May 20, 2023, was a momentous day for the nearly 350 graduates who participated in Moraine Park Technical College’s commencement ceremony, held at the Fond du Lac High School Field House. In all, the College had nearly 800 graduate candidates eligible to receive their associate of applied science degrees and technical diplomas.
Dave Ertmer, chief operating officer at West Bend Mutual Insurance, served as the 2023 keynote speaker. He encouraged graduates to approach the future with optimism and purpose, take risks, reflect and stay inspired.
Keegan Schwab, Moraine Park’s Student of the Year and 2023 graduate, was the student commencement speaker. Schwab graduated from Moraine Park’s Paramedic Technician program.
“Graduating college marks the end of an important chapter of our lives,” Schwab said. “A time of meeting new people, making new friends, and spending time pursuing a common goal. Now, we get to celebrate that goal. We have worked extremely hard to get here, and today is just the beginning.”
Dr. James Eden, vice president of Academic Affairs, presided over the presentation of candidates with the conferring of degrees and diplomas done by Moraine Park President Bonnie Baerwald. Lane Holte, dean of General Studies, Barb Jascor, dean of Health and Human Services, and Bobbi Fields, dean of Applied Technology and Trades, announced the graduate candidates.
Tyler Soto, a 2016 graduate from Moraine Park’s Human Resources program, served as the 2023 alumni speaker. Soto is currently the human resource manager for Whisker, an innovative pet technology company in Fond du Lac.
“You are entering the workforce at a great time,” Soto said. “Businesses are flourishing, investing in their people and wanting employees with real-world experiences. This is an excellent opportunity for you to show them what Moraine Park has given you. Aim high and do not settle for less.”
President Baerwald congratulated the graduates and extended her personal gratitude to the commencement speakers, Moraine Park District Board, Moraine Park faculty and the President’s Cabinet.
“Today we are gathered to honor the students of the graduating class of 2023–the students whose desire for learning and aspirations for a better life led them to enroll at Moraine Park,” President Baerwald said. “Our graduates are the key to our community’s highly trained workforce and future economic growth. Our community and our state could not move forward without you.”
Congratulations Class of 2023!
