Over the weekend, we held in-person celebrations for MU’s spring and fall classes of 2020. These Tigers graduated amidst historic challenges. Using their education and talent along with the networks they built at Mizzou, many went on to thrive despite so many obstacles. It was such an honor to welcome back close to 1,500 of our 2020 graduates and give them the recognition they deserve.

One of those students was Clarke Blodgett, a native of Macon, Mo. who graduated last May with a bachelor’s in agribusiness management. It’s a longstanding tradition that students who embody a certain local tiger reveal their identity by wearing plush paws at commencement. Clarke joined another student, Austin Walker, in signaling that they were the ones in the suit. Clarke is now a district manager for Frito Lay in the St. Louis area, and I was glad to see that he could return to Mizzou and continue one of the many traditions that make commencement special.

We’re so pleased that Clarke, Austin and the rest of our Class of 2020, had this opportunity to celebrate with friends, family and the Tiger community. Next up is the Class of 2021!

— Mun