On the evening of Friday, May 1, the Lukenda School of Business at Lake Superior State University gathered to honor its graduating class at the Senior Dinner event. Held in the Kewadin Casino Ballroom, graduates, faculty, staff, families, and supporters came together for an evening full of gratitude and celebration.
Throughout the evening, speakers and award presentations shared not only academic achievements, but the relationships, support, and professional growth that define the Lukenda School of Business experience.
Award Recipients
One of the highlights from the event was the presentation of awards recognizing outstanding achievement and accomplishments across the graduating class.
Sault Area Chamber of Commerce 2026 Student Achievement Award: Grant Riley was recognized for outstanding contributions to LSSU and the broader business community.
Grant Riley
Outstanding MBA Graduate: Joseph Nolan received the Outstanding MBA Graduate Award in recognition of exceptional academic achievement, distinguished leadership, and a commitment to excellence in the Master of Business Administration program. Part of the inaugural cohort, Joseph is the first recipient of this award.
Joseph Nolan
Outstanding Regional Center Graduate: Allyson Lancour was honored for her achievement as Outstanding Regional Center Graduate, highlighting the accessible, high-quality business education the Lukenda School of Business provides.
Allyson Lancour
Outstanding Baccalaureate Graduate: Tayla Brasier was recognized for her exceptional academic performance, leadership, and personal growth throughout her undergraduate experience at LSSU.
Tayla Brasier
Distinguished Alumni Award: Marisa L. Berlinger was awarded this honor in recognition of her achievements and leadership in business, outstanding service to the profession, and distinction as a representative of the Lukenda School of Business and Lake Superior State University.
Marisa Berlinger
Unique Journeys, Shared Community
A recurring theme throughout the evening was the diversity of backgrounds and experiences that brought each graduate to this evening. Whether through traditional undergraduate programs, graduate coursework balanced with employment, or regional center opportunities, each student’s journey showed determination, adaptability, and personal growth.
Students reflected on the lessons they will carry into the future; the relationships built, challenges tackled, and experiences that prepared them for continued success beyond graduation. The evening showcased a strong sense of optimism and positive momentum as graduates celebrated where they had been and where they are headed.
The presence of friends, family, faculty, and mentors added a deeply personal aspect to the celebration, honoring the many support systems that helped these Lakers reach this important milestone.
The evening provided a celebration of achievement, recognition of excellence, and a transition from student life to the next chapter of personal and professional growth.