Turning the tassles: MU, UWM, Cardinal Stritch students graduate

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Downtown Milwaukee was filled with caps and gowns as students from Marquette University and UW-Milwaukee celebrated spring commencement in two separate ceremonies. And for two graduates -- it was a family affair!

As he walked up to get his diploma at the BMO Harris Bradley Center during Marquette University's graduation ceremony on Sunday, May 18th, Michael Szatkowski scanned the crowd -- looking for his father.

"We`re all very proud of each other," Michael Szatkowski said.

As Michael Szatkowski completed his Bachelor's Degree in International Affairs, Szatkowski's father was graduating as well.

52-year-old Eric Szatkowski received his Master's Degree in Christian Doctrine.

"I guess I`d call it the ultimate bonding experience between father and son," Eric Szatkowski said.

Eric Szatkowski has spent the last two decades working as a Special Agent with the Wisconsin Department of Justice.

"As I got closer to the age of 50, I realized being a Special Agent isn`t something I can do when I`m 70 or 75 years old," Eric Szatkowski said.

Now, Eric Szatkowski hopes to become a certified Catholic chaplain.

His son has his sights set on a law degree.

"For the past four years, him going to class and me being at class -- we`ve gotten to meet up and get dinner and talk about his school or my school," Michael Szatkowski said.

More than 2,000 people took part in Marquette University's spring commencement.

Marquette's graduating class was made up of students from 47 states and 17 countries.

Across the street, at the U.S. Cellular Arena, UW-Milwaukee students turned their tassels on Sunday.

"Mine is going on five years so I`m glad to be done and out.  I`m ready," Taylee Murray said.

Like many in the crowd, as Al Malmsten reached for his diploma, his thoughts were on the next chapter.

Cardinal Stritch University a total of 679 students received their diploma at a commencement ceremony held on Sunday at the BMO Harris Bradley Center.

That includes 409 undergraduates, 254 graduate students and 16 doctoral students.

"I`m hoping to go to Germany for graduate school," Malmsten said.