Nearly 550 students celebrated their educational accomplishments at our commencement ceremony on May 19 at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium in Saint Paul. In addition to the graduates, over 2,000 family members and friends came to support their loved ones in accomplishing this big step in their respective personal and professional journeys. 

Michael Blackwood served as the student speaker. He was the president of the SkillsUSA Chapter and graduated with a diploma in electrical technology. In his speech, Michael encouraged his fellow students to focus on what they can control and understand the difference between what they can influence and what they cannot.

You can’t change how your boss thinks of you today. So what can you do to change his mind tomorrow? You have control over how you do your job. You have the ability to have conversations with your peers and superiors. Ask what you can do better tomorrow. 

Michael Blackwood

Student Speaker

President Dee Dee Peaslee shared that SPC’s “family tree” had three branches: its students, staff, and faculty. The faculty and staff have helped students grow, nurtured their talents, and prepared them for what comes next.   

I hope you will remember your time at Saint Paul College with fondness – You persevered, you learned, you grew, and you are now ready to make your mark on the world.   

Dr. Dee Dee Peaslee

President of Saint Paul College

With deep sadness and respect, we honored Surgical Technology student Chelsie Levesque, who tragically passed away in October. Chelsie’s family accepted her Surgical Technology degree on her behalf. 

Automotive Instructor and 2025 Outstanding Educator, Jake Yernberg, asked students to reflect on what had brought them to this moment:  

Many of you overcame unexpected roadblocks, challenges, and hardships.  You rose early and stayed up late in pursuit of your goals. Tonight, we celebrate your accomplishments in education and your achievements in this season of life. 

Jake Yernberg

Automotive Instructor + Faculty Speaker

The Class of 2025 was SPC’s largest graduating class in over five years. Students received awards from across our 100+ programs, including associate of arts, associate of science, and applied associate of science degrees, certificates, and diplomas. 

Check out photos from the event:

A joyous graduate in a blue cap and gown celebrates with arms raised at a graduation ceremony.
Two graduates in blue caps and gowns take a selfie with Sky the mascot at a graduation ceremony.
Michael Blackwood in a graduation gown stands at a podium, addressing a large audience of graduates, all in caps and gowns.
Graduates in blue caps and gowns celebrate on stage, holding diplomas.
Graduates in blue gowns walking in a line under a colorful balloon arch during a ceremony.
Graduates in blue caps and gowns walking and waving, smiling in a ceremony setting with green chairs.
Graduates in blue gowns celebrating and high-fiving during a graduation ceremony.
A packed graduation ceremony with many graduates in blue gowns and caps. The stage has speakers. Chairs are arranged.
Michael Blackwood in a graduation gown and bow tie stands at a wooden podium.
Three smiling graduates in blue caps and gowns celebrate at a graduation ceremony.
Four young women celebrate graduation, wearing caps and gowns. One holds flowers and gifts.
Graduates in blue caps and gowns walking through a balloon arch, with one in a wheelchair.
Five graduates in blue gowns and caps holding diplomas, smiling at the camera.
Graduates in caps and gowns sit together during a graduation ceremony, focused and attentive.
Three graduates wearing blue gowns, caps, and sashes, smiling at a graduation ceremony.
A graduate in a blue cap and gown smiles while being lifted by friends, surrounded by flowers and celebration.
Four young men in blue graduation gowns and caps, smiling and posing together.
A group of graduates in blue caps and gowns standing in rows, celebrating graduation.
Three graduates in blue gowns and caps, hugging in celebration. One is in a white outfit with a gold necklace.
Three smiling graduates in blue gowns and caps, sitting together at a ceremony.
Students in blue graduation gowns celebrate together before a ceremony, one placing a cap on another's head.
Four graduates in blue gowns pose with a blue fox mascot in a large indoor space.
A graduate in a blue gown is receiving a diploma from President Peaslee in academic regalia. Flowers decorate the stage.
A graduate in a blue gown celebrates joyfully on stage, receiving a diploma from President Peaslee
A group of graduates in blue caps and gowns posing together, including Sky the mascot and various accessories.
A large crowd celebrating outside the Xcel Energy Center, with balloons and flowers. People are hugging and smiling.
Two women in blue graduation gowns help each other with their outfits, in a crowded hall.
Watch the Ceremony on our YouTube Channel