Blackfeet Community College Celebrates the Class of 2026 at 49th Commencement Ceremony
BROWNING, Mont. — Blackfeet Community College celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its 49th Commencement Ceremony held May 15, 2026, at the Multipurpose Arbor in Browning, Montana. Family members, friends, faculty, staff, and community leaders gathered to honor graduates as they completed an important milestone in their educational journeys.
The ceremony reflected the mission and values of Blackfeet Community College, emphasizing leadership, respect, cultural knowledge, dedication, and community. Throughout the event, graduates were recognized not only for their academic accomplishments, but also for the perseverance and commitment that brought them to graduation day.
The commencement program opened with a welcome song performed by Josh Horn, Leland Lukin, and Austin Totoosis. Flag bearers Tyler Running Crane, Joesph Surechief, and Ramona Croff carried the Blackfeet Nation Flag and the American Flag into the ceremony.
The Blackfeet Flag Song was performed by Josh Horn, Leland Lukin, and Austin Totoosis, followed by the processional of the BFCC Class of 2026.
Father Rod Ermainger delivered the invocation. Shelly Hall of the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council, also addressed the audience during the ceremony.
Members of the BFCC Board of Trustees participating in the program included Dana Pemberton, BFCC Chairmwoman. Dr. James Rains provided the introduction of faculty.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Beth Henderson-Matthews, M.A., whose message encouraged graduates to continue pursuing their goals while remaining connected to their community, culture, and future aspirations.
Dr. Brad Hall delivered the introduction of salutatorian and valedictorian speakers. Morgan Rain Sellars gave the salutatorian address, while Dani Hamann presented the valedictorian address.
Additional remarks during the ceremony were presented by Titus Upham and family during the honoring of the Earl Old Person Leadership Award, presented to Angel Littleplume & Dee Hoyt who tied for the faculty award, and Dan Wagner for the staff award. Dr. Brad Hall also presented the “Class of 2026.” Degrees were awarded by the Board of Trustees, respective division chairpersons, and educators.
Conference of Degrees was conducted by Dr. Brad Hall, while the recession was led by the BFCC Class and Colors.
The commencement ceremony highlighted Blackfeet Community College’s continued commitment to strengthening and enriching the community through education while integrating the Nii-tsi-ta-pi world of knowledge.
As the graduates crossed the stage and celebrated with loved ones, the ceremony served as both a recognition of their accomplishments and a reminder of the opportunities ahead. The Class of 2026 now joins the growing legacy of Blackfeet Community College alumni prepared to make meaningful contributions within their communities and beyond.
Speakers and Participants
- Shelly Hall — Blackfeet Tribal Business Council
- Dana Pemberton — BFCC Chairmwoan
- Dr. James Rains — Introduction of Faculty
- Dr. Beth Henderson-Matthews, M.A. — Keynote Speaker
- Dr. Brad Hall — Introduction of Speakers, Presentation of the Class of 2026, and Conference of Degrees
- Morgan Rain Sellars — Salutatorian Address
- Dani Hamann — Valedictorian Address
- Father Rod Ermainger — Invocation
- Musical Performers and Ceremony Participants
Congratulations to the Blackfeet Community College Class of 2026.