The ceremony featured five valedictorians — Emily Brown and Ethan Schauland of New Ulm; and Elizabeth Halvorson, Logan Paulsen, and Henry Manthe, North Mankato.

Jim Buboltz, MVL Dean of Students explained how it happened.

“This is a very talented class. We’re very blessed. I’m very proud of this group. They have a very bright future to look forward to,” he said.

Marley Schauer of New Ulm was salutatorian.

Staff photo by Fritz Busch Elizabeth Halvorson, one of five Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School Class of 2026 valedictorians, shakes hands with student dean Jim Buboltz after receiving her diploma at the Sunday commencement service in the field house.

In his commencement address, Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary President Rev. Tim Hartwig told graduates they can get into a lot of trouble marching to their own drummer.

“Make sure the Lord is in front of you. If you get into a mess, it’s probably because the Lord isn’t in front of you,” he said. “Jesus had to march all the way to death for our sins, but that didn’t separate him from us. We don’t know what the future holds. We may desire a fairy tale, but that’s often not how life works out. We don’t have to be afraid. There is nothing Jesus can’t handle, not even death. He died and returned.”

Hartwig told students they have nothing to fear with Jesus walking in front of them.

Valedictorian and class speaker Henry Manthe told students to remember to allow God, family and friendships to guide them.

“God will always be there. He is the foundation. Family is your support system. A foundation that is strongest when it aligns with God. Friendships shape us as the individuals that we are. The friendships you made at MVL will have a lasting impact on you as you move on in life. Your lives may shift now, more than they ever have before. Remember you are not alone. Your friends and family will be there. God will always be there,” he said.

Staff photo by Fritz Busch Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary President Rev. Tim Hartwig delivers the commencement address at the MVL Commencement Service Sunday.

Valedictorian Elizabeth Halvorson talked about things we do that define who we are.

“I urge you to think not just about the biggest memories, but think about the little things I believe have a real impact on others,” she said. “The past four years have had so many little things. Things I’ve learned from my best friend. I hope you carry a small piece of MVL with you, the people and experiences we share. I hope you continue to be able to bring joy to people. Let your light shine before others that they see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

“Your faith reflects to others that there is something different about you. Something that says you and your actions are apart from others. This is such an important aspect to keep at the front of our minds. A smile to a co-worker. Supporting those in need. Putting others before yourself.”

The Class of 2026 chose Deuteronomy 31:8 as its class verse: “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

The high school recently honored the Class of 2026 at a ceremony celebrating their academic achievements and future endeavors.

This year’s college-bound seniors secured more than $115,000 in competitive scholarships. Combining it with institutional gift aid, the class earned $1.82 million in cumulative financial awards to be utilized over the next four years.

Jeremy Berg and the Rev. Paul Meitner received an acknowledgement of completed service on the MVL Board of Directors. Craig Morgan was acknowledged for 30 years and Rollin Timm 28 years on the MVL faculty.