Jaxson Waugh to Deliver Speech at MSUM's Fall Commencement

Jaxson, a project management student with a passion for hunting and a good sense of humor, will take center stage as the student speaker at the College for Business Analytics & Communications fall commencement ceremony on Dec. 19.

His journey at MSUM started with setbacks, including the challenge of balancing academics with a social life. But by his sophomore year, Jaxson resolved to turn things around and focus on being the best version of himself.

"MSUM's culture makes you feel valued and makes you want to do better," he says.

Jaxson leaned into his coursework and sought out new opportunities for growth. He credits the professors and small class sizes at MSUM for helping him feel seen, valued, and supported.

"Every single professor I had wanted to see me succeed," Jaxson says. "They noticed when I struggled and were willing to reach out and ask if I needed help."

One class stands out in Jaxson's memory. Though he initially did not like the course that focused on Microsoft Office tools like Word, Excel, and Outlook, he later realized how pivotal those skills would be. "That class gave me an edge," he says. "I used those skills every day in my internship."

BS in Project Management

Beyond the classroom, Jaxson wrestled for a season and played rugby at MSUM. However, some injuries kept him off the field. He spends time hunting, fishing, and making friends laugh when he is not studying or working as an operations management intern at Dayton Freight Lines. 

"I think laughter heals most things away," he says.

Jaxson was nominated to speak to the graduating class by Professor Atif Osmani, a faculty member who has been a consistent source of guidance and mentorship throughout his time at MSUM. Jaxson was delighted to accept the honor.

"You only graduate once, so I figured it would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," he says.

His commencement speech will highlight his gratitude to the faculty and staff who have supported him, including Atif Osmani and Dean Peter Sherman, as well as his parents, who are a steady source of encouragement.

As he prepares to walk across the stage and into the next chapter of his life, Jaxson will be moving to Omaha, Neb. to be assistant project manager at Interstates.