VCSU Honors 350 Graduates at 2026 Spring Commencement
VALLEY CITY, N.D. (VCSU) – Valley City State University recognized the accomplishments of more than 350 graduates at its 134th Commencement Exercises on Saturday, May 16.
The 351 graduates from the past year represent the largest graduating class in school history and include 53 graduate students earning master’s degrees along with 298 undergraduate students.
“Your time at VCSU has been marked by growth, achievement and meaningful relationships,” VCSU Interim President Allen Burgad ’89 told the nearly 185 graduates who attended the ceremony in front of a standing-room only crowd. “You have helped strengthen the culture and spirit of this university… We are proud of you and thank you for the impact you have had on the university.”
Tara Dahl, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and is now teaching music in Glendive, Montana, delivered the undergraduate reflection.
“I learned that we are capable of doing hard things,” Dahl said. “This degree was truly a journey – an adventure all its own. I got to be a part of department-wide music tours, incredible concert performances, and the grand opening for a fine arts building. My time here was filled with remarkable highs and the most beautiful part of them were the moments of quiet, hard work that shaped the public events. That same type of quiet work happened in every corner of campus.”
Michelle Kommer spoke as a representative for the State Board of Higher Education (SBHE), reflecting on the meaningful relationships that students and staff build at VCSU. Lindsey Kiecker ‘23, associate professor of science, delivered the faculty reflection. Kiecker related her college experience and post-graduation job search, encouraging the graduates to identify their passion and pursue it – even if it doesn’t match their diploma or transcript.
VCSU has now conferred 28,425 undergraduate degrees and 713 master’s degrees in its proud history dating back to 1890.
Watch the 134th VCSU Commencement Ceremony
VCSU also honored select graduating seniors at the annual Senior Awards Ceremony on May 15. A complete list of seniors who were honored is at the link below.