Brownson Arena was packed full of people and emotion at the December Commencement. Hundreds of Mavericks stepped across the stage to emerge as Alumni. Dr. Stephen Merino led the faculty into the arena and, at the request of President Marshall, placed the staff on the stage to signal the start of commencement. The commencement speaker chosen by Student Body President Leilani Domingo was head baseball coach Chris Hanks . He advised the next generation of Maverick Alumni to “go for gold”, and that “practice makes perfect”. Marshall posed with each student for a photo as they received their diplomas. CMU Vocal Chords performed “Seasons of Love” from the musical “Rent”. As these newly credentialed Mavs take their steps into the next phase of life, they are able to carry the education, experiences, and relationships they gained at CMU with them. It was shortly after this ceremony that President Marshall decided to shave that glorious mustache. Marshall has chosen to brave the coming whipping winds of Grand Junction’s unforgiving winter with a bare upper lip. His finger will be without a home to be twirled in whilst Marshall is lost in pensive contemplation.