Thousands Walk Across the Stage at Idaho State Spring Commencement Ceremonies

More students than ever have been choosing Idaho State University — this fall the University welcomed a record-breaking first-year class as well as record-breaking overall enrollment. On Saturday, President Robert Wagner reminded graduates that students, from their first day on campus to their walk across the stage Saturday, are the reason Idaho State University faculty and staff work so hard every day. 

“You represent the very reason why our institution exists - you are the focal point of all our efforts,” he told graduates. “As a public institution we fulfill our contract, or our public responsibility, by our graduates who leave this institution to serve, work and enrich communities, support families and contribute to society.”

Saturday’s graduates came from all walks of life. At the morning ceremony, student speaker Ganesh Sapkota told his peers about his journey from Nepal to Pocatello, and how his experience at Idaho State has helped him to learn to take risks. 

“Real growth does not happen when things feel comfortable. So I chose to step forward, not because I felt ready, not because I was confident, but because I didn’t want to look back one day and ask myself, ‘what if?’,” he said. “And that is what it means to be a Bengal. It’s not about having everything figured out. It never was. It’s about choosing to move forward when things are uncertain.”  

Afternoon student speaker and graduate Hadley Bodell said she was touched by how she felt as a Bengal. 

“Idaho State has the special ability to make each and every student feel known, and like they have a place at the university,” she said. “With every new class I stepped foot in, I felt more and more sure of myself that I was in the right place. As cheesy as all of our Bengal taglines might be, ‘Finding your Roar’ here at ISU can feel like coming to a place where you are welcome to learn, grow and be motivated by the people around you.” 

Graduates at the ceremonies were welcomed by family, friends and faculty members. Idaho State University also welcomed and honored several distinguished guests, including honorary doctoral recipients Frank VanderSloot and Linda Clark, and Idaho State Board of Education member Cindy Siddoway. 

Siddoway also congratulated graduates. 

“Graduates, you have earned your place in this moment, and you have earned our confidence in your future,” she said. “On behalf of the Idaho State Board of Education, I offer my warmest congratulations. We celebrate your achievements today, and we look forward to all you will accomplish in the years ahead.” 

Commencement Speaker Randy’L Teton told graduates that their path might not be linear, but that they should be proud of how far they have come and how far they will go. 

“Don’t be afraid of the ‘detours’ she said. “Success is not a straight line. It is a series of adjustments made with courage. As you walk across this stage, take a breath. Look at the families cheering for you. Carry your community with you, just as I carry the spirit of my people in everything I do. Go out and be more than just successful. Be kind. Be brave. Be the storyteller of your own life. The world has been waiting for your specific brand of magic.”