BVU Announces 2018 Commencement Speaker
Naig, who is a 2000 graduate of BVU with degrees in biology and political science, was appointed to his new role last month by Governor Kim Reynolds.
Buena Vista University has announced that Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Naig, will be the 2018 Commencement speaker on May 26.
Naig, who is a 2000 graduate of BVU with degrees in biology and political science, was appointed to his new role last month by Governor Kim Reynolds. Prior to that, Naig had successfully served as the state’s deputy secretary of agriculture since 2013.
“It is a great honor to be able to return to my alma mater and join students and their families as they celebrate the next step in their educational journey,” said Naig. “Whether they are going on to graduate school or joining the work force, Buena Vista does an outstanding job preparing students for success and I’m excited to see what these young men and women will accomplish.”
As secretary of agriculture, Naig is committed to leading efforts to protect consumers, expanding economic opportunities for Iowans, and advocating in Iowa and around the globe.
Naig is also dedicated to improving the state’s water quality, as well as embracing science and technology to conserve Iowa’s natural resources and to secure a safe and affordable food and energy supply.
“We are thrilled that the incredibly successful Mike Naig will be our commencement speaker,” said BVU President Joshua D. Merchant. “Mike has been a strong force behind, and advocate for, Iowa agriculture. The experiences and insights he can share from his career will surely resonate with our graduates and prepare them as they step forward into the next chapter of their lives.”
Naig grew up on a family farm in northwest Iowa and continues to be involved in the operation today. He and his wife, Jaime, also a 2000 BVU graduate, have three boys.