Mayville State University announced on May 9 that Nick Storhaug will serve as the keynote speaker for its upcoming commencement ceremony scheduled for May 15. The event will also feature student speakers Cara Hansen-Thompson of Starkweather, North Dakota, and Bethany Holter of McCanna, North Dakota, who will represent the graduating class. Michelle Kommer, a board member, is set to bring greetings from the State Board of Higher Education.
Larry McGillis of Portland, North Dakota, will receive an honorary Master of Science in Leadership degree in recognition of his leadership and support for both Mayville State University and the local community. The university said that McGillis has contributed as a public school music teacher and businessman and has played a significant role in supporting organizations within the area.
The day’s festivities are planned to begin with a graduation brunch hosted by the MSU Alumni Association at 10 a.m. in the Campus Center Luckasen Room. Graduates Anthony Johnson from Mandan and Micaela Kocher from Crosby are scheduled to speak at this event. Thanks to support from Bell Bank, graduates and their families can attend this brunch free of charge.
Weather permitting, socializing and photo opportunities are expected to follow in Legacy Plaza after the ceremony concludes.
Storhaug brings over four decades’ experience as a Certified Public Accountant serving communities across North Dakota. Before becoming an accountant in 1986, he spent more than twenty years teaching and coaching at Lisbon High School where he led successful athletic programs including wrestling teams recognized statewide. He has been inducted into several halls of fame for his contributions to sports coaching. “Nick and his wife, LaVonne … demonstrate a deep and enduring commitment to their alma mater by paying forward their gratitude for their Mayville State experiences through their financial support for the university,” according to information provided by Mayville State University.
The student speakers have each achieved academic honors during their time at Mayville State University—Hansen-Thompson earned her Bachelor’s degree while working with state agencies; Holter completed her education degree with involvement in athletics and campus organizations.
Mayville State University nurtures an inclusive setting that encourages intellectual exploration, ongoing education, diversity appreciation; belongs to the North Dakota University System; seeks excellence through engaging learning environments; builds partnerships with schools employers communities; holds accreditation from specialized bodies including nursing programs; offers undergraduate master’s degrees certificates featuring hands-on experiences—all according to the official website.
