Boise State University

12/20/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/20/2025 18:22

University marks 117th commencement ceremonies

Winter Commencement, Morning Ceremony Photo by Torin Alm

Family and friends filled ExtraMile Arena for two ceremonies on Saturday to celebrate more than 2,600 new Boise State University graduates.

In all, 2,683 students who finished their coursework in summer and winter 2025 were eligible for 3,292 degrees and certificates. They join more than 180,000 living alumni of Boise State.

"Remember this moment. And remind yourself that even when you can't quite see it, you're building something bigger. You're building something with purpose," said Boise State University Interim President Jeremiah Shinn. "You're building a life that matters. A community that lasts. A future that others will look at with gratitude and pride."

Makena Chase and Kennedy Cummins were featured student speakers for the ceremonies. Morning speaker Chase is earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Student speaker Makena Chase, Photo by Luan Teed

"College opened my world through the people who walked it with me," Chase said. "Lincoln had his 'team of rivals,' and I've had mine. The people who stood beside me came from different worlds, saw life through different lenses, and weren't afraid to speak the hard truths. So find your team. But please don't be afraid to choose people who challenge your thinking and hold up a mirror when you need it most."

In the afternoon ceremony, Cummins, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, encouraged Broncos to reframe difficult moments as learning experiences.

Student speaker Kennedy Cummins, Photo by Luan Teed

"You will face seasons where you question your worth, your direction, your ability, maybe even your dreams," Cummins said. "You will hit moments where grit doesn't feel like enough. And when that moment comes, and it will, try shifting the question from 'Why is this happening to me?' to 'What is this trying to teach me?'"

As part of the ceremony, teachers Elisa Pharris from Jefferson Elementary and Justin Fritzley from Owyhee High School received the Pesky Award for Inspirational Teaching.

Brandy Stemmler and Mike and Lori Mers were also honored as Silver Medallion recipients. The Silver Medallion is awarded to individuals whose long-term service, leadership or contributions to the university have been significant in advancing the university's mission.

Boise State University published this content on December 20, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on December 21, 2025 at 00:22 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]