MARQUETTE, Mich.—Graduating senior Lauren Fusilier of Mason, Mich., will serve as the student speaker at Northern Michigan University’s mid-year commencement on Saturday, Dec. 17. She will earn a degree in elementary and special education-emotional impairment.

            Fusilier, a graduate of Jackson Christian High School, is the daughter of Philip and Joanne Knowlton of Stockbridge.

           “My speech is going to be a challenge of sorts to myself and my fellow graduates,” she said. “I have been inspired by recent events in the realms of American politics, Hollywood and collegiate sports to speak on the issue of integrity and choosing to ‘do the hard things’ in life.”

            A highlight of Fusilier’s NMU experience was participating in a demonstration of the university’s WiMAX network for President Obama during his February 2011 visit to campus.  “I was able to speak to the president in person and explain to him how the technology is being used in NMU’s teacher education program,” she said. “NMU has opened up many doors of opportunity for me. That was the most memorable.”

            Fusilier has also been involved in NMU Circle K, the NMU chapter of the Invisible Children movement, intramurals and various education events.

            NMU’s commencement ceremony begins at 10:30 a.m. It will be streamed free online through America One/B2 Networks. A link will be available at www.nmu.edu/commencement.