Mat-Su College graduation is Friday

PALMER — Mat-Su College begins a new chapter in its history when nearly 180 degrees, certificates and occupational endorsements will be awarded during commencement ceremonies at 7 p.m. on Friday in the new Glenn Massay Theater.

In past years, graduation took place off campus at locations such as the Mat-Su Career and Technical School, the site of the 2014 commencement ceremony.

Mat-Su College Director Talis Colberg said he’s pleased to announce that Fran Ulmer, former lieutenant governor and University of Alaska Anchorage chancellor, has accepted the invitation to be the 2015 commencement speaker.

“Chancellor Ulmer was our leader, and we are excited about her willingness to come and speak at our graduation ceremony,” Colberg said. “She has always been an enthusiastic supporter of this college and students everywhere in the system. It is a privilege to have someone of her stature on campus.”

The student speaker is Holly Rudder, who earned both dean’s list and chancellor’s list academic achievements while working full-time and raising three children, ages 1, 6 and 7.

Leading university dignitaries will be present, including Board of Regents member Gloria O’Neill and University of Alaska President Pat Gamble.

“President Gamble has a complex job managing 16 campuses, and it is a special honor to have him select our campus as one where he will participate in the ceremony,” Colberg said.

Doors open at 7 p.m., and ceremonies begins at 7:30 p.m., with music by the Mat-Su Concert Band.