in agriculture economics.

Truman Forbes.

Truman is from Bradford, Pennsylvania.

He will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in environmental studies and sustainability.

Truman is a member of the Honors College, an MSU Model United Nations and the James Madison College Student Senate.

Truman completed a semester-long study abroad in Budapest, Hungary and interned with the US Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry in Washington DC.

After graduation, Truman plans to work in Michigan until he serves in the Peace Corps in Zambia starting in March of 2025.

Makenna M. Frank.

Makenna is from Rochester Hills, Michigan.

Makenna will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in dietetics with a minor in health promotion.

She thanks her dedicated professors as they made her success possible at MSU.

After graduation, Makenna will attend the University of Dayton and complete a master's program in dietetic internship starting the summer of 2024.

Jenna N. Galecki.

Jenna is from Wixom, Michigan.

She will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in packaging with minors in business and environmental and sustainability studies.

She was also a member of the Honors College.

Jenna is most proud of her time at her internships with Steelcase in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Eli Lilly in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Jenna will return to Eli Lilly this summer in a full-time role.

Zoe E. Grotz.

Zoe is from Commerce, Michigan.

She will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in packaging with a minor in environmental sustainability studies.

Zoe served as the diversity, equity and inclusion chair for her sorority Sigma Kappa, and completed two internship experiences with Unilever and Hormel Foods.

After graduation, Zoe will be moving to Chicago to work as a packaging engineer for Hormel Foods.

Nate T. Howder.

Nate is from Arlington, Virginia.

They are graduating with a degree in entomology and a degree in zoology with a focus in zoo and aquarium science.

They are a member of the Honors College and a recipient of the Alumni Distinguished Fellowship, Scholarship.

They helped reestablish Bug Club MSU and served for two years as its president.

They also contributed to the curation of the Albert J. Cook Arthropod Research Collection and Entomological Outreach through the MSU Bug House.

After graduating, Nate plans to continue their education through a master's program in entomology at MSU.

Maggie M. Kewley, Maggie is from Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

(audience cheering) She will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in interior design and an additional major in psychology.

Maggie was a member of Alpha Z Delta Sorority during her time at MSU.

She also had the opportunity to study abroad in Italy with the interior design program.

After graduation, Maggie hopes to travel to new places and pursue a career in hospitality design.

Laura R. Munday.

Laura is from Plymouth, Michigan.

She will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in packaging with minors in business and graphic design.

Laura completed an internship with Newell Brands in North Carolina and a co-op with Nestle R and D in West Michigan.

After graduation, Laura will return to Nestle as a packaging associate based in Grand Rapids.

Emma G. Richter.

Emma's from Rockford, Michigan.

She will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in animal science.

Emma was a member of the Honors College, the Pre-Vet Medical Association, and competed on the MSU Meat Judging Team.

After graduation, Emma plans to work as a vet assistant before beginning veterinary school at the Royal Veterinary College in London, England in the fall of 2024.

Lauren A. Ruzylo.

Lauren is from Grand Blank, Michigan.

She will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in packaging science and with a minor in environmental sustainability studies.

Lauren participated in a summer-long study abroad packaging program in the UK.

She also completed a six month co-op with Hershey Salty Snacks in Austin, Texas.

After graduation, Lauren will begin working with Kraft Heinz as an associate scientist on the packaging R and D team in Chicago, Illinois.

(audience cheering) Miranda E. Triolet.

Miranda is from Canton, Michigan.

She will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in environmental economics and management with minors in Spanish and business.

Miranda was a member of the Honors College during her four years at Michigan State.

She completed an undergraduate research project on PFAS in Michigan waterways and played for the women's ACHA D1 ice hockey team.

After graduation, Miranda plans to continue working for the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy.

On behalf of your classmates, the faculty, the senior class council, and the MSU Board of Trustees, I extend my sincere congratulations and best wishes to you all for these accomplishments.

(audience cheering) Please join me in congratulating the class of 2024.

(audience clapping) You may now be seated.

It is wonderful to gaze upon the sea of green robes on the graduates and the various colors in the robes and hoods of the faculty.

Our graduates wear either maize or russet tassels depending on their major.

You will notice gold cords around the necks of some graduates.

These cords signify that those students are graduating with honor, having a grade point average of 3.88 or higher, or with high honor, a grade point average of 3.97 or higher.

78 students in this class have achieved such a distinction.

Students graduating with honor or high honor, please stand and be recognized.

(audience cheering) You may, you may now be seated.

Michigan State University and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources would like to recognize individuals who have helped ensure this nation's, this great nation's security.

At this time, will all graduating veterans and military personnel please stand to be recognized?

(audience cheering) Congratulations, and thank you for your service.

You may now be seated.

At this time, I invite Dr. Antomia Farrell, associate dean and director for diversity, equity and inclusion to the podium to introduce our student speaker.

- Good evening.

Each year, the college accepts nominations from faculty and academic advisors for the College of Ag and Natural Resources Outstanding Student Leadership Award.

This award is given to a graduating senior who demonstrates dedication to the department, college, university and community activities.

It is the tradition of the college to ask the student who receives the Outstanding Student Leadership Award to represent the senior class in a reflection of their MSU experience.

The 2024 award winner is Natali Gonzalez.

(audience cheering) Natali is a first generation student from a migrant farm worker family.

She was raised in Mexico, working with orange orchards, a source of income for her family.

Being a farm worker helped Natali realize the important relationship between nature and humanity.

Although the working and living conditions were harsh, Natali developed a love and respect for nature, which has led to a degree in environmental studies and sustainability.

As a Spartan, Natali developed her leadership skills, courage and confidence through a transformative international engagement in Mexico where she guided a group of students through the Chiapas, a sustainable development site.

Natali's tenure as the MANRRS president also honed her leadership skills from organizing events to chairing meetings.

Natali was privileged to share her journey with exceptional individuals who resonated with her experiences.

Natali's passion for environmental science, nurtured through her lab and field work, fueled her desire to delve deeper into the workings of our environment.

Natali will begin her doctoral program this fall in crops and soil sciences under the guidance of Dr. Christine Sprunger at Michigan State University.

Natali has been awarded two prestigious fellowships, the Plant Science Fellowship and the CS Mott Fellowship, which will fund her degree.

Natali aspires to help disseminate knowledge throughout communities of color to inspire historically marginalized individuals to pursue agricultural careers.

Finally, Natali wants me to end with this, quote, "The roots of our fruits are bound to the soil.

A connection so deep must be meaningful."

End quote.

With that, please welcome Natali to the podium.

(audience clapping) - I appreciate the introduction, Dean Farrell.

(Natali speaking Spanish) (audience cheering) Good afternoon and welcome, friends, family, colleagues, faculty, students and my beloved grandmother who traveled from Mexico to see me in this stadium even before knowing that I was going to give this speech.

(audience clapping) I am grateful to be here today and to have the privilege of sharing this moment with you all and to have the opportunity to share some words from my experience.

As we gather here today and receive a paper congratulating us on passing, I wanna think about the time we've all shared and the many experiences we've lived through these past years to make it to this ceremony.

Some of us are graduating after seeing our peers graduate before us, perhaps because we needed a break during the pandemic or some troubled times.

Others may be graduating with no idea as to what to do next.

At the same time, others are sitting here with some plan, but still unsure if they figured it out.

Regardless of how the situation looks, know that no one is ever truly sure of how their journey in life will turn out.

As I thought about what I wanted to say, I kept thinking about everything it took to get here.

Many of us can relate to how much work we put into getting the degree.

I thought about the times my Grandma, my brother and I would wake up early, at about 4:00 AM, so we could leave to sell miscellaneous items at the swap meets or (speaking Spanish) in Texas.

I recalled when we worked 12 hour shifts at packaging houses for agricultural products in Georgia.

I remembered the many jobs I had, from working at Whataburger, Walmart, JC Penney, (speaking Spanish) and so many more.

At all these places, I had no clue what was next.

I just always knew I needed to do more, because my grandparents believed in me and because my ancestors didn't suffer through so much so I could pass on opportunities they didn't have.

After migrating to a country where so much was unknown, my grandmother was a constant reminder that, despite the doubters, I could overcome many obstacles.

After being motivated to attend college by a high school teacher who saw potential in me when I hadn't, I began a journey where I knew no one and much was unknown.

I moved to a place where a lot was new to me besides the sun, moon and stars.

Sharing that same sky with my family at times is what helped.

Calling my grandmother to say, "Hey, did you see the beautiful full moon?"

It was something I look forward to at times.

(Natali speaking Spanish) Sometimes I was uncertain if all this work and sacrifice was worth it as I stood alongside others who had successes in their life without a degree.

I wasn't sure why I was pursuing something I didn't truly enjoy.

I started here as a chemical engineer, because growing up, my grandpa always made engineers seem cool.

I began asking my advisor more questions, because I doubted I could do the work I wanted to as an engineer.

I thank John Denny for providing guidance and leading me to the amazing Jeane Stapleton, who has been my advisor until now.

(audience cheering) Although I was beyond terrified to be making changes in majors, because who knew what would happen?

I'm thankful I spoke up and was led to the department of community sustainability, because through that change in my journey, I found many inspiring people and mentors who've played a significant role in my time here.

From the fantastic friends I've made and been enlightened and motivated by, to the awesome Dr. Doug Bessette, who shared many experiences and stories that inspired me, to Dr. Jeno Rivera, whose wonderful teachings helped me discover more about myself and aided me in finding the empowering Minorities in Agriculture and Natural Resources and Related Sciences organization, MANNRS, and to my mentors, Stephanie, Ayo and Shannon, I am so grateful for your guidance during so many difficult times.

This was my story.

You have your story, and we have our Spartan story.

Some of our stories may include similar elements, but how we feel or remember them will differ.

We remember waking up early for our classes or staying up late with friends.

We remember being away from family and friends at home and trying to find ways to stay connected.

We remember navigating the pandemic, university challenges, personal matters and so much more.

We can recall needing help and relying on our community at MSU, whether it be advisors, faculty members or our fellow peers.

Some of us know what it's like to change majors, find minors or take a different direction than initially anticipated.

We found people that supported us and helped us along our journey.

We found groups that we belong to.

We engaged with our community as leaders and influencers.

Many of us carried the responsibility of doing this not only for ourselves but for our families and our communities, and now we're here celebrating these accomplishments.

As I said, we are never truly sure of how our journey in life will turn out.

So as you look into the future, consider that, although, at this given moment, you may not know what precisely is next, you are capable of greatness.

(audience cheering) Yes.

You've achieved so much to get here, and only life knows how much more you can accomplish.

No one can steal your thunder when you are the storm.

No one can steal your thunder when you are the storm.

(audience cheering) This empowering truth, shared with me not long ago, helped me overcome some struggles and uncertainties about decisions regarding my future.

If you, (audience member shouting) if you carry all the knowledge, dreams and abilities, why would you allow someone else to tell you what you can and can't do?

(audience cheering) As we leave today, I hope you all know that you are the carriers of that which can shape the future of our journeys.

Congratulations to all the graduates.

I wish you all the best in your journeys.

Gracias.

Go green!

- [Audience] Go white!

(audience clapping) - Natali, thank you.

(audience clapping) Your experience and perspective are true to the Spartan spirit.

You have shared genuine expressions of grit, determination and compassion.

These are true characteristics of great people and great leaders.

Our graduates and guests will remember your powerful words.

Quote, "No one can steal your thunder when you are the storm," end quote.

Thank you for such a moving message.

(audience clapping) I will now present our graduates for the awarding of their baccalaureate degrees across the major disciplines of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

(audience cheering) Candidates in the School of Planning, Design and Construction will be presented by school director Dr. Rene Hinojosa.

(audience member cheering) (audience clapping) - Hello.

Will the candidates from construction management, landscape architecture and interior design, please rise and remain standing?

(audience cheering) Assistant Dean Bix, these students have completed all the requirements for their degrees, and on behalf of the faculty of the School of Planning, Design and Construction, I present them to you for the awarding of their diplomas.

Please remain standing.

- Thank you.

Candidates from the department of food science and human nutrition will be presented by Chairperson Dr. Les Bourquin.

(audience clapping) - Will the exceptional candidates in dietetics, food science and nutritional sciences, please stand?

(audience cheering) Assistant Dean Bix, these students have completed all the requirements for their degrees, and on behalf of the faculty, it's my pleasure to present them to you for the presenting of their diplomas.

Candidates, please remain standing.

(audience cheering) - Candidates from the School of Packaging will be presented by School Director Dr. Matt Daum.

(audience cheering) - Candidates from the School of Packaging, please rise.

(audience cheering) Assistant Dean Bix, these students have completed all the requirements for their degrees, and on behalf of the faculty, I present them to you for the awarding of their diplomas.

Please stand, please remain standing.

(audience cheering) - Candidates from the department of horticulture will be presented by Chairperson Dr. Vance Baird.

(audience cheering) - Good evening.

Would the candidates majoring in horticulture please stand?

(audience cheering) Assistant Dean Bix, these students have completed all of the requirements for their degree, and on behalf of the faculty, I present them to you for the awarding of their diplomas.

(audience clapping) - Candidates from the department of agricultural, food and resource economics will be presented by Chairperson Dr. Chad Cotti.

- Will the candidates majoring in agribusiness management, environmental economics and management, and food industry management please stand?

(audience cheering) Assistant Dean Bix, these students have completed all the requirements for their degrees, and on behalf of the faculty, I present them to you for the awarding of their diplomas.

(audience clapping) - Candidates from the department of community sustainability will be presented by Chairperson Dr. Rebecca Jordan.

- Thank you.

Will the candidates from the community sustainability majors please stand?

And wave because I'm gonna get a picture.

(audience cheering) Yay.

Thank you.

Assistant Dean Bix, Dr. Ferrell, these students have completed all the requirements for their degrees, and on behalf of the faculty, I present them to you for the awarding of their diplomas.

(audience cheering) - Candidates from the department of animal science will be presented by chairperson Dr. Kathy Ernst.

(audience cheering) - Will the candidates majoring in animal science please stand?

(audience cheering) Assistant Dean Bix, these students have completed all of the requirements for their degrees, and on behalf of the faculty and the staff in the department of animal science, I present them for the awarding of their diplomas.

(audience cheering) - Candidates from the department of forestry will be presented by Chairperson Dr. Richard Kobe.

(audience clapping) - Will the fabulous candidates majoring in forestry please stand?

(audience cheering) Assistant Dean Bix, these students have completed all the requirements for their degrees.

On behalf of the faculty, I present them to you for the awarding of their diplomas.

- Thanks.

(audience clapping) Candidates from the department of plant soil and microbial sciences will be presented by Associate Department Chairperson Dr. Brian Horgan.

(audience cheering) - Will the candidates majoring in the major of crop and soil science please stand?

(audience cheering) These students have completed all their requirements for their degrees, and on behalf of the faculty in the department of plant and soil microbial sciences, I present to you for the awarding of their diplomas.

- Thanks.

- Thank you.

(audience cheering) - Candidates from the department of fisheries and wildlife will be presented by Associate Chairperson for Academic Programs Dr. Mary Bremigan.

- Will the fabulous candidates majoring in fisheries and wildlife please stand?

(audience cheering) Assistant Dean Bix, these students have completed all the requirements for their degrees, and on behalf of the faculty, I proudly present them to you for the awarding of their diplomas.

(audience clapping) - Candidates from the department of entomology will be presented by Chairperson Dr. Hannah Burrack.

- Will the candidates majoring in entomology please stand?

(audience cheering) Assistant Dean Bix, these insect experts have completed all the requirements for their degrees, and on behalf of the faculty, I could not be more proud to present them to you for the awarding of their diplomas.

Everybody, please keep standing.

- Thanks.

(audience cheering) Assistant Dean Bix, I invite you to confer the bachelors degrees upon our graduates.

(audience clapping) - On behalf of President Kevin Guskiewicz, who has delegated to him the authority of the State of Michigan vested in the Board of Trustees, I confer upon you the Bachelors of Arts, the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, or the Bachelor of Science degree for which you have qualified with all rights and distinctions to which it entitles you.

Graduates, according to custom, you may now move your tassels from the right side of your caps to the left.

(audience cheering) This act represents the conclusion of an outstanding achievement and marks the beginning of a lifetime of dedicated service to humanity.

It is an achievement worthy of celebration.

We are here this evening to celebrate 553 students who have completed their academic program of their choice in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Congratulations.

(audience cheering) Now, we will recognize each of the graduates.

A department marshal will escort the graduates to the stage.

James Paisley and Linda Kernohan from WKAR will read their names, and Associate Dean Farrell will assist me in presenting token diplomas.

Official diplomas will be mailed to graduates after spring semester grades are reported.

(audience laughing) In addition to the individual recognition of all graduates, a professional photographer will take pictures of each student receiving their diploma.

I ask that families and guests please remain in the upper stands until all graduates receive their diplomas and that graduates return to their seats for the remainder of the ceremony.

(audience cheering) - Let us know when.

(participant laughing) (audience cheering) Later.

Okay.

(audience cheering) Got it.

From the department of entomology, Claire Komaretz, Komarzec, (audience clapping) Nathaniel Howder, Roberto Angel Bloom, (audience cheering) Emma Charney, (audience cheering) Coral Ann Brock, (audience cheering) Jenna Byrne.

(audience cheering) From the department of fisheries and wildlife, Cassidy Lee Ellen Zimmerman, (audience cheering) Randy Rose Schneider, (audience cheering) Joni Kendall, Nick Brown, (audience cheering) Azana?

Azana Marie Cochran, Vanessa Udell, Leckaroni?

- Leckrone.

- Leckrone.

Ashley Leckrone, Courtney Alpers, (audience cheering) Olivia Coskie, (audience cheering) Bryn Michael Sommerfeldt, (audience whistling) Sarah Gareau, (audience cheering) Christine Smeltzer, (audience cheering) Sierra Ostman, (audience cheering) Isabele Kremer, (audience cheering) Max Petsch, (audience cheering) - [Audience Member] Yeah boy!

- [James] Griffin Bartscht, (audience cheering) Max Helser, (audience cheering) Pekrul?

- Yeah.

- Luke Pekrul, (audience cheering) Seth Jacob Offringa, (audience cheering) Hunter Nowak, (audience cheering) Luke Sayler, (audience cheering) Trent Alec Viebahn, (audience cheering) Ellen Young, (audience cheering) MaKenzie McUmber, (audience cheering) Maureen Alof, (audience cheering) Kelly Craig, - [Audience Member] Yeah!

- Grace Irene Duerr, (audience cheering) Chmura?

- Yeah.

- Amanda Chmura, (audience cheering) Sarah Naughtin, (audience cheering) Katie Joles, (audience cheering) Mia Marie Bianchi, (audience cheering) Ashlyn Alise Clement, (audience cheering) Brooke Nicole Leatherman.

(audience cheering) From the department of forestry, Jenna Thayer, (audience cheering) Richard, Rishard?

- Richard.

- Eric Richard, Matthew Pena, William Lupia, (audience cheering) Ethan Vanantwerp, (audience cheering) Christian Tibaudo, - Congratulations.

- From the department of plant soil and microbial sciences, Emma Woller, (audience cheering) Aubrey Sherwood, (audience cheering) Trey Karson Ellens, (audience cheering) Elias Elzalde?

- Elizalde.

- Elizalde.

Kyle Elizalde, (audience cheering) Kirsten Lynn Klee, (audience cheering) Ty Ernst, (audience cheering) Abraham Fellabaum, (audience member whistling) Anthony Williams, (audience cheering) Jonathan Ray Bickford, - Yay Jono!

(audience cheering) - [James] Garrett Menko, (audience cheering) David Berger, - Congratulations.

(audience cheering) - [James] Ethan Smith, (audience cheering) Cole Robert Luck, Mutschler?

- Yeah.

- Emily Jo Mutschler, (audience cheering) Ryder Gilbert.

(audience cheering) From the department of animal science, Paris Garner, (audience cheering) Angel?

- Anjel.

- Anjel.

Anjel Jolie Jreissati, (audience cheering) Emma Janina Feltz, (audience cheering) Madison Rajewski, (audience cheering) Mikaila Jade Brubaker, (audience cheering) Jazmine Smith, (audience cheering) Marissa Lynn Wilcox, (audience cheering) Lauren Martin, (audience cheering) Brandon McClure, (audience cheering) Brooke Ann Fisher, (audience cheering) Alexis Brady, (audience cheering) Taylor Mulder, (audience cheering) Megan Grusczynski, (audience cheering) Anna Marie Munger, (audience cheering) Irie Grace Moussiaux, (audience cheering) Tessa Jean Bednarski, (audience cheering) Morgan Mary McVannel, (audience cheering) Caitlynn Sanders, (audience cheering) Jessika Wolfsen, (audience cheering) Riley Nicole Vandendries, (audience cheering) Robyn Suarez, (audience cheering) Kasey Matusik, (audience cheering) Joslyn Nicole Miller, (audience cheering) Kaitlyn Rankin, (audience cheering) Carter Riley Marrs, (audience cheering) Autumn Williams, (audience cheering) Danielle Kathryn Rummel, (audience cheering) Halli?

Halli Pawlowski, (audience cheering) Samantha Whitehead, (audience cheering) Abigail Christine Baxter, (audience cheering) Ferkado?

Allie Ferkado, (audience cheering) Faith Ann Mattarella, (audience cheering) Mackenzie Rademacher, (audience cheering) Latecia Christina Ortiz, (audience cheering) Kaitlyn Powers, (audience cheering) Emily Christine Fortier, (audience cheering) Riley Elizabeth Barber, (audience cheering) Tess Dobson, (audience cheering) Lauren Newbery, (audience cheering) Emma Kaitlin Kelleher, (audience cheering) Lane Herrman, (audience cheering) Stuart Limbaugh, (audience cheering) Ted Brooks, (audience cheering) Alexis Mae Gibbons, (audience cheering) Isabella Antoinette Beemer, (audience cheering) Kalley Morgan Yates, (audience cheering) Alivia West, (audience cheering) Danella Renee Hidalgo Gong, (audience cheering) Kaitlyn Hately, (audience cheering) Chloe Lanning, (audience cheering) Ryleigh Cathleen Rainville, (audience cheering) Rosemary Piett, (audience cheering) Elisabeth Grace Schneider, (audience cheering) Zeb Morton, (audience cheering) Sebastian Garrett Brunner, (audience cheering) Ellana?

- Ellana.

- Ellana Kathleen Haifley, (audience cheering) Adriana Gisselle Almanza, (audience cheering) Jalen Brown, (audience cheering) Michael Aaron, (audience cheering) Emmanuel Strong, (audience cheering) Matt Nikolaidis, (audience cheering) Jenny Booth, (audience cheering) Madeline Fry, (audience cheering) Dawn Nam, (audience cheering) Kennedy Brae Glowczewski, Laine Vaughn, (audience cheering) Catherine Bonner, Meagan Hicks, (audience cheering) Madison Cummins, (audience cheering) Breanna Laughlin, (audience cheering) Alyssa Marin Cocel, Alexandra Katherine White, (audience cheering) Riley Shea Govang, (audience cheering) Nadia Elizabeth White, (audience cheering) Emma Grace Zhao Richter, (audience cheering) Abigail Sarah Chervin, (audience cheering) Gabrielle Marie McCumber, (audience cheering) Kailyn Davis, (audience cheering) Montserrat Bonfante, (audience cheering) Alexis Lea Kaempf, (audience cheering) Elizabeth Keller, (audience cheering) Elisa Caroline Gay, - Eliza.

- Eliza Caroline Gay.

(audience cheering) Camille Davis, (audience cheering) Jody Anne Boden, (audience cheering) Jessie Smith, (audience cheering) At the next department, we'll switch.

- [Linda] Okay.

- Sabrina Dauer, (audience cheering) Lexi Krause, (audience cheering) Hannah Aman, (audience cheering) Riley Beth Wranosky, (audience cheering) Audrey Lynne Barnes, Kang, Kong?

Kang.

Jenny Kang, (audience cheering) Jazmyne Julii Chaialee-Wong, (audience cheering) Brianna Dodge, (audience cheering) Emily Ann Malarkey, Makarlarkey, (audience cheering) Makayla Marie Kahman, (audience cheering) Jessica Smith and guest leader dog Sadie, (audience cheering) Collier?

- Yeah.

- Simon Collier, (audience cheering) Jacob VanderMolen, (audience cheering) Margaret Escobar, (audience cheering) Kaitlyn Robledo, (audience cheering) Lydia Humphrey, (audience cheering) Kasey Rose Martin, (audience cheering) Sabrina Hodroj, (audience cheering) Jordan Stimack, (audience whistling) Raegan Barker, (audience cheering) Deanna Gallagher, (audience cheering) Carolina Bernal, (audience cheering) Sara Elizabeth Levendoski, (audience cheering) Carissa Mya Clark, (audience cheering) Maya Salamey, Julia Hogan, (audience member whistling) Nathan Overton.

All right.

(audience cheering) - From the department of community sustainability, Riley Anne McKee, (audience cheering) Makayla Parks, (audience cheering) Aubrey Everett, (audience cheering) Emily Koren Sinclair, (audience cheering) Susan Toppen, (audience cheering) Casey Frump, (audience cheering) Rachel Hamilton, (audience cheering) Zach Sullivan, (audience cheering) Halle Mumford, (audience cheering) Luke Hurley, (audience cheering) Ethan Frost, (audience cheering) Benjamin Thomas Matthews, (audience cheering) Fonataba?

Steve Adam Fonataba, (audience cheering) Nicholas Stefan, (audience cheering) Jacob Nelson, (audience cheering) Ginger Ann Hiipakka, (audience cheering) Luke Schwartz, (audience cheering) Brooke Christine Cibor, (audience cheering) Lauren Loose, (audience cheering) Madeline Cronin, (audience cheering) Truman Forbes, (audience cheering) Elizabeth Esh, (audience cheering) Anna Kowert, (audience cheering) Taylor Shelmat, (audience cheering) Anna Rose Wilberding, (audience cheering) Annika Raquel Swope, (audience cheering) Olivia McCaffrey, (audience cheering) LaPointe?

Rose LaPointe, (audience cheering) Sarah May Lee Calvert, (audience cheering) Hishon?

- Hishon.

- Megan Nicole Hishon, (audience cheering) Corey Martorana, (audience cheering) Arianna Terese Korelis Stringer, (audience cheering) Alexandra Morris, (audience cheering) Ashley Marie Childers, (audience cheering) - Thank you.

You're welcome.

- Catherine Elizabeth Stephens, (audience cheering) Madison Cunnien, (audience cheering) Shelby Marocco?

- Yeah.

- Shelby Marocco, (audience cheering) Allison McCurdy, (audience cheering) Madison Janes, (audience cheering) Joshua Doyle, (audience cheering) Brendan Thomas Smith, (audience cheering) Connor Chin, (audience cheering) Ireland Betsold, (audience cheering) Madisen Deaver, (audience cheering) Nikki Chopra, (audience cheering) Delaney Hudson, (audience cheering) Maeve O'Hare, (audience cheering) Elinor Raggon, (audience cheering) Kira Dowell, (audience cheering) Tess Elizabeth Bradley, (audience cheering) Dia Sharp, (audience cheering) Gabrielle Ahlborn, (audience cheering) Eva Kalberer, (audience cheering) Natasha Lawson, (audience cheering) Zoey Zupin, (audience cheering) Abigail VanDyk, (audience cheering) William Jonathan King, (audience cheering) Zosha Anne Kuiper, (audience cheering) Caleb Rypstra, (audience cheering) Autumn O'Connor, (audience cheering) Catarina Rose Merlo, (audience cheering) Jordyn Frohner, (audience cheering) Crosier?

- Crosha?

Crosier.

- Anna Elizabeth Crosier, (audience cheering) - [Audience Member] Anna, I love you!

- Veronica Johnson, (audience cheering) Kieran Ferris, (audience cheering) Alexander Gainor, (audience cheering) Jesse Hernandez, (audience cheering) Victor Davis, (audience cheering) - Congratulations.

- Abigail Vansickle, (audience cheering) Dow Kerns, (audience cheering) Natali Gonzalez, (audience cheering) - You wanna stay with?

- No, I'll do.

From the department of agricultural, food and resource economics, Matt Rodgers, (audience cheering) Cole Ferguson, (audience cheering) Jacob Mills, (audience cheering) Dane Taylor, - Congratulations.

- Thomas Norris, (audience cheering) - [Audience Member] Dear guy!

- Adam Johns, (audience cheering) Matthew Wheeler, (audience cheering) Garrett Hribar, (audience cheering) - [James] Skip the middle.

- Nathan Huber, (audience cheering) Nicholas Bluemlein, (audience cheering) Kenton Stoutenburg, (audience cheering) Matt Schnack, (audience cheering) Corbin?

Corbin Haak, - Congratulations.

- Read the handwriting.

- Yeah.

- Itela?

Yeah, I got it.

- Itela.

- Destiny Itela, (audience cheering) Liam Clifford, (audience cheering) Connor Niepoth, (audience cheering) Samuel Cole, (audience cheering) - [James] Victor?

- Victor Nesta, (audience cheering) Michael Gastwirth, (audience cheering) Catryna Lear, (audience cheering) Ava Theresa Farlin, (audience cheering) Austin Tyler Goleniak, (audience cheering) Colin Goleniak, (audience cheering) Grace Sutherland, (audience cheering) - [James] Yep.

- Aiden Cloud, (audience cheering) Miranda Triolet, (audience cheering) Koopman?

Dustin Koopman, not like John Copeman, Mateo Ponton, (audience cheering) Valerio De Sanctis, Jennifer Cronin, (audience cheering) Derek Alexander Fiebig, (audience cheering) Bayne Willson, (audience cheering) Anel Aguilar, (audience cheering) Sarah Lynn Tackett, (audience cheering) Colin McMahon, (audience cheering) Ryann McDowell, (audience cheering) Grace Om, (audience cheering) Robert Lawrence Porter, Jr. (audience cheering) Stocchiero?

Stephen?

Stephen Stocchiero, (audience cheering) Jack Guzdziol, (audience cheering) Brandon Kerby, (audience cheering) Owen Kittendorf, (audience cheering) Zachary Kyllonen.

- Department ends with that line.

You wanna stop at that?

Okay.

- Sure.

(audience cheering) Kyle Freeman, (audience cheering) Andrew Ward, (audience cheering) Jerry Alan Barnes, Jr, (audience cheering) Grace Hull, (audience cheering) Evan Hines, (audience cheering) Adrian John Eggleston The First, (audience member shouting) Tanner Marie Butler, (audience member shouting) Thea Higgins, (audience cheering) Robert Nixon, (audience cheering) Zajac?

- Zajac.

- Adam Zajac, (audience cheering) Tetsuya Higuchi, Sarah Nicole Votta, (audience cheering) Megan Sny, (audience cheering) Hayley Wineland, (audience cheering) Alexis Wheeler, (audience cheering) Adam Baker, (audience cheering) Figure?

- Figures.

- Figures.

- Sam Figures, - [James] Daniel Augusto Peralta.

- Daniel Augusto Peralta, (audience cheering) Carrick Randall, (audience cheering) Alvaro Martinez-Parra, (audience cheering) - Congratulations.

- [Linda] Michael Cap, (audience cheering) Nathanael Chuadri, (audience cheering) Luke Moss, (audience cheering) - It's coming.

(audience cheering) - Matthew Johnson, (audience cheering) Colton Black, (audience cheering) Avery Rugg, (audience cheering) Mitchell Racette, (audience cheering) Grace Velthoven, (audience cheering) Kaitlyn McKenna Higgins, (audience cheering) Laura Krikke, (audience cheering) Kerrigan Lynch, (audience cheering) Robert Levi Couch, (audience cheering) Abigail Diane Ellis, (audience cheering) Madalyn Nycole Draper, (audience cheering) (presenters chattering) (James laughing) - We good?

- Are you good?

All right.

Let's go.

From the department of horticulture, Alexis Bates, Connor Helsen, (audience cheering) Abigail Louise Wagner, (audience cheering) Carla Lynn Redinger, (audience cheering) Sarah Vanderlaan, (audience cheering) Allison Bearse, (audience cheering) Vera Margaret Janelle Soucy, (audience cheering) Jordan Pipia, (audience cheering) Madeline Anthony, (audience cheering) Brooke Hossink, (audience cheering) Carmen Kale Beemer, (audience cheering) Labria Shante Lane, (audience cheering) Matthew Vettraino, (audience cheering) Jayden Hathaway, (audience cheering) JD McClanahan, (audience cheering) Isaac Scott McKay, (audience cheering) Alex Morgridge, (audience cheering) Tyler Hunt.

(audience cheering) From the School of Packaging, Elizabeth Sibula, (audience cheering) Dylan Madurski, (audience cheering) Brendan Burns, (audience cheering) Grant Batis, (audience cheering) Kyle White, (audience cheering) Brendan Lynn, (audience cheering) Lauren Ruzylo, (audience cheering) Stephanie Rose Spehalski, (audience cheering) Lauren Elizabeth Phillips, (audience cheering) Melissa Christine Whipple, (audience cheering) Adrian Meduna, (audience cheering) Kyle Finn, (audience cheering) Alyssa Christine Miller, (audience cheering) Makenna Oberski, (audience cheering) Jenna Galecki, (audience cheering) Alison Johnson, (audience cheering) Olivia Phillips, Paige Kendra, (audience cheering) Kayla Wilson, (audience cheering) Laura Munday, Brynn Werner, (audience cheering) Isabel Staufer, (audience cheering) Rachel White, (audience cheering) Antonia Suchy, (audience cheering) Joe Foster, (audience cheering) Peyton Voefray, (audience cheering) Megan Nieters, (audience cheering) Jessica Schager, (audience cheering) Hayden Hunter Killgrove, (audience cheering) Emma Zoe Irene Morath, (audience cheering) Emma Dayton, (audience cheering) Nicole Robertson, Bretzke?

- Yeah.

- Ellen Bretzke, (audience cheering) Andrej Simic, (audience cheering) Brandon Randall Singer, (audience cheering) Ava Caroline Gallant, (audience cheering) Paula Ha, (audience cheering) Lauren Grawburg, (audience cheering) Andrew Madigan, (audience cheering) Joseph Anthony Popowitz, (audience cheering) Carley Holcomb, (audience cheering) Adrienne Carroll, (audience cheering) Gillis?

- Yeah.

- Blake Gillis, (audience cheering) Greta Lynn Bommelje, (audience cheering) Abby Wilkins, (audience cheering) Rieser?

- Yeah.

- Madalyne Rieser, (audience cheering) Zachary Michael Bobel, (audience cheering) Blake Erik Walther, (audience cheering) Mitchell VanNote, (audience cheering) - Chiderah Nwaopara.

- One more time.

- Chiderah Nwaopara, (audience cheering) Lukas Miner, (audience cheering) David Littlefeld, (audience cheering) Zachary Tyler Hurst, (audience cheering) Nosheel Hasan, (audience cheering) Luke Birchmeier, (audience cheering) Owen Gof, (audience cheering) Reith?

- Yeah.

- Nicholas Reith, (audience cheering) Kyle Burns, (audience cheering) Michael Lauth, (audience cheering) - [Audience Member] Yeah boy!

Yeah boy!

- Jessica Bruce, (audience cheering) Gabrielle Khella, (audience cheering) Larry Josey, (audience cheering) Owen Syrek, (audience cheering) Kimberly Kerzel, (audience cheering) Ashton Fuentes, (audience cheering) Abigail Marie Inch, (audience cheering) Cooper Busse, (audience cheering) Grant Busse, (audience cheering) Derek Pearson, (audience cheering) Zoe Elizabeth Grotz, (audience cheering) Erin Nicole Dalman, (audience cheering) John Gary, (audience cheering) Corey Hatfeld, (audience cheering) Tyler Hilgendorf, (audience cheering) Eric Salazar, (audience cheering) Skylar Fryover, (audience cheering) Adriana Rose Weinkauf, (audience cheering) Emily Rose Hund, (audience cheering) Annmarie Claire Lockwood, (audience cheering) - Schaecher.

- Jack Schaecher, (audience cheering) Jaden Lynch, (audience cheering) LJ Sack, (audience cheering) Michael Nuculaj.

From the department of food science and human nutrition, Anthony Millikan, (audience cheering) Selewski?

Kennedy Selewski.

(audience cheering) Kayla Louise Eklund, (audience cheering) Juliett Rosleen Hawa, (audience cheering) Grace Griffin, (audience cheering) Cheryl Wagner, (audience cheering) Sarina Windel, (audience cheering) Sarah Jane Seagram, (audience cheering) Triniti Lauren Nery, (audience cheering) Grace Hudson Welch, (audience cheering) Makenna Frank, (audience cheering) Bryana Marie Wollney, (audience cheering) Holly Daugard, (audience cheering) Ava Bell, (audience cheering) Kiera Thelen, (audience cheering) Katherine Grace Moeder, (audience cheering) Kaylee Gallatin, (audience cheering) Nicole St. John, (audience cheering) Abigail Renee Montpas, (audience cheering) Kaitlyn Woodyard, (audience cheering) Taleen Vartanian-Gibbs, (audience cheering) Voytach?

- Wojtowicz.

- Nina Wojtowicz, (audience cheering) Emma Goetcheus, (audience cheering) Jillian Langan, Georgia Cheng Bernwanger, (audience cheering) Kim Thien Le, - [Audience Member] Yeah, Kim!

- Yeah, Kim!

(audience cheering) - Sruti Mathi, (audience cheering) My Huynh, (audience cheering) Mya Yasmeen Price, (audience cheering) Aliya Perez, (audience cheering) Amya Marshall, (audience cheering) Arias?

Ivar Arias, Grant Coash, (audience cheering) - [Audience Member] Go Grant!

- [James] Taylor Adams, (audience cheering) Paige Helfen, (audience cheering) Wesley Kim, (audience cheering) Sophia LaPinta, (audience cheering) Megan Grove, (audience cheering) Ben Sawyer Delusky, (audience cheering) Lingchong Zeng, (audience cheering) Orin?

- Orion.

- Orion.

Adam Orion Steinhauer, (audience cheering) Marisa Lee Bacon, (audience cheering) Olivia Graham, (audience cheering) Alyssa Chechak, (audience cheering) Mya Reynolds, (audience cheering) Raelyn Baker, (audience cheering) Shaney Rump?

Shaney Rump, (audience cheering) Lauren Neufeld, (audience cheering) Corrina Jade Beecher, (audience cheering) Wama Mazin Algum, (audience cheering) Ashley Chong, (audience cheering) Mason Hooker, oh.

Hold up.

(audience cheering) Leanne?

- Yeah.

- Leanne Yulao Li, (audience cheering) Carson Joseph Pascoe, (audience cheering) Antonio Molnar, (audience cheering) Drew Cataline, (audience cheering) Rhajani Shepherd, (audience cheering) Romari Brown, (audience cheering) Olivia Hoeschele, (audience cheering) Kira Arvanitis, (audience cheering) Isabel Marie Panyard, (audience cheering) Olivia Bartunek, (audience cheering) Nishta Kakar, (audience cheering) Emma Jean Patenaude, (audience cheering) Paige Christine Buranosky, (audience cheering) Donna Schock, (audience cheering) Kathryn Bobzin, (audience cheering) Dominique Presley, (audience cheering) Isabelle Ann Mary Talia, (audience cheering) One last.

(audience cheering) - Kramek?

From the School of Planning, Design and Construction, Kennedy Gerard Kramek, (audience cheering) Cameron John Borchert, (audience cheering) Ryan Schmunk, (audience cheering) Bernie Diekevers, (audience cheering) Mason Young, (audience cheering) Tory Lynn Maciejewski, Chandler Clifford Jones, (audience cheering) - Congratulations.

- Sofia Iaquinto, (audience cheering) Thomas Hovde, (audience cheering) Grant Alshab, - One moment.

(audience cheering) - Dario Canzano, (audience cheering) Arlo Durgy, (audience cheering) Brendan Usher, (audience cheering) Lilly Hilgendorf, (audience cheering) Robin Eileen Bauer, (audience cheering) Gurasees Dhingra, Gurasees Kaur Dhingra, (audience cheering) Hannah Marie Hamel, (audience cheering) Madison Elizabeth Cytlak, (audience cheering) Samantha Elizabeth Brown, (audience cheering) Sophia Elizabeth Brown, (audience cheering) Gabrielle Musser, (audience cheering) - Let's go Gabby!

- Jordan Deshaun Greene, (audience cheering) Cameron John MacDougall, (audience cheering) Maggie Mae Kewley, (audience cheering) Tyler Marie Martinez, (audience cheering) Taylor Marie Martinez, Alexandra Pauline Azzam, (audience cheering) Emma Grace Hochstein, (audience cheering) Dani Marie Ellman, (audience cheering) - Yeah Dani!

- Elizabeth Grace Mannes, (audience cheering) and?

And Marlena Pulice.

(audience cheering) - Congratulations to our newest College of Agriculture and Natural Resources alums.

This is a profound moment for each of you and the loved ones celebrating with you.

Some of you may be the first in your family to receive a baccalaureate degree, while others have joined a long tradition of degree completion.

On behalf of Dean Kelly Millenbah and the faculty and staff in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, I want you to know how proud and honored we are to have you among our outstanding graduates.

There is no greater good that we in the academy can do than to mentor and develop those who will forge the future, the future of Michigan, our great nation and the world.

The graduates here today represent the best of the university and make this Spartan proud to call you fellow alum.

Former MSU President John Hannah made this tribute to each graduating class.

"Up until this moment, each of you has had a slowly growing and evolving relationship with Michigan State University.

With the conferring of your degree today, that relationship is permanent.

You and MSU are forever joined."

Please join me again in congratulating the class of 2024.

(audience cheering) In closing, I want to recognize those who are important to our graduates, those who loved and supported them long before they came to MSU.

Parents, partners, caregivers, friends and family, you have uplifted your students in so many ways.

No one can count the number of texts, calls, care packages, or pep talks that got your graduate through the hard times.

This is a celebration for you as well, and I would like you to please stand so that we can recognize your contributions.

(audience cheering) Thank you, and please be seated.

Graduates, I encourage you to give your loved ones a hug today and offer them your heartfelt thanks for all their support.

The faculty and staff of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources share your commitment to our graduates.

Their contribution to our graduates' achievements are essential.

The faculty and staff in CANR are among the best in the world, and we are so proud of them.

I ask the faculty and staff represented today to, represented today to stand and accept our gratitude for their contributions.

(audience cheering) Thank you, and you can be seated.

Please join me in thanking our commencement coordinator, Stratton Lee, for arranging this wonderful ceremony and our administrative staff, Ann Hill and Cecilia Flores, for supporting our students and all of the college and department volunteers who have helped with tonight's event.

I would also like to thank captioner Kelly Werner for supporting our accessibility needs.

Finally, we extend a big thank you to all Breslin, WKAR and Creative Day staff for supporting today's experience.

Now, I ask you to please join me in singing the first stanza of the alma mater, "MSU's Shadows."

The lyrics will be available on the screen, and the MSU Symphony Band, Michael Gabriel, and singer Landon Black will accompany us.

After "MSU's Shadows," we request that our guests remain standing until the recessional of the platform party and the faculty has completed.

The students will finish by singing the Fight Song.

Graduates, please remain in the stands until the marshals signal for you to leave.

Thank you for participating in this joyful occasion, and once again, congratulations to the class of 2024.

Go forward and be the storm.

Go green!

(audience cheering) (slow music) ♪ MSU, we love thy shadows ♪ ♪ When twilight silence falls ♪ ♪ Flushing deep and softly paling ♪ ♪ O'er ivy-covered halls ♪ ♪ Beneath the pines we'll gather ♪ ♪ To give our faith so true ♪ ♪ Sing our love for Alma Mater ♪ ♪ And thy praises, MSU ♪ (audience cheering) (marching band music) (marching band music continues) (audience cheering) (upbeat celebratory music) (upbeat celebratory music continues) ♪ Rah, rah, rah ♪ ♪ Fight, fight, rah, team, fight ♪ (upbeat celebratory music continues) ♪ Fight, fight, rah, team, fight ♪ (audience cheering)