photo by: Austin Hornbostel/Journal-World

Graduates at Haskell Indian Nations University's spring 2023 commencement ceremony make their way across the stage to receive their diplomas Friday, May 12, 2023.

On Friday, Haskell Indian Nations University recognized 134 graduates at its spring commencement ceremony.

This year’s graduates heard from commencement speaker Steven Paul Judd, a Kiowa-Choctaw artist, writer and filmmaker. Judd has a lengthy resume of creative pursuits, from collaborations with brands like Nike and Vans to showings with the Smithsonian.

Judd told graduates to embrace adversity, rather than looking at setbacks as roadblocks. He also said that though the future is often the biggest unknown for many, it’s important to not waste the present.

photo by: Austin Hornbostel/Journal-World

Haskell grad Randy Estrin waves to the crowd after being recognized as the American Indian College Fund student of the year for Haskell.

photo by: Austin Hornbostel/Journal-World

Haskell graduates move their tassels from right to left.

photo by: Austin Hornbostel/Journal-World

Haskell graduates make their way into the gymnasium at the Coffin Sports Complex on campus.

photo by: Austin Hornbostel/Journal-World

Haskell’s interim president, Frank Arpan, poses for photos with graduates after they receive their diplomas.

photo by: Austin Hornbostel/Journal-World

Haskell graduates make their way into the gymnasium at the Coffin Sports Complex on campus.

photo by: Austin Hornbostel/Journal-World

Kiowa-Choctaw artist, writer and filmmaker Steven Paul Judd delivers the commencement address at Haskell’s spring commencement ceremony.

photo by: Austin Hornbostel/Journal-World

Some members of the audience periodically held up signs congratulating graduates during Haskell’s spring commencement ceremony Friday, May 12, 2023.