Aggie graduates and guests will hear reflections rooted in resilience, leadership, and student success from honored guests and commencement speaker Nathan Nicklas at the upcoming University of Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture commencement.
The graduation ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 7, at 1:30 p.m., at the Curtis Memorial Community Center, 201 Garlick Avenue. A public reception will follow at the same location.
The interim executive director of NCTA, Kelly Bruns, PhD, invites the public to share this significant milestone in the graduates’ lives and celebrate alongside students, families, and friends. University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold, IANR Harlan Vice Chancellor and Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Tiffany Heng-Moss, PhD, and Nebraska Regent Kathy Wilmot will join in the ceremony.
“This class has faced real challenges beyond the classroom—personal loss, stepping up during devastating wildfires, and navigating uncertain times in agriculture,” Bruns said. “Through it all, they’ve stayed focused, supported their communities, and built the confidence and skills to move forward. That’s something worth celebrating, and we invite the public to join us in recognizing the Class of 2026 and the impact they are prepared to make.”
Commencement speaker Nathan Nicklas, resident life manager at NCTA and a Curtis native, has strengthened student life by improving programming and fostering a supportive campus culture. Known for his accountability and consistency, he is a trusted presence for students and a mentor committed to their success.
Before graduation, campus visitors are welcome to a luncheon buffet in the Student Union on Thursday between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The meal price is $10.19 per person, including tax.
On Wednesday, May 6, the Phi Theta Kappa induction ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. at the Nebraska Agriculture Industry Education Center on campus.
