Fri, Dec 15, 2017, 6:30 –7:30 pm Auditorium 150 Image Congratulations to the graduating class of Fall 2017 Join the class of Fall 2017 as they celebrate the completion of their degrees. Commencement Speaker: Seitu Jones Born in North Minneapolis in 1951, Seitu Jones was deeply influenced by the Black Arts Movement and its central belief that artists have an obligation to leave their communities “more beautiful than they found it.” Nationally recognized as a dynamic collaborator and a creative force for civic engagement, Jones was the first-ever artist-in-residence in the City of Minneapolis, an original company member of Penumbra Theatre, and creator of recent public art installation CREATE: The Community Table. He also founded the nonprofit youth development program Urban Boatbuilders and has been a guiding force behind Frogtown Farm and other urban “greenlining” initiatives. Following the ceremony, a reception will be held in the Main Gallery, where work by graduating BFA and BS students is on display. Film and animation viewings begin at 7:30 p.m. in Auditorium 140. Light refreshments and musical entertainment will be provided.