Commencement 2008

Utah State University Brigham City held their 16th Commencement on Friday, April 18, 2008, at the Box Elder High School.  Dr. Andy Shinkle, Executive Director of the Utah State University Brigham City Regional Campus, conducted the commencement proceedings.  Associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees, as well as Administrative Supervisory Certificates and Utah Mathematical Endorsement Project certificates were conferred upon 87 graduates.

Utah State University President Stan L. Albrecht delivered the commencement address. He stressed the importance of education and related how his mother, who did not obtain much education, insured that all six of her children received a university education.

Ami Israelsen and KayAnn Tingey were student commencement speakers. Ami encouraged students to never give up in pursuing knowledge. She mentioned that her first lesson, learned early in her university experience, was “everything taught in Dr. Shinkle’s class is important.” KayAnn admonished her fellow graduates to “say yes” for it is by “saying yes” one will gain experience and learning throughout life.

Graduates, family, friends, and dignitaries were delighted with the beautiful strains of the National Anthem sung by Melody Maddock, a student majoring in elementary education and early childhood education. She was accompanied by Alice Ann Gerhardt on the flute and Shirley Davies on the piano. Alice Ann Gerhardt, a student majoring in elementary education, later filled the auditorium air with the unforgettable melody of “My Heart Will Go On.” She was accompanied by Shirley Davies on the piano.

This year’s graduates included a veteran of the Afghanistan War, Josh Gabriel; two valedictorians – Tonya Waldron of the Department of Elementary Education, and Laurie Wise of the Department of Psychology. Also included were the first six graduates from the Students with Children Program. These students brought their children with them as they earned their associates in general studies. All six plan on continuing to further their education by seeking bachelor’s degrees.

Congratulations Utah State University Brigham City 2008 graduates. You are setting an excellent example for future students, your families, and friends. Best wishes and much success to you in your future endeavors.