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Act now—your donation to local news ensures a brighter, more informed tomorrow. DECORAH — Luther College honored about 350 graduates during its 2025 commencement ceremony held Sunday, May 25, at Carlson Stadium. The celebration recognized not only academic achievements but also deep-rooted traditions, global connections and a commitment to service. Of the graduating class, 152 students earned Latin honors, and 55 were the first in their families to earn a college degree. These first-generation graduates were recognized with a standing ovation, echoing the college's founding mission to provide education for immigrant families and their descendants. As the sun peeked over Dahl Centennial Union, President Brad Chamberlain and other speakers reflected on the journey that began in August 2021, when the Class of 2025 first gathered on the library lawn. "We knew that you would explore, that you would push yourselves, that you would push this community—and indeed, you have," Chamberlain said. Keynote speaker Ine Eriksen Søreide, former Norwegian minister of foreign affairs, addressed the graduates with a powerful message on global citizenship, academic freedom and resilience. She emphasized the importance of building connections across cultures, drawing on historical ties between Norway and the United States and the legacy of Norwegian American immigrants. "You graduate from a college with truly global outreach," Søreide said, encouraging students to become "brave builders" in a divided world. Madelyn Kaasa, a fifth-generation Luther Norse, was awarded the Elizabeth A. and Paul G. Jenson Medal, an honor voted on by peers and presented to a senior who exemplifies service to the college and fellow students. Commencement also included recognition of Chris Norton, Class of 2014, who received the 2025 Young Alumni Award for his accomplishments and influence since graduation. A family emergency prevented Norton from attending in person. Flags representing the homelands of this year's international graduates—including countries such as Rwanda, Mexico, Vietnam and Zimbabwe—added a vibrant global dimension to the traditional academic procession. Since conferring degrees to its first graduating class in 1866, Luther College has awarded 32,388 bachelor's degrees and 231 honorary degrees. This year's graduates join a thriving network of more than 35,000 living alumni worldwide. Stay informed, stay inspired! Newsletter sign up is free and join hundreds of free subscribers who rely on DecorahNews.com for trusted information and fresh perspectives.

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Luther College Celebrates Class of 2025 at Commencement Ceremony