The week in photos: May 2–8, 2022

Spartan spirit was at an all-time high this weekend as over 9,600 Spartans received their degrees at various commencement ceremonies. Photo by Derrick L. Turner.

Logistics and supply chain management professor Judith Whipple shares a congratulatory elbow bump with Aaron Fong, J.D. and M.B.A candidate. Photo by Derrick L. Turner.

A new teal bench in front of the MSU Library provides a spot to rest, a reminder of important resources and a memorial. The bench was placed in memory of Spartan Tara McMahon, who passed away in 2021 after battling with anxiety and depression. Engraved onto the bench are the Counseling and Psychiatric Services and crisis counseling phone numbers, which McMahon’s family hopes will help fellow Spartans who struggle with mental health. Photo by Derrick L. Turner.

A mountain of degrees eagerly await their recipients before a Friday commencement ceremony. While every graduation is a huge accomplishment, the class of 2022 saw some of the highest GPAs in recent history, as well as the most students to earn an MSU Board of Trustees award for earning a 4.0 GPA, with 181 graduating seniors receiving the award. Photo by Derrick L. Turner.

National and MSU leaders hold up a freshly cut ribbon from the grand opening of the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams. FRIB will be the preeminent user facility of its kind in the world, creating endless opportunities for scientific breakthroughs and opening the doors to discovery. Pictured from left to right are U.S. Rep. Brenda Lawrence, U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, MSU President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D.; U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm, U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg and MSU Board of Trustees Chair Dianne Byrum. Photo by Derrick L. Turner.

A trio of grads join arm-in-arm as they sing the Alma Mater at spring 2022 commencement. Though graduation often feels like a time full of farewells, Spartan friendships are truly forever. Photo by Derrick L. Turner.

Every grad who walks across the stage deserves a little pomp and circumstance. Kevin Sedatole, professor of music and director of bands, with the MSU Orchestra, gave graduating Spartans a symphonious send-off during this weekend’s commencement ceremonies. Photo by Derrick L. Turner.

As the sun set over the last day of spring semester, we were reminded that every ending is also a new beginning. Congratulations to all Spartan graduates, and remember that wherever life takes you, you can always call MSU home. Photo by Derrick L. Turner.