President’s Column: Commencement – A Celebration of Achievement with Distinguished Speakers
Photo: Dr. Nicholas Galt, left, and student Grant Larson will speak at VCSU’s Commencement Ceremony on May 17.
By Dr. Alan LaFave, President of VCSU
When I consider the multitude of events and activities held each year, none rise to the level of significance as the annual commencement activities. Valley City State University will celebrate the achievements of its graduating class on Saturday, May 17, at 10:00 a.m. inside the W.E. Osmon Fieldhouse. The faculty and staff will be in full academic regalia. Pre-commencement music will be presented by the VCSU Concert Band, conducted by Mr. Jerrold Heide, and special music – including leading the National Anthem, special music selection, and Alma Mater – will be provided by the VCSU University Singers, under the direction of Heather Aune.
Each year, our commencement exercises feature a student speaker, faculty speaker, and remarks from one of the State Board of Higher Education members. This year’s ceremony will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including student speaker Grant Larson, faculty speaker Dr. Nicholas Galt, and State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) member Curtis Biller.
Grant Larson, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Education in Elementary Education, will deliver the student address. Hailing from a farm near Leeds, N.D., Larson is the fourth generation in his family to pursue a career in teaching. Throughout his time at VCSU, Larson demonstrated a deep commitment to both his studies and his campus community. He served as president of the Trap Club, spearheading the addition of VCSU Shooting Sports as a competitive club sport. Larson was also involved in the Fisheries Club, Wildlife Club, and Chi Alpha, and he was named 2024 Homecoming King. Additionally, Larson worked as a resident assistant, served on various student committees, and led as a New Student Orientation leader.
After completing his student teaching at Washington Elementary in Valley City under the mentorship of Katie Gordon, Larson will begin his teaching career as a 6th grade history teacher at Watford City Middle School in Watford City, N.D. His legacy of service and leadership will be long remembered.
Our faculty members help mentor and guide students through their programs of study. One of our outstanding faculty, Dr. Nicholas Galt, an associate professor of science, will serve as the faculty speaker. Galt, who joined the university in 2016, holds a Ph.D. in biology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Known for his passion for both teaching and mentoring, Galt recently received recognition as the VCSU Senior Faculty Excellence Award winner and the Student Senate Teacher of the Year. He is also deeply involved in campus life, serving as the head coach of the VCSU Shooting Sports Team and as the advisor for both the Trap Club and the Pre-Professional Club.
Dr. Galt’s dedication to student success extends far beyond the classroom, as he actively supports students in their academic and extracurricular pursuits. He resides in Valley City with his wife, Jessica, and their young family.
Curtis Biller, a member of the State Board of Higher Education, will also address the graduates. As a key figure in the governance of higher education in North Dakota, Mr. Biller will share insights on the role of education in shaping future leaders and the impact of VCSU graduates in their communities and beyond.
This year’s commencement ceremony promises to be an inspiring and memorable occasion, celebrating not only the academic achievements of the graduates but also the collective spirit of the VCSU community. We congratulate all our graduates and are excited to share this important rite of academic passage with their families and friends who will be in attendance. We know this year’s graduating class will be successful and will make a positive impact on the workforce of North Dakota.
Go Vikings!