GRAND FORKS — Though the day began with a thunderstorm and tornado warning in Grand Forks, students at the University of North Dakota were all smiles at the 2025 summer commencement.

UND President Andrew Armacost, among his congratulations to the graduating students in attendance, referenced the inclement weather — which struck before dawn Friday, Aug. 8 — as he asked the audience to build the room’s energy with cheers and applause.

“If you were here on campus last night, you know that there was a tornado warning at 4:12 (a.m.), and it probably woke just about every student who’s here,” he said. “So they’re looking for a nap, but it’s our job to keep them alert today.”

About 500 students, composed of undergraduates and graduate students, were eligible to walk at commencement on Friday a

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