United Tribes Technical College honored 40 mid-year graduates during a ceremony Dec. 18 at the college in Bismarck.

Those from Mandan that graduated during the ceremony, followed by their degrees, are: Moria F. Kasto, computer information technology; Savannah J. Peterson, criminal justice; Janice M. McGuire, medical transcription; Shari A. Otto, medical transcription.

The ceremony’s guest speaker, Scott Davis, urged them to help “take ownership” of their tribal communities.

“Take the energy from your accomplishments here and put them into your work back home,” said Davis, executive director of the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission. “In earning a diploma you are not obligated to go home and give back to your community. But your families and friends and your tribe are watching you, to see how and what you will do. So, make the most of this opportunity.”

The drum group Tatanka Nagi provided opening and closing songs. A reception was held for 200 friends and family who attended the program.