Graduating students (seniors and graduate students) — you are invited to participate in a special Baccalaureate Service at Upper House, where we will celebrate your hard work and commission you for service in the greater world.

For much of its history, the University of Wisconsin-Madison hosted a Baccalaureate Service, an ecumenical Christian celebration honoring the graduating class. These services traditionally featured hymns, scripture lessons, a message, prayers, and recognitions. Four years ago, Upper House relaunched this tradition, hosting a brunch and service featuring a university speaker and pastor, who together offer vision and encouragement to students and their guests, elevating the hope of the gospel, our thanksgiving, and our shared call to serve the common good.

Together with friends, families, and the broader university community, we are excited to celebrate God's faithfulness and your outstanding achievement of completing a degree at UW-Madison.

We encourage you to reserve your seat (and those of guests) as soon as possible. Though this event is free, it fills up quickly.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

Reception and Brunch

Welcome — SL Brown Foundation Staff

Musical Worship — Erin Oakley, Door Creek Church

Message of Encouragement — Dr. Rick L. Lindroth, UW-Madison Emeritus Faculty

Prayers for Students — Campus Ministry Staff

Commissioning — Matt Metzger, Blackhawk Church

Benediction and Closing

SPEAKERS

Matt Metzger is the Senior Pastor of Blackhawk Church. He joined the staff in September 2000 as the College and Young Adult Pastor and began his role as Lead Pastor of Blackhawk Downtown in 2010. Matt is a big fan of UW-Madison sports and is a chaplain to multiple teams. 

Dr. Rick Lindroth is Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professor (Ecology), Associate Dean for Research (Emeritus) at UW-Madison, and a Distinguished Fellow for the Lumen Center at the SL Brown Foundation.

Erin Oakley is a singer-songwriter and independent artist. She is the worship director for Door Creek Church Northside.