The 2019 class from Simpson College graduated recently, with 265 students earning their undergrad and graduate diplomas. A large majority, 252 students, were awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree, while 10 earned a Bachelor of Music degree, and three earned a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice. Alex Hoffman was the undergraduate speaker, who talked about the welcoming community at Simpson despite the difficulties of attending school with cerebral palsy, while criminal and fire investigator with the Ames Police Department Cole Hippen delivered the graduate student address.

List of awards:
Katelyn Mulder received the Trustees’ Academic Award for outstanding accomplishment by an exceptional graduate.

Judy Walden, associate professor of history, earned the Distinguished Teaching Award honoring a faculty member who is recognized by both students and faculty colleagues for outstanding teaching ability.

Elyse Morris, area coordinator for the Buxton and Picken Residence Halls, theme houses and apartments and adjunct professor in the music department, earned the Staff Student Impact Award. The award goes to a staff member whose efforts to mentor and challenge students to graduate exceed the scope of their normal duties.

Class of 1969 graduates Linda and Charles Brice of Indianola led the procession as the 2019 Honorary Grand Marshals.