Lake Superior State University maintains its rich tradition by annually welcoming back a cherished group of alumni, the Golden Graduates, to participate in the Commencement ceremony. Since 2000, these esteemed alumni have been invited to return to campus for a special reception and to lead the procession. This year, we were honored to welcome 15 members of the Golden Graduate Society, who paved the way for the 2024 LSSU graduates.
The tradition of honoring 50th anniversary alumni began in 1996 with the ‘Pioneer Reunion,’ followed by the inaugural 50th Anniversary Reunion of the Sault Branch of the Michigan College of Mining and Technology in 1998, which coincided with the formation of the Golden Graduate Society. The inaugural group comprised individuals who completed their studies at Soo Tech 50 years prior, between 1946 and 1948.
Today, the Golden Graduate Society boasts 124 members. This year, those who graduated from Lake Superior State College in 1974 were eligible for induction. We proudly welcomed new members, including Daniel Card ’74, Stuart Clark ’74, Charles Drake ’74, Jim Fallis ’74, Mitch Irwin ’74, Wendy (Copeland) Lewis ’74, William Rothney ’73, Claudia Tamlyn ’74, and Glen Trochelman ’74.
In 2014, this esteemed group established the Golden Graduate Society Scholarship to give back to the university that shaped their lives. Endowed in 2019, the scholarship is awarded to deserving students majoring in any field, with preference given to those in Engineering or Education. Recipients must demonstrate academic excellence and submit an essay reflecting on their decision to attend LSSU and a unique historical fact they’ve learned about the university.
The 2023-2024 recipient, Kaylin Burton, a senior Biology/Pre-Med major from Sault Ste. Marie, MI, was honored at the Golden Graduate Society luncheon held on May 3rd, the day before Commencement. Many Golden Grads have generously supported this scholarship, ensuring future students benefit from the same opportunities. To contribute to the Golden Grad Scholarship, visit our secure giving site and specify the scholarship in the “additional instructions.” For more information on leaving a gift legacy at LSSU, visit lssu.giftlegacy.com or call 906-635-2665 to start a conversation about investing in the LSSU education experience.
Enjoy these Golden Grad photos from the 2024 Commencement weekend!
