Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley celebrates with the graduates, rejoicing in their achievement as a fellow grad and commencement speaker. Nearly two decades after starting his undergraduate studies, Crowley returned to UWM to complete his degree. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Denis Kitchen, a UWM journalism graduate in 1968 and one of the original “underground” cartoonists in the late 1960s, accepts an honorary degree at the ceremony. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Maranda Brown beams toward family and friends while displaying her diploma. Brown earned an MBA. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Education graduates Jennifer Garcia (center) and Hope Stadel when their school is called up to stage. UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Chancellor Mark Mone and County Executive David Crowley exchange smiles after Crowley officially received his diploma. (UWM photo/Elora Hennessey)
Engineering undergraduates stand and cheer when called on by Dean Brett Peters. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Kaye Van Susteren-Wedesky show off her diploma after receiving a bachelor's in communication. Susteren-Wedesky has been quite involved during her time at UWM, as a campus ambassador and as an intern in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Kristian Zenz shows off his graduation cap featuring a crocheted rendition of UWM’s mascot, Pounce Panther, made by friend and UWM film student Melissa Hernandez. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
After receiving their degrees, undergraduates move their tassels from the right side to the left. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
More than 1,700 students graduated from UWM this fall, with many walking across the stage at the UWM Panther Arena on Sunday to the cheers of family, friends, faculty and fellow graduates.
Graduation day is always a momentous occasion, but for the Class of 2024, it held even more significance. Having navigated the challenges of a global pandemic alongside the typical hurdles of college life, these graduates came together to celebrate their resilience and accomplishments. Surrounded by loved ones, they reflected on their journey and looked forward to the bright futures that lie ahead.
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley delivered the commencement address, sharing his personal journey as a graduate himself on this day. Inspired by his family, Crowley returned to college to complete his long-delayed degree, balancing classes at UWM with his family responsibilities and county duties. On Sunday, he proudly received his bachelor’s degree in Community Engagement and Education, just after delivering his speech.
During the ceremony, Denis Kitchen, a UWM journalism graduate from the Class of 1968 and one of the original ‘underground’ cartoonists of the late 1960s, was awarded an honorary degree in recognition of his contributions.
