Photo by Samantha Davis. Southwest Minnesota State University students applaud in celebration during the 57th annual commencement ceremony Saturday afternoon. SMSU graduated nearly 400 students.

MARSHALL — On a day that students work toward their entire collegiate career with goals to reach and dreams to build a foundation for, nearly 400 graduates walked the stage Saturday afternoon at Southwest Minnesota State University’s 57th annual commencement ceremony for the Class of 2025.

SMSU graduated 384 students, undergraduate and graduate, who will now be joining a family of over 25,000 alumni.

“I am so pleased to celebrate this milestone … It is an extraordinary achievement,” SMSU President Kumara Jayasuriya said in a welcoming speech. “You have worked hard, overcome barriers … You should be extremely proud of your accomplishments.”

The R/A Facility flooded with families, friends and supporters of the graduates, and the ceremony opened with remarks from SMSU faculty, and musical pieces from the SMSU Chorale and Symphonic Chamber Winds.

SMSU senior Samuel Lund took time to reflect with his peers on what the day means, noting an achievement of growth.

“Growth takes us in all different directions. The lessons learned, the trials passed and the long roads that would take us all, only to grow,” Lund said. “Like seeds, different stories sprout instead … When the grass is mowed, it too grows back stronger and greener than before.”

Lund, originally from Buffalo, Minn., earned his bachelors degree in Political Science and Justice Administration, and served as the Student Association President during his time at SMSU.

SMSU also continued its tradition during the ceremony to recognize the Class 2025 Most Outstanding Senior award, given to Marshall’s own Brenna Joy Springborg.

Springborg obtained a bachelors degree in Communication Studies for broadcasting and digital media, and was applauded for her involvement in several campus projects and extra curricular activities while maintaining a job during her studies. She also graduated in the honors program.

Class of 2002 alumnus Ryan Martin returned to Marshall to give the commencement address, sharing with the soon-to-be graduates his experiences and lessons learned over the years.

Martin, originally from Connecticut, was born with spina bifida and had both of his legs amputated at the age of two. During his time at SMSU, he led the Mustangs to the National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) national title game in 2001, and went on to play professionally in Europe.

“Today, I offer you proof that with the right policies and an opportunity, anyone’s dream can become a reality,” Martin said. “Everyone’s disability and challenges are unique, but the obstacles we all face are equally as daunting … I’m here to tell you that you are more than capable with your degree. You have a chance to unlock the light you deserve.”

Martin also noted that while living in three countries, he still looks at Marshall as a place that reflects home for him.

“Be bold, serve generously and embrace failure,” Martin said. “Know that the journey you’re about to mark on will be bumpy. You will have an opportunity to take chances, even when you’re not guaranteed success. Find out what is important to you. When we trip or fall on that bumpy road, just remember to get up and keep going, because the universe is just trying to help steer you towards something greater.”

Commencement also marked Jayasuriya’s last public university duty, as he announced his retirement last month.

“This moment is especially meaningful to me, my wife Sal, and my family,” Jayasuriya said. “After serving six wonderful years, I will be retiring at the end of [this] week, and I just want to thank all of you … I want to say serving as your president has been the honor of my lifetime.”

Minutes before students took to the stage to receive their diplomas, SMSU also recognized other faculty retirements.

Professor of education Dr. Michelle Beach is retiring after 18 years. Dr. Pat Bruce, professor of art, is leaving after 37 years and professor of history Dr. Jeff Kolnick is retiring after 33 years with the university.

After collecting their degrees and shaking hands with the president and university administration with distant cheers from families filling the facility, the graduates returned to their seats to move the tassels on their graduation caps from the right side to the left, signifying the completion of their college journeys.

“A little support does help, and we have a lot from SMSU,” Lund said. “The guidance that SMSU has given us through the faculty, staff, peers and opportunities, have prepared us in many ways to be our best selves, to thrive in any situation and to overcome any obstacles.”