Valley City State University (VCSU) will hold its 11th Winter Commencement on Thursday, December 18, at 3:30 PM in Vangstad Auditorium. This year, 15 master’s degree graduates and 106 undergraduate graduates will be honored.
VCSU President Alan LaFave will lead the ceremony. Macy Fridgen, a Bismarck native, will give the student reflection. She graduates summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in business administration, focusing on human resources and management. Fridgen, an active member of the Viking Volleyball team, has received All-Conference recognition for two seasons and an Honorable Mention All-American award in 2024. She is currently exploring career opportunities in the Bismarck area.
Dr. Nicholas Galt will share insights as the faculty speaker. An associate professor since 2016, Galt teaches various science courses including General Biology and Human Anatomy. He has recently been awarded the VCSU Senior Faculty Excellence Award and the Student Senate Teacher of the Year award. Outside the classroom, he is the head coach of the VCSU Shooting Sports Team, showing his commitment to student engagement.
For those who can’t attend, the event will be streamed live on the VCSU YouTube channel, ensuring that friends and family can celebrate with the graduates from afar.
This year’s commencement highlights the growth of VCSU and the dedication of its students and faculty. With an increasing number of graduates each year, VCSU is making a significant impact in the region. According to recent statistics, North Dakota’s public universities have seen enrollment increase by 3% over the past year, showing a growing interest in higher education.
Graduations like these symbolize not just personal achievements but also community progress. As students step into their careers, they bring fresh skills to the workforce, helping to drive the local economy. The excitement around commencement reflects a broader trend—people are engaging more with education and professional development than ever before.
In a time when the job market is competitive, graduates are seeking ways to stand out. Many are using social media to share their success stories and connect with potential employers. Platforms like LinkedIn have become essential tools for networking, allowing graduates to showcase their skills and achievements effectively.
Excitement is growing as the commencement ceremony approaches. It marks the end of an important chapter and the beginning of new journeys for students like Macy Fridgen. Every graduation represents hope, potential, and the promise of a brighter future.
