239 reasons to celebrate: One of UNK’s largest graduate commencement ceremonies

The University of Nebraska at Kearney is gearing up for one of its largest graduate commencement ceremonies yet, with 239 candidates set to earn their master’s degrees this May—making up nearly one-fourth of the university’s total 729 graduates. 

Several online and blended programs are also seeing larger graduating classes this year, including 46 candidates in the online Curriculum and Instruction M.A.Ed. program, 21 in the blended Master of Business Administration program, and 17 in the online Art Education M.A.Ed. program.

That’s a notable milestone for a campus known for its strong undergraduate, in-person culture, and a testament to the continued growth and success of UNK’s graduate programs, particularly online.

“These numbers show not only how accessible and achievable our graduate programs are, but also the strength of the support network we build around every student,” said Dr. Mark Ellis, dean of Graduate Studies and Academic Innovation. “We work hard to help students reach the finish line, no matter where they start.”

Graduation is the perfect moment to reflect on the people who helped students reach this milestone.



To celebrate those important connections, UNK’s Office of Graduate Studies and Academic Innovation will host its signature Online and Graduate Student Reception immediately following the ceremony. The event brings together online and master’s graduates with the faculty, advisors, and peers who supported them along the way.

“This reception is one of my favorite parts of the day,” said Megan Geoke, senior online coordinator. “Many of our programs are fully online, meaning we rarely get the opportunity to meet our students face-to-face. Celebrating with them on graduation day makes all their hard work feel even more real.”

Graduates and their guests can enjoy light refreshments, pick up some Loper swag, and take time to personally thank those who guided them throughout their academic journey.

"Many online universities don't even offer a traditional commencement ceremony," Ellis said. "At UNK, we not only invite our online students to campus, but we also create a meaningful opportunity for them to connect in person with the faculty and mentors who supported them."

This story was co-written with ChatGPT. All contents were edited to add a human touch and fact-checked to ensure accuracy.