Record number of graduates honored at Idaho State University commencement May 9

A record 2,561 Idaho State University graduates were awarded degrees and certificates at ISU commencement on May 9 at Holt Arena.

This year’s number of graduates was 111 more than last year, and 327 more than in 2010.

“We are proud of each and every one of our graduates, and we appreciate all the support their families have provided to help them achieve this milestone,” said ISU President Arthur C. Vailas. “Our record number of graduates, and the trend ISU has shown of graduating more students annually, proves Idaho State University’s commitment to the educational needs of the great state of Idaho.”

Eighty-nine of this year’s 2,561 graduates earned multiple degrees and/or certificates so a total of 2,651 degrees and certificates were awarded.

The University acknowledged the alumni accomplishments of the 10 Professional Achievement Award winners, recognized the achievements of the 12 Outstanding Students and announced the 2015 Distinguished Faculty.
In addressing the graduates, ISU Alumni Association President Larry Satterwhite encouraged the students to celebrate this major achievement and stay connected to ISU.

“You and I, despite not knowing each other personally for the most part, become connected today,” Satterwhite said. “We are all Idaho State University alumni. Regardless of where life takes us, the challenges we face and the contributions we make to others, the major touchstone is ISU and the time we have spent here.”

Associated Students of ISU President Taylor Tingey addressed the audience, challenging them to consider what is possible and impossible in their lives.

“Here we stand, ready to take on the world,” Tingey said. “We’ve been prepared with a first-class education from a university we can be proud of. As we enter our future endeavors, be proud of what you have learned and where you have learned it from. And remember, ‘Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.'”

Faculty members recognized for distinguished service by ISU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Laura Woodworth-Ney were Barbara Frank, associate lecturer and advisor, Department of Biological Sciences, Distinguished Teacher; Cal Edwards, law enforcement coordinator and instructor, College of Technology, who is serving as interim director of Public Safety through May 18, Distinguished Service Award; and Colden Baxter, associate professor, Department of Biological Sciences, Distinguished Researcher.

Professional Achievement Award recipients for 2015 are: David Baumert, College of Technology; Philip LaFleur, College of Science and Engineering – Natural and Physical Sciences; Kendal Ray Tanner, College of Science and Engineering – Engineering; Thana Singarajah, Division of Health Sciences; Blanche Badger Willford, Division of Health Sciences – School of Nursing; Joshua Tolman, College of Arts and Letters, Social and Behavioral Sciences; Jacqueline Royston Thompson, College of Education; Anne Staton Voilleque, College of Arts and Letters – Fine Arts and Humanities; Rod A. Davis, College of Business; and Adrian Michael Wong, College of Pharmacy.

Outstanding Student Award recipients for 2015 are Daniel Shelden, Boise, College of Arts and Letters – Fine Arts and Humanities; Ashley Miller, Pocatello, College of Arts and Letters – Social and Behavioral Sciences; Douglas Walker, Pocatello, College of Science and Engineering – Natural and Physical Sciences; Kyle R. Gagnon, Boise, College of Science and Engineering – Engineering; Rick T. Richardson, Crofton, British Columbia, Graduate School – Masters; E. Scott Lee, Rexburg, Graduate School – Doctoral; Kayla Miller, Boise, College of Education; Jameson Bastow, Twin Falls, College of Business; Jakob P. Meng, Idaho Falls, College of Technology; Lindsey Marie Hunt, Ontario, Oregon, College of Pharmacy; Jennifer K. Brooks, Idaho Falls, Division of Health Sciences; and Madeline Woodhouse, Pocatello, School of Nursing.

The breakdown of graduates included 45 Doctor of Philosophy degrees, seven Doctor of Education degrees, five Doctor of Arts degrees, nine Doctor of Audiology degrees, 27 Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees, 95 Doctor of Pharmacy degrees, eight Educational Specialist degrees, 580 master’s degrees, seven Graduate School certificates, 1,243 bachelor’s degrees, 436 associate degrees, and 189 certificates from the College of Technology.

Graduates and friends are encouraged to share their memories on social media using #isugrads.