KBOCC to Honor 28 Graduates at Commencement

Karina Jousma April 29, 2026 | 0

April 29, 2026

KBOCC to Honor 28 Graduates at Commencement

Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College (KBOCC) will celebrate a historic milestone as it awards 28 associate degrees during the 2026 Honors and Commencement Ceremony at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 8, at the Niiwin Akeaa Center in Baraga. This year’s commencement marks the largest class in the College’s history and includes the inaugural graduates of two Associate of Science degree programs: Nursing and Psychology. “This year’s commencement is incredibly exciting for KBOCC,” says Megan Haataja, Dean of Academic Affairs. “We are proud to celebrate 28 graduates, including six who completed dual degrees, along with an impressive number of certificate students who have worked hard to reach this milestone. These accomplishments reflect the dedication of our students, faculty, and staff and mark a significant milestone of growth and achievement for the College. It is truly a historic moment for KBOCC, and we look forward to seeing the impact our graduates will have in their communities and beyond.” The ceremony will be live streamed on the Facebook Event for commencement. Prior to commencement, a special pinning ceremony honoring graduates from the nursing program will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6, at Zeba Hall. This pinning ceremony marks the transition from education to professional practice. During the ceremony, each graduate will receive a nursing pin symbolizing their dedication, compassion, and commitment to patient care.

Commencement Speaker, Angeline Boulley

Award-winning author Angeline Boulley

Angeline Boulley, a New York Times best-selling author, will deliver this year’s commencement address. Boulley, an enrolled member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, is a storyteller and New York Times best-selling author whose work is inspired by her Ojibwe community. Her debut novel, “Firekeeper’s Daughter,” is a #1 New York Times Best Seller. “Firekeeper’s Daughter” has received numerous awards and honors, including the Michael L. Printz Award for excellence in young adult literature from the American Library Association; the William C. Morris Award for best young adult novel by a debut author; designation as one of The 100 Best Young Adult Books of all Time by TIME magazine; and the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Young Adult (YA) Novel. Her follow-up novel, “Warrior Girl Unearthed,” is also a New York Times Best Seller that has received a Boston Globe–Horn Book Award. Her most recent novel, “Sisters in the Wind,” also debuted on the New York Times Best Sellers list and has received seven starred reviews as well as designation as a Printz Award Honor Book. Boulley lives in southwest Michigan, but her heart will always be on Sugar Island.

Co-Valedictorians, Stephanie Baril and Amber Heikkinen

KBOCC recognizes two students as co-valedictorians for the Class of 2026: Stephanie Baril and Amber Heikkinen. Both graduates earned an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education while maintaining a flawless 4.0 GPA.

Stephanie Baril

Stephanie Baril is the daughter of Tom and Cindy Roy, of L’Anse. Her desire to make a positive impact in the lives of young children led her to pursue a degree in early childhood education, and her studies at KBOCC have strengthened her understanding of child development and effective teaching strategies for creating engaging learning environments. Baril works full time with the KBIC Head Start program in the Baraga classroom. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, searching for beach glass, watching sunsets, and exploring waterfalls. She especially values time spent with her nieces and nephews and finds immense happiness in being a part of their lives. She would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to her family, friends, and instructors, whose unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping her journey and inspiring her success.

Amber Heikkinen

Amber Heikkinen is the daughter of Carrie Sikkila and Kevin Heikkinen and the proud mother of Kristian Levi Swartz, her son, who has been a constant source of inspiration throughout her educational journey. She works full time at Baraga Area Schools and part time for BHK Child Development, where she is dedicated to supporting children’s academic and personal growth. Her passion for early childhood education is driven by her commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners. Heikkinen began her studies at KBOCC in 2023 and plans to continue her education this fall by pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Outside of her academic and professional life, Amber enjoys creative activities, camping with her son, repairing things, and reading. She would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to her family, friends, and everyone who supported and encouraged her along the way.

Academic

KBOCC to Honor 28 Graduates at Commencement