An airman in the Wisconsin Air National Guard, Leah Letson found her passion for mixed martial arts and Brazilian jiu jitsu at UWM. The first-generation college student is now a professional MMA fighter who competed the night before accepting her diploma.
“UWM has been the place that has really transformed me from the young, shy 18-year-old into the adult airman, professional athlete and role model that I am today,” Letson said.
Letson double-majored in psychology and criminal justice. She was one of six graduates honored during UWM’s May 2016 commencement ceremonies. More than 3,000 students received diplomas.