Commencement Program 2026

Fifty-fifth Annual COMMENCEMENT 2026 MIDAMERICA NAZARENE UNIVERSITY OLATHE, KS

THE MISSION OF THE UNIVERSITY A transformative university that nurtures Christlike community, pursues academic excellence, and cultivates a passion to serve.

THE VISION OF THE UNIVERSITY To impact the world for Jesus Christ through servant leaders recognized for their excellence, integrity, and spiritual vitality.

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COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER Gustavo A. Crocker, PhD, is a general superintendent of the Church of the Nazarene, elected to the position in 2013. He currently serves as chair of the Board of General Superintendents. Among his many assignments, his responsibilities include oversight of the Global Ministry Center, the Nazarene Foundation, MNU, Nazarene Theological Seminary and two other Nazarene higher education institutions.

Dr. Crocker has held various leadership roles within the Church of the Nazarene and other global Christian organizations. His leadership roles have spanned four continents, including Latin America, North America, Europe, and Asia, where he shaped global strategies for compassionate ministries and church growth. Prior to becoming a general superintendent, Dr. Crocker served as the Nazarene Eurasia regional director. He was senior DR. GUSTAVO A. CROCKER vice president for programs at World Relief, a global Christian humanitarian General Superintendent relief organization. He joined World Relief after serving as director of field management for Compassion International, a Christian child development organization. Other career ministry assignments included several years as the administrative director of Nazarene Compassionate Ministries International in Kansas City, Missouri, and three years as the regional coordinator of Nazarene Compassionate Ministries in Quito, Ecuador.

Guatemalan by birth, Dr. Crocker was ordained as an elder in the Church of the Nazarene on the Mid-Atlantic District.

He is a licensed architect with a master’s degree in community planning from the University of Cincinnati, where he attended as a Fulbright Scholar. As a Latin American Leadership Scholar, he earned a Ph.D. in organizational leadership at Regent University. In 2014, Olivet Nazarene University honored him with a Doctor of Divinity degree for his contribution to the development of the global church. He earned the Executive Certificate on Executive Leadership of Nonprofit Organizations from Harvard Kennedy School in 2017.

Dr. Crocker has taught in universities in Latin America, Europe, and the United States. He has guest lectured at several seminaries, colleges, and universities in the United States, Latin America, Asia, and Europe. Proficient in several languages, Dr. Crocker has authored several books and articles in Spanish and English. His writings have been translated into more than 20 languages.

Dr. Crocker and his wife, Rachel, have two married daughters, Raquel and Beth, and one grandson, Maxwell.

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MNU PRESIDENT Dr. Jon D. North is the sixth president of MidAmerica Nazarene University.

Since assuming the role in July 2025, he has continued advancing the university’s mission of scholarship, servant leadership, and transformation.

Dr. North previously served MNU as senior vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the MNU Foundation, where he led fundraising efforts that generated $138 million to support scholarships, academic initiatives, capital development, and operations during his 15-year tenure.

Before joining MNU, he spent 17 years with Heart to Heart International, including serving as CEO, where he helped expand the organization’s global humanitarian and disaster relief work.

Dr. North holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Business, an MBA from MNU and a doctorate in ethical leadership from Olivet Nazarene University.

DR. JON D. NORTH President, MidAmerica Nazarene University

MNU VICE PRESIDENT Prior to coming to MNU, Dr. Abby M. Hodges served as associate professor of chemistry and assistant department chair of biology and chemistry at Azuza Pacific University. At MNU, she quickly took on leadership roles such as chair of the Natural, Health, and Mathematical Sciences Department, then dean of the College of Arts & Sciences until her appointment to vice president for Academic Affairs.

Dr. Hodges is a recognized scholar and researcher in the field of chemistry.

Her research has focused on protein folding and protein engineering, and she has mentored more than 20 students on these research topics. She has also advanced the MNU first-year experience program and chaired the General Education committee for five years. Dr. Hodges was recognized as the MNU Faculty of the Year in 2021.

DR. ABBY M. HODGES Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer

Dr. Hodges earned a B.S. in chemistry at Denison University, then an M.S. and Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Yale University. Her undergraduate research led to her doctoral research at Yale and internships with the Procter and Gamble Research Biotechnology Division. She has published numerous academic papers and holds a patent for modified miniature proteins, leading to many professional presentations about her findings. These experiences have made Dr. Hodges a champion for undergraduate research at MNU, resulting in exceptional research opportunities for students.

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COMMENCEMENT Traditional Undergraduate Saturday, May 2, 2026

10:00 a.m.

College Church of the Nazarene

PRELUDE............................................................................................................................................... Concert Band and Chamber Orchestra Luke D. Johnson, Professor of Music, Director WELCOME.....................................................................................................................................................................................Susan Larson Professor of Nursing PROCESSIONAL................................................................................................................................... Concert Band and Chamber Orchestra Pomp and Circumstance (Military March, Opus 39, No. 1) by Edward Elgar / arr. John Whitney *THE NATIONAL ANTHEM.............................................................................................................................................Christopher M. Smith Star Spangled Banner, Francis Scott Key Professor of Music, Director *INVOCATION................................................................................................................................................................ Rev. Casey McDorman Parent of Graduate PRESIDENT’S WELCOME ..........................................................................................................................................................Jon D. North President of the University Special Address from the Class of 1976 to the Class of 2026.........................................................................................Jon R. “Rocky” Lamar SCRIPTURE READING..............................................................................................................................................................Amy Friesland Isaiah 40:21-31 Parent of Graduate CHORAL SELECTION........................................................................................................................................................... Symphonic Choir Christopher M. Smith Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, by Charles Wesley, arr. Dan Forrest Here I Am Lord, by Daniel Schutte, arr. Ovid Young FACULTY EMERITUS PRESENTATIONS............................................................................................................................Abby M. Hodges Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Mark Hayse, Professor of Christian Education & Philosophy, Director of Mabee Library Dr. Kimberly Humerickhouse, Professor of Education Dr. Gwenyth Wagner, Associate Professor of Nursing INTRODUCTION OF THE SPEAKER...................................................................................................................................... Daniel Rexroth Board of Trustees, Chairman COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS....................................................................................................................................... Dr. Gustavo Crocker General Superintendent, Church of the Nazarene HYMN..................................................................................................................................................................................... Gracelyn Duncan The Class of 2026, Director Chorus: Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the earth hear His voice!

Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the people rejoice!

O come to the Father, thro’ Jesus, the Son, And give Him the glory - great things He hath done!

II. Great things He hath taught us, great things He hath done, And great our rejoicing thro’ Jesus, the Son; But purer, and higher, and greater will be Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.

I. To God be the glory - great things He hath done.

So loved He the world that He gave us His Son, Who yielded His life an atonement for sin, And opened the Lifegate that all may go in.

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AMERICAN HERITAGE AWARD PRESENTATIONS.........................................................................................................Abby M. Hodges PRESENTATION OF CANDIDATES FOR DEGREES..............................................................................................................Abby M. Hodges CONFERRING OF DEGREES.................................................................................................................................................. President North The Class of 2026 *ALMA MATER................................................................................................................................................................................ Brent Crites Words by Dr. Jerry Nelson; Music by Dr. Christopher M. Smith; Arranged by Dr. Luke D. Johnson On a Kansas hill we’ve planted Dreams of hope from heaven’s light; Pioneers’ undaunted spirits Keep the vision burning bright.

The Class of 2026, Director

MidAmerica we laud you, God directs our destiny Like the eagle soaring higher: Ever stronger, ever free.

COMMISSIONING OF THE GRADUATES............................................................................................................................ President North

*BENEDICTION.............................................................................................................................................................................. Brady Braatz University Chaplain RECESSIONAL...................................................................................................................................... Concert Band and Chamber Orchestra Luke D. Johnson Fanfare and Recessional, James D. Ployhar

University Banner Carrier:

Linda Alexander, Professor of Teacher Education

Flag Bearers:

Yorton Clark, Professor of Business Dave Wegley, Professor of Business

Chief Academic Marshal:

Susan Larson, Professor of Nursing

Academic Marshals:

Jill Gonzalez-Bravo, Associate Dean, School of Education Mark Hayse, Professor of Christian Education & Philosophy, Director of Mabee Library

Junior Marshals:

Claire DeBok, Avery Ferguson, Matthew Omundsen, Abbey Prichard

Class of 2026 Representatives: Brent Crites and Brennan Frye

*Assembly standing

DIGITAL PROGRAM

CAPTIONING

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COMMENCEMENT Professional and Graduate Saturday, May 2, 2026

3:00 p.m.

College Church of the Nazarene

PRELUDE............................................................................................................................................... Concert Band and Chamber Orchestra Luke D. Johnson, Professor of Music, Director WELCOME.....................................................................................................................................................................................Susan Larson Professor of Nursing PROCESSIONAL................................................................................................................................... Concert Band and Chamber Orchestra Pomp and Circumstance (Military March, Opus 39, No. 1) by Edward Elgar / arr. John Whitney *THE NATIONAL ANTHEM........................................................................................................................................................... Peter Vessey Star Spangled Banner, Francis Scott Key The Class of 2027, Director *INVOCATION..................................................................................................................................................................................... Todd Frye Professor of Counseling PRESIDENT’S WELCOME ..........................................................................................................................................................Jon D. North President of the University OLD TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE READING.................................................................................................................................Mark Hayse Isaiah 40:21-31 Professor of Christian Education & Philosophy CHORAL SELECTION........................................................................................................................................................... Symphonic Choir Christopher M. Smith, Professor of Music, Director Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, by Charles Wesley, arr. Dan Forrest Here I Am Lord, by Daniel Schutte, arr. Ovid Young ROBERT I. BROWER RECOGNITION OF FACULTY IN PROFESSIONAL AND GRADUATE PROGRAMS...............................................................................................................Abby M. Hodges Vice President for Academic Affairs INTRODUCTION OF THE SPEAKER...................................................................................................................................... Daniel Rexroth Board of Trustees, Chairman COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS....................................................................................................................................... Dr. Gustavo Crocker General Superintendent, Church of the Nazarene

HYMN...............................................................................................................................................................................................Anna Emch To God Be the Glory, Fanny Crosby The Class of 2027, Director

Chorus: Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the earth hear His voice!

Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the people rejoice!

O come to the Father, thro’ Jesus, the Son, And give Him the glory - great things He hath done!

II. Great things He hath taught us, great things He hath done, And great our rejoicing thro’ Jesus, the Son; But purer, and higher, and greater will be Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.

I. To God be the glory - great things He hath done.

So loved He the world that He gave us His Son, Who yielded His life an atonement for sin, And opened the Lifegate that all may go in.

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NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE READING.......................................................................................................................... Lisa Wallentine Colossians 1:9-23 Professor of Business

PRESENTATION OF CANDIDATES FOR DEGREES..............................................................................................................Abby M. Hodges CONFERRING OF DEGREES.................................................................................................................................................. President North The Class of 2026 *ALMA MATER.................................................................................................................................................................................... Sam Olson Words by Dr. Jerry Nelson; Music by Dr. Christopher M. Smith; Arranged by Dr. Luke D. Johnson The Class of 2027, Director On a Kansas hill we’ve planted Dreams of hope from heaven’s light; Pioneers’ undaunted spirits Keep the vision burning bright.

MidAmerica we laud you, God directs our destiny Like the eagle soaring higher: Ever stronger, ever free.

COMMISSIONING OF THE GRADUATES.............................................................................................................................. President North

*BENEDICTION............................................................................................................................................................. Bishop Jack C. Vaughn The Class of 2026

RECESSIONAL........................................................................................................................................ Concert Band and Chamber Orchestra Luke D. Johnson Fanfare and Recessional, James D. Ployhar

University Banner Carrier:

Bob Humphrey, Professor of Business

Flag Bearers:

Linda Alexander, Professor of Education Dave Wegley, Professor of Business

Chief Academic Marshal:

Susan Larson, Professor of Nursing

Academic Marshals:

Jill Gonzalez-Bravo, Associate Dean, School of Education Mark Hayse, Professor of Christian Education & Philosophy, Director of Mabee Library

Junior Marshals:

Claire DeBok, Avery Ferguson, Matthew Omundsen, Abbey Prichard *Assembly standing

DIGITAL PROGRAM

CAPTIONING

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CANDIDATES FOR GRADUATION - 2026 Traditional Undergraduate Commencement, May 2, 2026, 10:00 a.m. Λ =MNU Honors Program

***=Summa Cum Laude **=Magna Cum Laude *=Cum Laude

Ν =The National Society of Leadership and Success Π =Pi Lambda Theta

Ψ =Psi Chi

ASSOCIATE OF ARTS Nevaeh Corryn Fulk Liberal Arts BACHELOR OF ARTS Adrianna K. Adams Criminal Justice

Brent Aron Crites ** Λ Ministry Music Greenlee Ray Cuzzort Criminal Justice Jalee Diane DeVader ** Psychology

Makenna Gail Bachman * Ministry

Gracelyn N. Duncan *** Ν Music and Worship

Ryan Alexander Beasley * Λ Youth and Family Ministry

Accounting Finance

Sage Marguerite Friedline ** Ν

History Bible and Theology

Blayne C. Blevins Marketing

Jenae Danielle Friesland Psychology

Anthony Paul Brandenburg Psychology Sociology

Brennan Edward Frye * Psychology Jayden Tyree Fuller

Jonathon Delano Brown Sports Management

Digital Communication

Rebekah A. Grube ***

Kallie Beth Brown * Ν Business Administration Colton D. Buell * Ministry

Ava Elizabeth Marcum Psychology Sociology Kelbi Lyn Markham ** Elementary Education Kylea Renee Heather McDorman ** Psychology Gianna Luisa McGuire * Δ K Γ Physical Education Dalton P. Medina * Ν Digital Communication Josie Davianne Mendez Graphic Design

Abigail Elise Hands *** Λ Δ K Γ

Elloy Damien Mendoza Business Administration Teralyn E. Meyer ** Graphic Design

Jasmine J. Hendrix * Business Administration

Andrew James Miller * Sports Management

Brooklynne Reese Hunt Youth and Family Ministry

Jordan Marie Miller ** Λ Theatre

Brett William Jackson *** Λ Ν

History

Justin Michael Miller ** Social Studies/History/ Government Education

Giancarlo Cortez Psychology

Jacob Matthias Creswell Accounting

Mackenzie Rose Manthe *** Digital Communication

Garett William Hanson Ministry

Grace Emelyn Conser * Marketing

Elijah Carlton Cox ** Ν Digital Communication

Amanda Elizabeth Lipsett Digital Communication

Physics Mathematics

Speech/Theatre Education

Mary Cecelia Burr Accounting

Kayla Christine Johnson * Music

Caden A. Kaberline * Business Administration

Kaden Robert Francis *

Truman Jay Edward Bessmer Ministry

Gerardo Jimenez Physical Education

Gabriel Fernandes Carneiro

Lawrence H. Ferren Psychology

Grace Evelyn Berlage ** Δ Μ Δ Marketing

SeiHwi David Jeong Business Administration

Zachary William Louis Jones Sports Management

Finance

Ayla Irene Benedict Digital Communication

Ladislao Jaimes, III Sports Management

Cameron Randall Dye

Criminal Justice

Kyle Stewart Belcher Marketing

Amelia Grace Bishop Psychology

Σ =Sigma Theta Tau

Δ Μ Δ =Delta Mu Delta Δ K Γ = Delta Kappa Gamma

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Patrick Shaun Jacobs

Physical Education 9

Kate L. Mook ** Δ K Γ Elementary Education

Enrique Morales Business Administration

Dante Wheatcroft Elementary Education

Alena N. Morris Sociology Psychology

Frank Friesen Wichert ** Ministry

Genesis Sarai Falcon Kinesiology

Antonio Gabriel Mugica Garcia Physics

Sierrah Joanne Williams * Psychology Sociology

Kylee Bryanne Feeback Kinesiology

Diamonique Marie Naert-Jimenez * Digital Communication

Hunter J. Wohler History

Molly Louise Nicas * Psychology

Joseph Keith Wolsztyniak Business Administration

Trenton Levi Peck Youth and Family Ministry

Aleksander Anderson Zdravkovski Physical Education

Pavlina Pelcova Psychology Alejandro Perez Mendoza Accounting Finance Reese Nicol Pipkin History Sara Jessica Powell Psychology Sociology

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE Sage Adele Adam ** Computer Science Axel Ronaldo Aldino Arvizv Kinesiology Nicholas James Allen Kinesiology Sydney Ray Anderson ** Δ K Γ Elementary Education

Gracie May Enochs

Finance

Kevin Richard Ford *** Ν

Computer Science

Cavon Isaiah Gooden-Brooks

Sports Management Joshua Leigh Hodgson *** Kinesiology Devin Casey Holt

Kinesiology

Anna Beth Houk Graphic Design Bailey Page Howard Kinesiology Jenna Michelle Jackson *** Λ Δ K Γ Elementary Education Hayley Marie Johnson Kinesiology

Benjamin Lee Richison Ministry

Jacqueline Bahena Business Administration

Lance Logan Jones

Ava Robles * Psychology

Alexandria Faye Boykin ** Kinesiology

Tyler D. Jones * Kinesiology

Aubrey Kennedy Rogers *** Δ Μ Δ Business Administration Finance

Olivia Lynn Brandt *** Ν Elementary Education

Adia Grace Kennedy *

Nala Darlene Burns Kinesiology

Joshua Killingsworth * Ν Finance

Alyssa Rose Rutledge *** Accounting Kaden James Schmidt Ν Business Administration

Harley Louise Burnum Kinesiology

Lauren Nicole Schneider *** Δ Μ Δ

Tom Theo Kevin Chartier *** Δ Μ Δ Finance

Blake William Schroeder *** Ν

Rebekah Elaine Chelikowsky ** Λ Biology

Business Administration Mathematics Education Benjamin L. Seffens * Mathematics Education Mathematics

Sierra Stanton *** Children & Family Ministry Cobin Daniel Stockstill Digital Communication Tyler Dale Swearengin *** Δ Μ Δ

Entrepreneurship

Thayline da Silva Teixeira **ΔΜΔ Sports Management

Karlie Reagan Chipman ** Elementary Education Justin Brayan Cuellar Kinesiology Axel Gabriel De Jesus * Kinesiology Collin Marshall Downey ** Λ Computer Science Zoey Elizabeth Edwards Kinesiology

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Kinesiology

Kinesiology

Kaiden Matthew Koch

Elementary Education Joseph Edward Lagina ***

Kinesiology Gabriela Alexus Leon *** Kinesiology Hayley Ann Loewen *** Biology Luis Angel Lopez Kinesiology

Avery Carolyn Lowe Kinesiology Gabriella Lorraine Margheim *** Λ Ν Kinesiology

Zachary Matthew Martinez **

Biology

Madison Lee Mays * Business Administration Braedyn Austin Meyer ** Kinesiology Kale N. Nwidaadah Kinesiology Nathanael Scott Oberg ** Kinesiology Obina Chukwuma Ogogor Kinesiology Prince Ayo Okituama Sports Management Brentt Olmo Kinesiology Daisy Gina Orozco * Biology Chemistry

Alexandra Camille Thomas *** Λ Biology Chemistry Keenan Benton Thrasher Kinesiology Sian Dieh Tuang Sports Management Brantyn Jacob Van Dyke ** Business Psychology Landon Pierce Wagler Business Administration Malachi Quinten David Wasson Kinesiology

Gracie Rose Bryan *

Elijah Saintjuste Business Administration Addison Brooke Schroeder *** Kinesiology LaShae Clothilda Smith Kinesiology Tobias Stirl ** Δ Μ Δ Finance Business Administration

Virginia Marie Smith Christiane Liliane Tchoumba Brittney Thompson Tiana Janae Warfield Victoria Ann Weatherford ** Λ Kylie P. Youngblood

Nicholas James Allen

Ethan T. Pritchard Kinesiology

Jenae Elisabeth Rossetti * Ν Elementary Education

Michelle Lea Schneller **

Jasmine S. Alcantara

Alyssa Kristine Birmingham Ν

Aliyah Marie Robinson Δ K Γ Elementary Education

Keona S. Schenck *

NURSING

Nora Jane Powers *** Kinesiology

Laurel Bethany Repka Kinesiology

Taylynn Faith Ruble *

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN

Madeline Jane Angel

Madeline P. Reeves Biology

Stanley K. Rotich

Paige Kathryn White * Biology

Annabella L. Perez Sports Management

Nolan Moses Rankin Business Administration

Alana Louise Rhodes

Kinley Arin Baker ** Ν Alex Kipkoech Bitok Madeline Rose Burr Ashley L. Carter Madison Lee Cole ** Λ Ν Σ Rebecca Ann Dice Charlee E. Hercules Jewelynn Hornburg Caleb Jordan Jenkerson Sydney Vienne Johnson Grace Elizabeth Kinaman * Λ Jalyssa Paige Maker * Jennifer Lynn Mathews Chloe Elizabeth May Nikiwe Emanuela Mongwe Miranda Grace Nolte Karly Sage Norris * Isabella Chinyere Nwasoria Mercy Ochonogor-olaiya John Robert Pass

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The commencement program is a roster of candidates, not an official list of graduates. The appropriate degrees and honors will be awarded to the candidates who have completed all requirements.

CANDIDATES FOR GRADUATION - 2026 Professional and Graduate Commencement, May 2, 2026 3:00 p.m. ***=Summa Cum Laude **=Magna Cum Laude *=Cum Laude Χ =Chi Sigma Iota

Ν =The National Society of Leadership and Success Π =Pi Lambda Theta

ASSOCIATE OF ARTS IN LIBERAL ARTS Angel A. Abubakar Gisele Dubois Anderson

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN MANAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP IN HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION Antoiniece Chanee’ Robinson BACHELOR OF ARTS IN MANAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Leide Diana Almeida Hans * Δ Μ Δ Ν Michael Preston Terry ** Δ Μ Δ BACHELOR OF ARTS IN ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP Carla Renee Mann Amber Guadalupe Valencia BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Emmanuel Arizpe Δ Μ Δ Kourtney Lynn Brown Δ Μ Δ Andrew James Francis Morgan Grace Freese Haley Jean Kauffman Angelica A. Morales

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION UNIFIED Britny Ann Ballenger *** Ν Jennifer Suzanne Beech Devin Renee DePrima Jessica Lee King Olga Karina Leon Haley Roshelle McKay Kayla Crysten Morris BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING Caroline Renea Abbott Esther Aboki Yara Khaled Alsaleh Vivianna Ijeoma Anyanwu Σ Tina Awurabena Appiagyei Carine Flore Azeufack Epse Agueguia Meredith Grace Basham *** Carson Michael Becker *** Grace Lee Bolin ** Eric Brewton

Φ Phi Delta Lambda

Λ =MNU Honors Program

Σ =Sigma Theta Tau Δ K Γ = Delta Kappa Gamma Δ Μ Δ =Delta Mu Delta

Payton Avri Bruce * Elyssa Amara Cabusora Carla Gail Gabison Carangue * Σ Jessica Nichole Caraway *** Hannah Louise Carroll Lillian Amelia Champlain * Riddhi B. Chaudhari Thomas Kimoi Chelulei Katherine Grace Coulter Ebere Denchukwu Ishara Lilly DePaepe * Justin Robert Doebele Bethany Peace Earla Riley Elizabeth Ervin Catherine Rose Faimon Natasha Hilal Frisch Sanoudje Gama Tegyanem Dama Gizaw Brittany Paige Hanson Gracia Catherine Sarah Harmon Rakeita Dawnyea Harris Kristine Joy Herman Courage Aisosa Idahosa Sophie Jaeger Lillian Elizabeth Jordan *** Dayana Doudoune Jules Faith Njeri Kahiu Heba Ammar Khalifa * Judith Achieng Kopiyo Ryan John Korinek *** Σ Hannah Mackenzie Kreisel ** Adelaide Elizabeth Laing * Σ Natalie Majidi Ericka Esmeralda Marquez Ella Joyce Marshall * Shaun Ryan Mazzio Drake Elliott Mitchem * Natalia Moreno Grayson Nicole Murphy Cindy Iga Nansamba Taylor Aryn Nash Lauren Paige Oehm * Σ Temisan Nwamaka Omare Gloria Osei Tutu Clara Pope ** Maya S. Qarini Wynter Marie Rau Emma Kathleen Reeder * Σ 12

Kelley Joy Irene Rocha Maryssa Ann Rollin * Glarius K. Rop Tirzah Joy Scholten * Kassidy Leigh Schultz ** Sophie Karolyn Scott Alyssa Rae Sebol Kayley Ryan Sides Rogi Alexei Solorzano ** Husam Yousef Issa Sowaity Alexandra Cecelia Stevens Mariama Sumaila Lily Marie Thompson Carine Touko Rachel Nha Nhu Tran *** Σ Crystal Trevino Wilson B. VanBlarcom * Schyler Vining Sally Kieu Vy Vo ** Σ Stella Njeri Wamui George Karanja Wanjiku Ella Kate Wedergren ** Iasha Maria Williams Olivia Katherine Wortman Danayt Teklebrhan Zegeye * Σ Luke Aidan Zegunis

Graduate Programs next page.

MASTER OF ARTS IN COUNSELING Mateo N. Anderson Χ Mikaela Ashworth Χ Allison Baker Χ Hannah Marie Behrman Χ Rachell Ann Marie Black Rebecca Bottini Χ Sarah Katherine Bowling Χ Sydney Christine Boyack Χ Stephanie Cabral Marshall T. Campbell Helen Dione Cheadle Danyel Jade Crispin Χ Dawson W. Crist Sarah Cruz Monteiro Χ Kendra Kaye Dudasko Χ Lily Dykes Shannon Christine Frye Danae Fultz Χ Sara Glenn Nathan Eric Graber Χ Stephen R. Greer Χ Sarah Elizabeth Harr Katerina Susan Hempfling Mindy L. Higgins Χ Matthew Mark Hrabar Regina Isabella Inglin Katie Lynn Johnson Χ Lucy Katter Jennifer Klindworth Χ Lindsey Marie Leach Χ Steven Michael Lee JoAnna Marie Leonard Χ Andrew Lucas Χ Kelly Ann Marquette Michael Dominick Martinez Rick Jeremy McGregor Miranda Mills Χ Maya Camille Morrow William H. Munsterman Χ Keighlan Grace Nguyen Joy Owen Matthew Jon Penner Morgan Maureen Ralph Carolina Y. Ritchie Χ Tehya Inez Robles Χ Kristen Rodgers Nathan Andrew Sanders Paige Schunk Χ Falak Jamie Shariqah Χ Stephanie Moller Simpson Χ Olivia Laila Stour Χ Calla A. Summers Χ Caitlin Marie Termini Χ Jacquelyn Thompson Χ Maximilian John Thooft Ashtyn R. Tracy Χ Cuong (Loren) Tran

Zoe Maize Trent Jackie Cortez Vaughn I Χ KaMille Washington Χ Nadia Lauren Weaver Χ Sara Elizabeth Wile Χ Leah Wray Χ MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Hani Wa’el Jalal AlKarmy Δ Μ Δ Jayson Allman João Victor Aragão Mascarenhas do Nascimento Seyenna Alysia Cavazos Owen Deane Chaffin Fredrick Munyao Mwende Jhonatan Rendon-Garcia Linda Wanjiru Wambugu MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MANAGEMENT Carl Edward Lehman Δ Μ Δ Naomi Wambugi Mbogo Tre’Matt Anthony Pledger Nicolas Théberge Donald Grant Ward Gloria Wheaton MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING AND MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION - DUAL DEGREE Amber Philbrick MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING Jessie Brooks Rebecca Marie Cook Katharine-Elizabeth Victoria Couchman Mary L. Edwards Rehana Lalani Valerie McFarland Mulugeta Assefa Reda Lindsay J. Roberts MASTER OF EDUCATION SECONDARY EDUCATION Zoe Burkholder Alan Joseph Sharpe Joshua Steven Tommaso MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION UNIFIED Garrett James McNally Jennifer Leigh Nolan The commencement program is a roster of candidates, not an official list of graduates.

The appropriate degrees and honors will be awarded to the candidates who have completed all requirements.

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THE CLASS OF 1976 Margaret D. (Harlow) Ackelson Philip W. Arbuckle Daniel M. Arnold Vera M. (Powell) Asplund Leatrice D. (Tomoson) Atwood Shirley J. Barthelman* Randell E. Beckum Jane E. (Grosvenor) Behrens Donald H. Bell Lorrie J. (Cin) Bezinque R. Scott Bezinque Edgar D. Bibb Darrell D. Bisel Carl R. Black David R. Blowers Mary Jo (Jenkins) Bolerjack Patricia J. Bollinger Linus H. Brandt Keith W. Branham Darlene K. (Blowers) Brooks Michael A. Brooks Richard L. Brown John R. Bubbico Jenifer L. (Songer) Bungert William J. Burns* Carol I. (Franklin) Caughron* Edward B. Chamberlain William G. Clair* Tanya D. Coons-Redig Kay M. (Burgat) Cooper Ronald L. Cooper Michael R. Cork Linda (Frizzell) Cornelsen D. Pauline Cramer Nora L. (Garvin) Crist Kenneth M. Davis David L. DeBord Debra A. (Hamilton) DeBord Susan J. (Lunn) Denham Philip M. Duffy Cheryl K. (Crenshaw) Dugas E. Marvin Duggins*

Martin H. Dunlap Sylvia E. (Stevens) Emrich Ardith E. (Pleyer) Eyring June E. (Boese) Farias Chris E. Fosback Daniel L. Francis Brenda C. (Towns) Gaines Calvin L. Gilbert Jerry E. Gipe J. Thomas Granger Bill H. Grigory Theresa L. (Maynard) Grigory Joyce K. Hafner Phil Halseide Malia K. Hammerstrom Patricia (Canaday) Harris Thomas E. Harvey* Marcy L. (Buechler) Henges Judy L. (Hill) Henrichs Judy M. (Neer) Hicks Leanna S. (Brooks) Higgins Donna G. Holmes Jennifer (Stilfield) Hufft Marsha J. (Howk) Hull Robert E. Hull* Sammy L. Hunsaker Carmen S. (Bradbury) Huntington* Robert W. Hurlbut* Diana R. (Taylor) Irving David W. Jackson David L. Jennings Wayne A. Johnson Joy L. (Dace) Jones Melvin D. Karges Rand P. Kell W. Roy Kemp James H. King* Arthur H. Knettle* Kristen G. (Gilbert) Knoettgen Lonnie L. Kohler Linda L. (Smith) Kruse Marvin E. Lake

Jon R. Lamar Julie R. Leitner William R. Leseberg* John W. Lewis Susan K. (Waybright) Lewis Cheryl L. Livingston Larry C. Lott* Samuel W. Lyle Timothy M. Lytle Beverly C. MacCallum Charlene (Estebo) MacCallum Cheryl M. Macoy* Jacquelyne M. (Herbold) Main Michael D. Major Shirley A. (Hendley) Marvin William H. Maybee Randall R. McCall Mark W. McCuistion Verla R. McCullough Linda M. (Olson) McCutchen Richard S. McLaughlin* Linda J. (Bolerjack) Mealiff Linda S. (Zurcher) Mosier Crayton L. Moss James D. Mullins Lana S. (Jones) Murray* Connie S. (Ring) Nash David W. Nash Dean E. Nelson Eugene J. Nelson* Marcia B. (Ranum) Nelson Beverly A. (Smith) Neufeld Carolyn S. (Wilds) Odom Robert A. Orr Jim Orsak Gretchen L. (Songer) Partrich David M. Persell Cynthia G. (Brooks) Phelps Cindy I. (Behrens) Potter Steven R. Potter Stephen R. Proffitt* Rodney L. Radcliffe

Melissa A. Reilly Claudia L. (Whitworth) Reinfelds Janice E. (Bellman) Reusch Sharon K. (Lardie) Rhodes Jane K. (Morgan) Rice Martha V. (Schultheiss) Roberts Michael A. Rogers Terrill L. Rose Ronald J. Seager Kathy S. (McVay) Sell H. Raymond Sims Brenda K. (Zimmerman) Snook Pamela B. Spohn Frederick J. Stasser Chris J. Stathis Sharon R. (Gering) Steffler David G. Steinmetz Donald G. Strohmeyer M. Kent Stroman Ronald L. Sullivan Mary Lou (Miller) Tabers Deborah L.(Aldrich) Taylor Diane M. (Rach) Thomas O. Timothy Trabert David A. Tuller Delores J. Ulses Ruth Ann (Strunk) Van Loan George E. VanDyne Karen R. (Pollard) Vaverka* Susan E. (Young) Warren Charles K. West* D. Denise (Teegarden) White Earl B. Whittaker* Brenda L. (Russell) Whitten Roger D. Willard* Jimmie D. Williams LeAnna (McGettrick) Wilson Patricia K. Woods* Wayne A. Yust

* Deceased 14

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Iowa District Rev. Timothy W. Carter District Superintendent Rev. Matt A. Selden Mrs. Brenna M. Selden

Missouri District Dr. Timothy Brewer District Superintendent Rev. Samuel D. Sprunger Dr. Philip D. Speicher

At-Large Dr. Daniel D. Rexroth

Joplin District Rev. Phillip A. Rhoades District Superintendent Dr. Larry D. McIntire Rev. Kyle J. Rogers

Nebraska District Rev. Dustin L. Ledford District Superintendent Dr. Deanna L. Edwards

NYI Representative Rev. Frederick B. Toomey, Jr.

Kansas District Rev. R. Kendall Franklin District Superintendent Rev. Jay E. Bessmer Mrs. Jolene M. Ibarra Mrs. Angela M. Meinke Kansas City District Rev. W. Kyle Poole District Superintendent Dr. Clark G. Armstrong Dr. Chad B. Cook Dr. LeEtta J. Felter Dr. Branson C. Roberts, Jr.

Prairie Lakes District Dr. Steven P. Hoffman District Superintendent Mr. Alan D. Carlson Rev. Jeffrey G. Chaffin

Alumni Association Dr. Andrew L. Speicher

President Dr. Jon D. North

At-Large Mr. Brent A. Barkman Dr. Wendy M. Belcher Dr. Timothy J. Buchanan Mr. Ervin L. Cash Rev. Marcos Cisneros Dr. Merrill R. Conant Mr. John C. Dahl Rev. Kevin D. Donoho

PRESIDENT’S CABINET Jon D. North

President

Darrel W. Anderson

Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer

G. Todd Garrett

Vice President for University Advancement & Athletics

Abby M. Hodges

Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer

Stephen S. Jin

Vice President for Enrollment, Marketing & Communications

Daniel S. Rincones

Vice President for Student Development

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ACADEMIC PROCESSION The modern academic procession reflects traditions inherited from the medieval universities. Academic dress is worn today on significant academic occasions to symbolize the world of scholarship. In the Commencement ceremony graduates are visibly received into the academic community. The dignity and meaning of academic costume is protected by a national code adopted in 1895 and revised in 1932.

ACADEMIC REGALIA. The familiar “mortarboard” is made of black cloth with a tassel the color of the wearer’s “faculty” or discipline.

Doctors in all fields may wear a gold tassel. A Bachelor wears a simple gown with pointed sleeves; a Master’s gown has long, closed sleeves with a slit at the arm or wrist; and a Doctor wears a very full gown with billowing sleeves. In addition, the Doctor’s gown has velvet panels on the front and three velvet bars on each sleeve, which may be of black or the color distinctive of the discipline. The color of the velvet border on the hood signifies the discipline of the degree, while the color of the interior lining identifies the institution, normally by its colors.

For all tassels and hoods, some of the colors representing the disciplines include green - medicine; white - arts, letters, humanities; pink - music; drab - commerce, accountancy, business; apricot - nursing; royal blue - philosophy; light blue - education; sage green - physical education; brown - fine arts; golden yellow - science; lemon - library science; and scarlet - theology.

HONORS GRADUATES are distinguished by the wearing of a red honor cord. Graduates of MNU’s Innovation Academy are distinguished by wearing a red, white, and blue double chords.

Graduates in an Honor Society wear honor cords representative of the Honor Society: Delta Mu Delta - Gold and Purple; Psi Chi - Blue and Silver; Pi Lambda Theta - Gold; Chi Sigma Iota - Blue and White; Sigma Theta Tau - Purple and White Cords/Stole; National Society of Leadership and Success - Gray; Delta Kappa Gamma - Red and Gold.

JUNIOR MARSHALS are among the highest ranking students not graduating who have earned at least 80 semester hours and met the University’s residency requirement in the traditional undergraduate program.

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