Valley Graduates 290; Address Delivered by Secretary of Homeland Security

An overflow crowd and beautiful weather welcomed graduating seniors for the 2026 commencement ceremony Saturday, May 9 at Missouri Valley College. Over 290 graduates received their diplomas at Volney C. Ashford Stadium.

They were inspired by a deeply personal message from the speaker, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, who received an honorary doctorate of laws degree. Mullin was a student-athlete at Missouri Valley College in his younger years, but had to leave college to take over the family business when his father became ill.

Mullin is a dedicated public servant, having also served as a U.S. senator and member of the house of representatives in Oklahoma. He is known for finding common ground across the aisle on behalf of the American people.

Also honored at the commencement ceremony were the winners of the Charles L. Bacon Distinguished Service Award, Julius Kruger and Isabela Harp Gonzalez.

Kruger completed his degree in Computer Information Systems and Business Administration. He has been a member of the Honors College, spent seven semesters on the Dean’s List, been named an NAIA Scholar Athlete, and was a four-year starter on the MVC soccer team.

Gonzalez graduated with a double major in marketing and business administration. She was on the Dean’s List from Fall 2022 through spring 2025, and was a player on the MVC softball team. She worked as a student ambassador and was an intern in the athletic department.

The John McCallum Excellence in Teaching Award was presented to Dean Kelley McKay Fuemmeler, and the Staff Excellence Award went to Brandy Schulte.

“Graduation is like the Super Bowl,” said President Joe Parisi. “We’re sending these graduates out into the world to get jobs after our faculty and staff has worked to inspire them, shape them, mold them, and encourage them. It’s the best day of the year.”