Mat-Su College celebrates 2023 graduation

PALMER — The Matanuska-Susitna College held a graduation ceremony for the class of 2023 at the Glenn Massay Theater Friday, May 12.

Mat-Su College Director Talis Colberg congratulated this year's graduates for their achievements.

"When I look at the class here… I think of our slogan, 'opportunity starts here,'" Colberg said.

There were a total of 52 graduates this year.

2023 degrees included associates in arts, accounting, general business, computer systems and network technology, and human services.

This year's accolades also included numerous occupational endorsement certificates in veterinary assisting and refrigeration and heating.

One student, Samuel Ouelette earned a masters of social work through the UAA College of Health.

Chad Carpenter appeared as this year's commencement speaker, sharing his signature sense of humor with words of encouragement to the graduating class.

Colberg said it was a great ceremony this year.

"I was very pleased," Colberg said.

This was Colberg's final graduation as the campus director. He is set to retire this fall. He said the moment was bittweet because he was saying goodbye to so many wonderful people but he was also able to witness many exciting stages of growth in and around the campus over the years.

"I saw a lot of changes," Colberg said. "The college has been a big part of my life."

Out of all the major milestones in the Mat-Su College history, Colberg cited the addition of the Glenn Massay Theater as the most significant in overall impact.

"Nothing has brought more people to the college than the theater, Colberg said. "This is a place not only for education but a place for the community to come together as a town square."

Colberg spent 13 years as the campus director. He said that makes him the second longest serving director out of a total of 10 individuals.

Colberg said that the UAA chancellor oversees a committee that is working to find a replacement. He said that he plans to help out as much as he can during the transition process.

"I think it's important to move and give someone else a chance to do this job, and it's a great job," Colberg said.

Colberg said the Mat-Su College has played an important role in the community for over six decades, serving as a stepping stone to further education as well as jump starting career opportunities through associates degrees and occupational certifications.

"What has been here for 64 years will hopefully be here for many years to come," Colberg said.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com