Three students from Decorah were recognized among Luther College’s spring 2026 graduates, and each earned Latin honors for academic achievement. Dylan Joseph Muhlbauer received the highest distinction among the three, graduating magna cum laude.

Andrew Bradley Chamberlain and Elizabeth Clement both graduated cum laude. Chamberlain completed majors in Law and Values and Nordic Studies, while Clement earned a degree in Social Work. Muhlbauer completed majors in Accounting and Management.

Decorah graduates and their honors

  • Andrew Bradley Chamberlain: Majors in Law and Values and Nordic Studies; cum laude.
  • Elizabeth Clement: Degree in Social Work; cum laude.
  • Dylan Joseph Muhlbauer: Majors in Accounting and Management; magna cum laude.

The three Decorah graduates were part of a spring class in which 110 students earned Latin honors across a range of majors. Luther also reported that 22% of the graduating class completed double majors.

The college announced the graduate list Aug. 7, following the spring commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 24. Luther said the ceremony honored graduates as they began the next stage of their lives.

A class with Iowa and international connections

Luther’s spring graduating class included students from communities across Iowa, the United States and other countries. The announcement specifically identified graduates from nearby Iowa communities including Cresco, Spillville, New Albin and Iowa City, along with the Decorah graduates.

Approximately 20% of the spring graduates were first-generation college students, according to Luther. International students represented 17% of the class, while transfer students accounted for 6%.

Luther’s announcement listed each participating graduate’s hometown, major and academic honors. The college also directed readers to a video featuring highlights from the 2026 commencement and related coverage of the spring Dean’s List.

Commencement awards and address

Gideon Armah-Amissah received the Luther College Elizabeth A. and Paul G. Jenson Medal during commencement. Luther described the annual award as an honor for an outstanding senior selected by the graduating class who best demonstrates the college’s ideals through service to students and the college community.

David Hecht, a 2011 Luther graduate, received the Young Alumni Award and delivered the commencement address. Luther identified Hecht as a conservation social scientist and environmental anthropologist. The award recognizes outstanding achievement by alumni who graduated within the previous 15 years.