RIVER FALLS – More than 300 students will receive their degrees from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls during the fall commencement ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 16, at 10 a.m. at Knowles Field House in the Falcon Center, 185 Emogene Nelson Ave.

A total of 305 students are set to graduate; 272 will receive bachelor’s degrees and 33 will receive master’s degrees. 

Student graduates have not only invested time and money into obtaining their degrees, but they have often had to persevere through various challenges, said David Travis, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. 

“This day is meant to celebrate not only the talent these graduates have and the knowledge they have gained, but to recognize the dedication these students have shown to obtain their degrees,” Travis said.  

Students work hard and often overcome challenges to graduate, Chancellor Maria Gallo said. Graduation ceremonies serve as a time to recognize their accomplishments.

“Every graduate is a testament to the pursuit of excellence, the power of resilience, and the quest for knowledge,” Gallo said. “Graduation is a time that fills me with joy and pride.”

The event will feature speeches by two graduating students and Psychology Professor Melanie Ayres, the recipient of this year’s Distinguished Teaching Award, the highest honor awarded to a UW-River Falls faculty member.

Ayres is known for her ability to connect with students and to help motivate them to challenge themselves in the classroom. She facilitates participatory learning in her classes, a teaching style that prompts students to take an active role in their education. 

The student speakers are Cailyn Kuechle of South Haven, Minn., who is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in marketing communications and Seth Howard of Oskaloosa, Iowa, who is graduating with a master’s degree in business administration.

Kuechle is a standout in the classroom, as a track and cross-country runner, and as a performer in musical theater productions. She plans to continue her education at UW-River Falls by pursuing a master’s degree in business administration.

Howard came to UW-River Falls in part to continue playing college football. An injury ended his career, but he persevered, becoming a graduate assistant coach for the football team, and after graduation, he plans to find a job coaching football. 

Commencement ceremonies will also be available via YouTube livestream at https://www.uwrf.edu/commencement/. 

Submitted by UW-River Falls