UM-Flint to host spring commencement ceremonies, May 3-4

The University of Michigan-Flint will celebrate its May and August graduates during the Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremonies, May 3-4, at the Riverfront Conference Center. More than 1,000 students are eligible to participate. Undergraduate and graduate students will be awarded degrees during four ceremonies involving the university's five schools and colleges.

The commencement schedule is as follows:

College of Arts, Sciences & Education, 11 a.m., May 3
School of Nursing, 1:30 p.m., May 3
College of Innovation and Technology and School of Management, 11 a.m., May 4
College of Health Sciences and School of Management, 1:30 p.m., May 4

SOM will have split proceedings, and those students will be contacted with information regarding their appropriate ceremony. Doors open one hour before the start time. Graduating students are asked to RSVP using the link shared to their university email account. Each graduate can bring four guests.

Students can purchase caps, gowns, hoods and other commencement items at the UM-Flint Bookstore.

The ceremonies will include messages from Laurence B. Alexander, UM-Flint chancellor, and Yener Kandogan, interim provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs.

Student speakers will also share their voices during commencement. Kennedy Lyons, an elementary education major from Grand Blanc, will speak at the 11 a.m. ceremony on May 3. Lani Manners, a nursing major from Fenton, will address the 1:30 p.m. proceedings later that day. On May 4, Leen Yasin, a computer science major from Grand Blanc, will speak during the 11 a.m. ceremony. Blake Ackerman, a business administration student from Burton, will take the podium for the 1:30 p.m. ceremony.

Kandogan said that commencement is the highlight of the academic year for UM-Flint's faculty, staff and administrators. It's a unique opportunity to reflect on the results of hard work and collaboration between students and educators.

"As we approach the Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremonies, I'm eagerly looking forward to celebrating the incredible achievements of our UM-Flint graduates," said Kandogan. "Their dedication and resilience are truly inspiring, and I am excited to witness the paths they will forge as the newest generation of Leaders and Best. Commencement is a time to honor their successes and anticipate the positive impact they will undoubtedly have on our world."

Graduating students are invited to share their UM-Flint experience and future plans at graduates.umflint.edu. Profile submissions are viewable to the public, and friends and family can leave messages of support.

Some of the submissions include:

Vismalou Koon, Master of Science in Nursing

"My time at UM-Flint has been transformative, providing me with a strong foundation in mental health care. I've had the opportunity to learn from dedicated faculty and engage in hands-on clinical experiences that have deepened my understanding of psychiatric nursing. Throughout my studies, I became passionate about advocating for individuals with mental health challenges. Being part of a supportive community of peers and mentors has been invaluable in my journey. I look forward to applying my knowledge and skills in the field, making a positive impact on the lives of those I serve."

Abigail Weycker, Bachelor of Business Administration

"One of the things I've loved most about UM-Flint is how easy it's been to get involved and make meaningful connections. I've had the chance to take on leadership roles, like serving as president of the Society for Human Resource Management and as the recruiting, marketing, and fundraising chair for the Women's Club Soccer team. These roles have been more than just titles–they've helped me build leadership skills, collaborate with others, and gain real-world experience."

Arooba Khan, Master of Public Health

"One of my favorite memories was during International Week when our student organization hosted a cultural exchange dinner. I brought traditional Pakistani dishes that my mother had taught me to make, and watching my American classmates experience these flavors for the first time was priceless! Another special moment was when my classmates celebrated completing our capstone project. We went to a dinner hosted by our professor, Michelle Sahli. After all our hard work, it was wonderful to celebrate together with the professor who had guided us through the process."

Shannon Wallace, Bachelor of Social Work

"I am a nontraditional student who decided to go back to school and pursue a degree in social work following the birth of my son with special needs and seeing how much social workers can make a difference in my son's life as well as my family's. I am so happy I chose UM-Flint. The staff are incredible, and even though the program was 100% online, I feel a connection to the university, staff, and students."

More information about UM-Flint's Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremonies can be found online.