NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University is gearing up to celebrate the achievements of its latest class of graduating students during spring commencement ceremonies at Bearcat Arena. The ceremonies are scheduled to take place on April 26-27, with four ceremonies planned at various times to accommodate the graduates.

According to Dr. Jamie Hooyman, Northwest’s provost and chief academic officer, the commencement ceremonies hold significant importance for the graduates and the university community. Dr. Hooyman expressed, "Northwest’s commencement ceremonies are a momentous time for our graduates, and we look forward to the opportunity at the end of each semester to celebrate their accomplishments at the University, along with the support of their loved ones." She added, "Commencement symbolizes the culmination of our students’ hard work, perseverance and growth – as well as a celebration of the possibilities ahead of them as they leave Northwest."

More than 1,300 students are expected to complete degrees at Northwest this spring and summer, with a diverse range of academic achievements. Around 720 students are set to earn bachelor’s degrees, over 530 will receive master’s degrees, and at least 100 will achieve education specialist degrees.

Preparations for the ceremonies include graduates picking up their caps and gowns between April 22 and April 25 at designated locations. Due to the expected high number of participants, Northwest is implementing a ticketing system for all attendees. Each graduate will have the option to reserve up to seven tickets starting from April 8.

For the convenience of those unable to attend in person, Northwest will provide a live online stream of each ceremony. The university also encourages graduates, families, and friends to engage with their social media platforms using the hashtag #NWGrad.

For further information about the commencement ceremonies at Northwest, including FAQs, interested individuals can visit the university's official website.