UND School of Law Celebrates Class of 2026

The University of North Dakota School of Law conferred the degrees of Juris Doctor (J.D.) during a commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center in Grand Forks.

Seventy-three candidates completed the requirements for the degree of Juris Doctor. Fifty-seven members of the Class of 2026 completed degree requirements during the spring semester, while an additional 16 members of the class completed degree requirements in December 2025. One member of the class, Taylor House, completed the joint J.D./MBA program. Sixty-one candidates participated in the ceremony.

The ceremony was officiated by UND President Andrew Armacost and Interim Dean Bradley Myers. Chief Justice Lisa K. Fair McEvers of the North Dakota Supreme Court delivered the commencement address.

In her remarks, Chief Justice McEvers encouraged graduates to approach the legal profession with integrity, professionalism and a commitment to service. She reflected on the important role attorneys play in their communities and challenged graduates to remain dedicated to lifelong learning, thoughtful advocacy and the pursuit of justice throughout their careers.

Each member of the class crossed the stage and received their doctoral hood from Professor Michael McGinniss and Professor Blake Klinkner, as well as a diploma cover from UND President Andrew Armacost. Dr. Pam Shea, Director of Admissions and Assistant Dean for Student Services, Brad Parrish, acted as proctors.

After the ceremony, graduates and their guests attended a brunch at the Memorial Union hosted by UND School of Law.

“This is a momentous day for our graduates and for the entire UND Law community,” said Interim Dean Myers in his remarks. “We take pride in all that our graduates have accomplished and look forward with confidence to the impact they will make in the years ahead.”