Commencement Week 2025
Let the Festivities Begin!
CMN will be hosting their 2025 Commencement at
the Menominee Casino Resort Conference Center
on Friday, May 16th in the Five Clans Ballroom.
The ceremony will begin at 10AM.
Commencement Week Schedule of Events
- High School Recognition Event: May 14th.
- 5-7 pm (invite only) at Menominee Casino Resort
- President's Breakfast and Commencement Rehearsal: May 15th.
- 9AM (graduates only) at Menominee Casino Resort
- Commencement: May 16th.
- Students should plan to arrive by 8:30
- Class picture will be taken at 9, they will lineup at 9:30, and commencement starts at 10 am:
- at Menominee Casino Resort
- Reception to follow at CMN Campus
Keynote & Student Speakers
Commencement Speaker: Ernie Stevens, Jr.
Ernest L. Stevens, Jr. is a prominent leader in the Indian gaming industry. He serves as the chairman and national spokesperson for the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) in Washington, D.C. With an impressive tenure spanning over 24 years, Stevens is currently beginning his thirteenth two-year term, a position he was elected to in 2001 by the members of IGA. His leadership has been instrumental during a pivotal time for the organization, which proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary this year and is one of the foremost advocacy organizations in Indian Country.
Student Speaker: Joshua Shawanokasic
Joshua Shawanokasic grew up on the Menominee Indian Reservation, surrounded by its culture and values while attending schools in Shawano. He's served as a Patrolman for the Shawano Police Department for over nine years, and connects with the community through events like the National Night Out, Cone with a Cop, Shop with a Cop, and pick-up games of basketball with neighborhood kids.
His commitment to service, family, and community is at the heart of everything he does.