Ceremony Information
SPRING 2024 COMMENCEMENT DIGITAL PROGRAM
Ceremony Information
May 10, 2024 at the Broadmoor World Arena
Click here to view the full/printable version of the Commencement Program.
Order of Exercises – 10:00 a.m. Ceremony
College of Education
College of Letters, Arts & Sciences
Dr. Jane Rigler, Commencement Marshal UCCS Marshal’s Club Member*
PROCESSIONAL
Pomp and Circumstance Military March No. 1 in D, Op. 39, No. 1 — Arranged by Joseph Prostakoff — Lecturer/Pianist Kelly McSweeney Zuercher
CEREMONY
Land Acknowledgment — Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Rame Hanna
Posting of the Colors — UCCS ROTC Color Guard
The National Anthem — Visual and Performing Arts Graduate Evelyn Curtis, B.A. in Music, Directed by Instructor Solveig Olsen
UCCS Chancellor’s Welcome — Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet
University of Colorado President's Remarks — President Todd Saliman
Class of 2024 Gift — SGA Vice President Aidan Clark, B.A. in Political Science
Congratulations from 2024 Student Achievement Award Recipient — Graduate Christian Ruiz, B.I. in Game Design & Development
Presentation of Honorary Degree to Apolo Anton Ohno — Regent Callie Rennison
CONFERRING OF ADVANCED DEGREES — Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet and Academic Deans
Recognition of Honors Graduates — Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Nancy Marchand-Martella
CONFERRING OF BACCALAUREATE DEGREES — Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet and Academic Deans
CONFERRING OF ASSOCIATE DEGREES — Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet and Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Nancy Marchand-Martella
Initiation of Graduates into Alumni and Friends Association — Student Madeline Metzger, Students Today Alumni Tomorrow (STAT) Representative
Norlin Charge to the Graduates — Regent Glen Gallegos
RECESSIONAL
Music — Lecturer/Pianist Kelly McSweeney Zuercher
To view Virtual Ceremony videos, visit commencement.uccs.edu/spring24
*The 2013-14 Faculty Assembly created the UCCS Marshal’s Club; the Club selects a Commencement Marshal for each graduation ceremony starting this year going forward.
Real-Time Captioning
All spoken information during both ceremonies will be captioned and made available to follow along in real time from a personal, mobile device. To access this service and follow along during the ceremony, open the browser on your mobile device and enter the following website: uccs.edu/cc. Please keep in mind that data rates from your personal device may apply. Wi-Fi is not available during the ceremony. Captioning Services provided by: Verbit.ai
Order of Exercises – 2:30 p.m. Ceremony
Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences
College of Business and Administration
College of Public Service
College of Engineering and Applied Science
Jian (James) Ma, Commencement Marshal, UCCS Marshal’s Club Member*
PROCESSIONAL
Pomp and Circumstance Military March No. 1 in D, Op. 39, No. 1 — Arranged by Joseph Prostakoff — Lecturer/Pianist Kelly McSweeney Zuercher
CEREMONY
Land Acknowledgment — Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Rame Hanna
Posting of the Colors — UCCS ROTC Color Guard
The National Anthem — Visual and Performing Arts Graduate Evelyn Curtis, B.A. in Music, Directed by Instructor Solveig Olsen
UCCS Chancellor’s Welcome — Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet
University of Colorado President's Remarks — President Todd Saliman
Class of 2024 Gift — SGA President Axel Brown, Master of Social Work
Congratulations from 2024 Student Achievement Award Recipient — Graduate Celine Habimana, B.S. in Nursing
Presentation of Honorary Degree to Apolo Anton Ohno — Regent Mark VanDriel
Recognition of the Class of 1974 — Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet
CONFERRING OF ADVANCED DEGREES — Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet and Academic Deans
Recognition of Honors Graduates — Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Nancy Marchand-Martella
CONFERRING OF BACCALAUREATE DEGREES — Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet and Academic Deans
Initiation of Graduates into Alumni and Friends Association — Graduate Karel Hernandez Bandrich, Students Today Alumni Tomorrow (STAT) Representative, B.S. in Exercise Science
Norlin Charge to the Graduates — Regent Ken Montera
RECESSIONAL
Music — Lecturer/Pianist Kelly McSweeney Zuercher
To view Virtual Ceremony videos, visit commencement.uccs.edu/spring24
*The 2013-14 Faculty Assembly created the UCCS Marshal’s Club; the Club selects a Commencement Marshal for each graduation ceremony starting this year going forward.
Real-Time Captioning
All spoken information during both ceremonies will be captioned and made available to follow along in real time from a personal, mobile device. To access this service and follow along during the ceremony, open the browser on your mobile device and enter the following website: uccs.edu/cc. Please keep in mind that data rates from your personal device may apply. Wi-Fi is not available during the ceremony. Captioning Services provided by: Verbit.ai
From the Regents of the University to the Class of 2024
Dear Graduate,
One of the greatest honors for the University of Colorado Board of Regents, the institution’s governing board, is to be part of this commencement ceremony. Your success is a success for us all. Your degree is a measure not only of an accomplishment of dedication and talent, but also notice to the world that you have the skill and discipline to contribute greatly to any endeavor you pursue.
This commencement ceremony, like every University of Colorado graduation since 1935, will close with the reading of the Norlin Charge. As originally expressed by former CU President George Norlin in 1935, graduation “marks your initiation in the fullest sense of the fellowship of the University, as bearers of her torch, as centers of her influence, and as promoters of her spirit.” Welcome to the ranks of CU’s alumni family, which is over 475,000 strong. Congratulations on achieving this milestone. Well done and well earned!
Cordially,
The Regents of the University of Colorado
Back Row: Callie Rennison, Chair, District 2 (Boulder); Mark VanDriel, District 8 (Greely); Frank McNulty, District 4 (Castle Rock); Wanda James, District 1 (Denver); Glen Gallegos, District 3 (Grand Junction)
Front Row: Nolbert Chavez, District 7 (Lakewood); Ken Montera, Vice Chair, District 5 (Colorado Springs); Lesley Smith, Regent at Large (Boulder); Illana Dubin Spiegel, District 6 (Highlands Ranch)
From the President of the University to the Class of 2024
May 10, 2024
Congratulations, graduates! Today marks a major milestone in your lives. With your University of Colorado degree, you’re well-positioned for the future regardless of which path you choose from here. The entire CU community celebrates you and your achievement, and is rooting for your continued success.
You’re now part of an extraordinary network of CU alumni making significant contributions to their communities, the state of Colorado, the nation and the world. As a fellow CU alum, I have experienced firsthand the transformative effects of a CU education. I know yours will serve you well.
Among the many things you’ve learned during your time at CU is the value of hard work, perseverance, being open to different perspectives, and self-awareness in achieving your goals. Throughout your educational journey you’ve also undoubtedly benefited from others’ support. I urge you to pay this forward. Helping others – in any capacity – is among the most rewarding things you can do in life, and it enables you to be a force of good in the world.
On behalf of the CU community, I wish you success and fulfillment now and in the years to come. Again, congratulations.
All the best,
Todd Saliman
President, University of Colorado
From the Chancellor of UCCS to the Class of 2024
May 10, 2024
Today, the entire university community comes together in celebration of the achievements of the class of 2024. We gather to celebrate your academic success and to honor the extraordinary journeys you have undertaken to reach this pivotal milestone. We are confident UCCS has prepared you to thrive in a complex and fast-changing world.
And we know you have not arrived at this achievement alone. Your peers stand beside you and your support system of family and friends will cheer from the stands.
As you step forth into the world as graduates of UCCS, you carry with you the lessons you have learned both inside and outside the classroom. The knowledge you have acquired here is not merely a set of facts and figures; it is a foundation upon which you will build your future. But remember that learning is a lifelong journey, and your capacity to adapt and grow will be your greatest asset.
Your graduation today is not the end; it is the start of a new chapter filled with endless possibilities. After all, “commencement” means “beginning.” Devote yourselves to becoming lifelong learners and creative problem solvers. And remember to always keep a curious mind.
This is your moment, graduates. I have every confidence that you will continue to make us proud as you embark on the exciting journey ahead. Congratulations, Class of 2024!
With pride and great respect,
Jennifer Sobanet
Chancellor
Golden and Silver Graduates
In 2012, the University of Colorado Colorado Springs began a new Commencement tradition for two very special groups of alumni — our Golden and Silver Graduates. These alumni graduated 50 and 25 years ago, respectively, and helped build the foundation of what our university has become today. We are honored to recognize the classes of 1974 and 1999 at our 2024 Commencement ceremonies — Golden Graduates are recognized at the Spring ceremonies, and Silver Graduates are recognized during the Summer/Fall ceremony.
UCCS operated as an extension of the Boulder campus from 1965 - 1971. In 1974, UCCS graduates were finally recognized in Colorado Springs.
In 1997 a Colorado Springs community referendum merged the city-owned Beth-El College of Nursing, founded in 1904, with UCCS.
Dressed in gold regalia, alumni of the Class of 1974 will lead the 2024 graduates during the afternoon ceremony processional.
Class of 1974 Attendees — 2:30 Ceremony
- College of Business and Administration
- Robert R. Chandler
- College of Engineering and Applied Science
- Michael P. Lohman
- College of Letters, Arts & Sciences
- Gayle Kathleen Berardi
- Ronald Martwick
- Tom Segady
- Sue M. Sumter Williams
Student Achievement Award Recipients
In 2009, the UCCS administration decided to showcase a graduate as the main speaker during the Spring Commencement ceremonies. They chose to designate the speaker honor to the recipients of the Student Achievement Award.
The Student Achievement Award is an annual award that has been in existence since 1982. It is presented during the annual Campus Awards Ceremony to two students who have excelled in one or both of the following areas:
- Made a significant personal accomplishment in conjunction with earning a degree (e.g., overcame a personal barrier, or undertook a special student research project)
- Made a substantial contribution to the quality of student life at UCCS (e.g. served with a student organization, launched a new program or group)
This year’s speakers are:
Christian Ruiz (10:00 Ceremony)
Christian Ruiz is graduating with a Bachelor of Innovation in Game Design and Development. Returning to UCCS after a brief hiatus following his initial experience in 2016, Christian reignited his academic and creative pursuits post-COVID-19 with a fervent resolve. His journey back to academia was fueled by the realization of the paramount importance of following one’s creative passions and the value of embracing challenges and opportunities to fulfill his creative potential and make a meaningful impact.
As the program coordinator and leading actor for the Clyde the Mountain Lion Mascot Program, Christian played a crucial role in rejuvenating this initiative, significantly enhancing school spirit and community involvement. His efforts were not solitary; alongside dedicated UCCS faculty and students, he helped reimagine Clyde’s role, ensuring the mascot became a symbol of unity and engagement across numerous campus events, including collegiate and club sports, Student Government Association gatherings, Student Life events, and initiatives with M.O.S.A.I.C. Beyond the campus, he extended Clyde’s reach into the community, participating in fun runs, fundraisers, school carnivals for at-risk children, community garden projects and parades, thereby weaving the mascot into the fabric of local engagement.
Christian’s engagement at UCCS wasn’t limited to the Mascot Program. His involvement spanned various domains, from hosting events, serving as Vice President of the Game Design Club, and producing the student-created game “Penguin Noir” to acting in student-produced theatre and performing with the UCCS Improv Troupe “The Trolley Problem.”
As he looks to the future, Christian is enthusiastic about continuing to explore new opportunities, take risks and learn from each experience. He believes in finding joy and creativity in challenges and aspires to inspire others through the art of video game design, a field he regards as one of the most innovative and engaging mediums of our time.
Celine Habimana (2:30 Ceremony)
Celine Habimana is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Celine is a first-generation graduate and has been involved on campus through the Chancellor’s Leadership Class, Student Life, Residence Life and Housing and as a Pay It Forward Scholar.
Over her four years at UCCS, she has been an integral part of campus by volunteering her time with various events, including as a facilitator for UCCS lead Game Changer and as a lead member for the UCCS Day of Service. She has also completed copious amounts of volunteer hours with the Care and Share Food Bank, Labor Day Lift Off, Cool Science Festival, Boo at the Zoo with Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and others. She was also chosen as a speaker for the Student Leadership Conference, which is an event that focuses on leadership development.
Celine has also worked as a Student Engagement Leader with Student Life, where she served as a point of reference for new incoming students. She has also worked as a Resident Assistant with Residence Life and Housing, fostering a sense of belonging, individualism, growth and citizenship for UCCS students. Lastly, she has worked as a Patient Care Assistant, which has given her a great sense of preparation as she steps into the nursing field.
Celine believes in the maxim “live today like tomorrow’s desires” and attributes this mindset to all she has achieved. With each and every opportunity she pursued, she lived and believed it was already hers, and this is something she encourages others to do. After graduation, Celine will take a national licensure exam to become a Registered Nurse and hopes to eventually pursue graduate school. Celine is grateful to have been part of the Mountain Lion community and thanks everyone who has left a positive impact on her over the last four years.
Comprehensive Higher Education Program
In 2016, the Colorado legislature passed Senate Bill 196. This bill established a pilot program to develop opportunities for inclusive higher education for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our state. UCCS was one of the institutions given the opportunity to develop a pilot program because of our reputation for excellence and the expertise of the professors and staff in our college of education. The UCCS program is fully established and on-going within our College of Education. Students with disabilities who completed the 54-credit course of study program this spring will be recognized during the afternoon ceremony.
- Grace Arnold
- Makena Bennewitz
- Katelyn Chesser
- Emerald Doyle
Distinguished Service Award – Apolo Anton Ohno
Apolo Anton Ohno is the most decorated U.S. Winter Olympian, a bestselling author, and a captivating speaker.
Apolo’s story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. From claiming his first major speed skating title at only 14 years old to accumulating an astounding eight Olympic medals across multiple Winter Games, he has etched his name in the record books. But his achievements go far beyond the medals he proudly wears around his neck.
What sets Apolo apart is his unwavering commitment to personal growth and his unparalleled ability to transform adversity into triumph. With an astute understanding of sport psychology, he has honed a resilient mindset that empowers him to overcome setbacks and embrace change. This resilience has not only propelled him to the top of his game but has also shaped his life’s mission to inspire others to reach their full potential.
As a New York Times bestselling author, Apolo’s powerful words have resonated with countless individuals, igniting a spark of transformation within them. His journeys across the globe, bridging the worlds of sports and business, have enabled him to guide leaders in cultivating high-performance mindsets and thriving in a world defined by uncertainty.
But Apolo’s insatiable hunger for new challenges doesn’t stop there. In addition to his remarkable athletic and business achievements, he has conquered triumphed as the winner of season four of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” and completing the grueling Ironman Triathlon Championships in Kona in less than 10 hours. Apolo pivoted into the world of entrepreneurship & investment in the worlds of technology and consumer products. His previous experience was GP of the venture firm Tribe Capital, a $1.6b venture capital company based in San Francisco.
Drawing upon his vast expertise and the guiding principles outlined in his book, “Hard Pivot: Embrace Change. Find Purpose. Show up Fully,” Apolo inspires us to embrace change, uncover our true purpose, and unlock the boundless potential that lies within each of us.
Recognition of 2023-2024 Retirees
- Leyna Bencomo (Staff)
- Cheryl Birkelo (Faculty)
- Brian Duvick (Faculty)
- Samuel Frank (Staff)
- Carlos Garcia (Staff)
- Linda Goodwin (Staff)
- James Harper (Staff)
- Mark Malone (Faculty)
- Rita Martinez (Staff)
- Sherwyn Morreale (Faculty)
- Janet Myers (Faculty)
- Stephen Perucca (Staff)
- Thomas Pyszczynski (Faculty)
- Sara Qualls (Faculty)
- Jenifer Robertson (Faculty)
- Jefferson Spicher (Faculty)
- Carole Traylor (Faculty)
- Phil Trujillo (Staff)
- Mark Zamora (Staff)
In Memoriam
- Mia Brown, Nursing, Student
- Linda Bunnell, Chancellor Emeritus
- Stephen Campbell, Custodian, Facilities Services
- Brian Erdek, Exercise Science, Student
- Sam Joseph Knopp, Music, Student
- James “Jim” Null, Professor Emeritus of Political Science and Former Dean of College of Letters, Arts & Sciences
- Maria Sergia Steen, Professor Emerita of Spanish
Broadmoor World Arena Map and Security Information
FOR YOUR SAFETY
UCCS has taken every possible measure to ensure the safety of our graduates, their families, and their friends during our Commencement Exercises. You can do your part by noting the following:
- Once you are seated in The BROADMOOR World Arena, locate the nearest exit to your seat.
- In the event an evacuation takes place during the ceremony, we recommend your party have a pre-determined location outside the facility to aid in reunification.
- Treat all alarms as real.
- Listen carefully and follow any instructions which may be issued by the master of ceremonies, chief of police, fire chief, or other public authority.
- Parents should keep their young children with them at all times.
- Pay particular attention to the safety of any elderly persons or persons with disabilities.
- If directed to evacuate The BROADMOOR World Arena, please move away from the arena and remain outside until you have been given an “all-clear” by a public authority.
- If necessary, seek assistance from a UCCS staff member, BROADMOOR World Arena employee, or a uniformed police officer.
Thank you, and congratulations to our graduates!