COE Graduation-Related Student Speakers

Jade Christiansen has been selected to serve as the undergraduate student commencement speaker, representing the College of Education for the May 7^th ceremony.

A native of Spooner, Wisconsin, Jade is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. During her time at Minnesota State University, Mankato, she was involved with the Teachers of Tomorrow and the Learning Communities. Jade conducted her student teaching with the St. Peter School District.

When asked what drew her to elementary education, Jade explained, “I grew up with a lack of representation of teachers of color throughout my K-12 experience. I hope and strive to provide all students with a space in which their voices are heard.” While attending Minnesota State University, Jade valued the connections that she made. “I enjoyed meeting people at MSU who have helped me become the educator I hoped to be. There are many faculty and staff at the university who genuinely want the very best for the students and who provide support and mentorship.”

A fond memory that Jade has while attending Minnesota State University is delivering goodie bags to Franklin Elementary School. “Usually, the Education learning communities put on a carnival at Franklin, but due to COVID-19, we were unable to do so in 2020. One of my learning community students had an idea that then led to the Education learning communities collaborating, organizing, and putting together goodie bags for the students of Franklin. Being able to show the students we were thinking of them provided an awesome feeling!”

For individuals considering a career in elementary education, Jade advises, “Being an educator involves regular self-reflection, so it is important to begin practicing that as early as possible. Additionally, I would suggest finding opportunities in which you can get involved in settings and activities for elementary-aged students.”

Beyond the classroom, Jade enjoys spending time with her friends and family, walking her dog, going to coffee shops, and reading. After graduating, Jade hopes to teach in an elementary setting in Minnesota.

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Kaitlyn Kaus has been selected to serve as the graduate student commencement speaker, representing the College of Education for the May 7^th ceremony.

A native of Hutchinson, Minnesota, Kaitlyn is graduating with a Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision. During her time at Minnesota State University, Mankato, she worked as a Graduate Assistant in the Counseling and Student Personnel Department and was involved with the Tech Fee Committee. Kaitlyn co-taught approximately 13 classes at MSU in both the Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling masters programs.

A fond memory Kaitlyn has from student teaching is seeing both herself and her students grow. “The best memories from teaching have not been only seeing myself grow as a future professor but also seeing the students grow as future professionals.” When asked why she was drawn to Counselor Education and Supervision, Kaitlyn explained, “There are so many professional and personal experiences that have drawn me into pursuing this degree. If I had to pick one, it would be seeing the increase in children and adolescents’ mental health and the need for professionally trained counselors to advocate for change.”

Kaitlyn enjoyed attending Minnesota State University because of the great community. “I most enjoyed all the friendships that were made, connections with other students and faculty, and the opportunities to grow as a researcher and scholar.” Additionally, Kaitlyn shared one of her fond memories at the university includes meeting her husband, Nick.

Kaitlyn’s advice for individuals considering a field in Counselor Education and Supervision is, “Never stop advocating for yourself and for those in need.”

Beyond the classroom, Kaitlyn loves to spend time outside. “I enjoy spending as much time as I can with my husband, family, and friends! I also enjoy lake life including jet skiing and boat riding, as well as physical fitness, and country music.”

After graduation, Kaitlyn plans to “work in a private practice and conduct therapy and neuropsychological evaluations for the pediatric population.” She would also love to teach in higher education at either the undergraduate or graduate level.

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Daniel De Smith has been selected to serve as the Special Education student speaker for the College of Education Pinning ceremony on May 6^th. The Pinning ceremony recognizes our undergraduate Bachelor of Science in teaching graduates and graduate-level initial licensure graduates.

A native of Walnut Grove, Minnesota, Daniel is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education. During his time at Minnesota State University, Mankato, Daniel was involved with the Hosanna Highland Young Adults Group as well as serving as an Archives student assistant at the Memorial Library. Daniel conducted his student teaching at Hartley Elementary in Waseca, MN.

A fond memory Daniel has from student teaching surrounds the relationships formed with his students. “During my first week, I received so many hugs from students. What stands out to me is how much growth I experienced working with my students. I finally realized that I am a real teacher now, I’m not preparing for it: it’s here.” When asked what drew him to Special Education, Daniel explained, “The ability to work with students in a small-group setting as well as a desire to have a hand in educating students to prepare them for the world in which we live.”

While attending the university, Daniel enjoyed meeting so many great people. “One memory that sticks out to me is the College of Education picnic in the spring of 2021. The Special Education department was well represented that day, especially when we started an unplanned line dancing session.”

For individuals considering a career in Special Education, Daniel advises, “Do not let yourself get stuck or stop trying—keep on moving until something works.”

Beyond the classroom, Daniel enjoys various hobbies. “I enjoy spending time outside, learning about history, especially my family history, acting, and making craft projects.”

After graduation, Daniel plans to begin his teaching career. “I will begin my career as a Special Education teacher in a rural Minnesota district for the 2022-2023 academic year.”

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Rheannon Graves has been selected to serve as the Elementary Education student speaker for the College of Education Pinning Ceremony on May 6^th. The Pinning ceremony recognizes our undergraduate Bachelor of Science in teaching graduates and graduate-level initial licensure graduates.

A native of Brownsdale, Minnesota, Rheannon is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. During her time at Minnesota State University, Mankato, Rheannon was involved with Educators for Equity. While attending the university, Rheannon enjoyed meeting people. “I have established several close friendships with other members of the Edina co-hort.” Rheannon conducted her student teaching in Minneapolis, MN.

When asked to identify a fond memory from student teaching, Rheannon answered, “I work with about 60 students. Each one of them is unique and holds a special place in my heart. I have so many memories from student teaching. Once, there was a time when I was getting ready to begin my lesson. As I walked to the front of the classroom, the students began clapping and cheering. It was an unexpected sentiment. When I got to the front of the room, I sat my laptop down, positioned myself in the center of the ‘stage’ and bowed.”

A quote that motivated Rheannon during her educational pursuits is a quote that her family uses often. “The eagle does not catch flies.”

Beyond the classroom, Rheannon enjoys spending time with her children and expressing creativity. “I am a mom to two wonderful boys, Gabe and Ty. They come first. Additionally, I enjoy reading, art, and music.”

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Elias Hernandez has been selected to serve as the K-12 & Secondary Programs student speaker for the College of Education Pinning Ceremony on May 6^th. The Pinning ceremony recognizes our undergraduate Bachelor of Science in teaching graduates and graduate-level initial licensure graduates.

A native of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, Elias is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Music Education, K-12 Instrumental and Classroom Music. During his time at Minnesota State University, Mankato, Elias was involved in a variety of organizations including Concert Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Jazz Big Band, Jazz Lab Band, Maverick Fusion, and the Maverick Machine. Elias conducted his student teaching at the Waseca Intermediate School.

A fond memory that Elias has from student teaching was when his students sang their favorite acapella song. “Listening to my fourth-grade students sing one of their favorite songs from class completely acapella, without me directing—purely out of love for the music.” When asked what drew him to music education, Elias explained, “Music has always been a large part of what gives my life purpose and having the opportunity to share that gift with beginning musicians made it an easy decision to study music.”

While attending the university, Elias enjoyed working with his professors. “I enjoy how my professors here have been accessible and easy to work with.” For individuals considering a field in music education, Elias advises, “Learn how to break large tasks into manageable pieces. Music Education can be quite rigorous and learning how to pace yourself early in the career will serve you well down the road.”

A quote that has inspired Elias throughout his life is, “In learning, you will teach, and in teaching, you will learn.” Beyond the classroom, Elias’s hobbies include singing, gardening, cooking, baking, and kayaking.

After graduation, Elias plans to “take a vacation and enjoy life at a slower pace for the first time in a while!”

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