Mitchell Hamline honors newest graduates

“Mitchell Hamline is a much better place because you’re a part of it.”

Mitchell Hamline celebrated the class of 2023 during its commencement ceremony on June 3 at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium in St. Paul. “Mitchell Hamline is a much better place because you’re a part of it,” said President and Dean Anthony Niedwiecki, at the conclusion of the ceremony.

In all, 342 students graduated, including several dozen who completed their studies last winter after the end of the fall semester. The graduates come from 37 states, as well as Canada, Brazil, and eight Tribal nations.

In addition to those who crossed the stage in person to receive their diploma covers, several graduates joined online and were recognized during the ceremony.

Ashalon Goodrich ’23 (Blackfoot Siksika Nation) gave the land acknowledgement, followed by Kathrine Bloom O’Connell ’23, the student speaker. Professor T. Anansi Wilson delivered the charge to the class, and Judge Sarah Wheelock of the Minnesota Court of Appeals was the commencement speaker. Before conferring degrees to graduates, the board of trustees presented Professor Mike Steenson an honorary degree in recognition of his 50 years of service to Mitchell Hamline and its predecessor schools. “I’m now one of you,” exclaimed Steenson to the students before him.