North Idaho College graduates celebrate commencement

School spirit was tangible Friday morning as North Idaho College's 2024 graduates celebrated one of the biggest moments in their academic journeys. That spirit was on full display with Hunter Johnston, who has performed as NIC's mascot, Cecil Cardinal, since April 2023. He made his way across the commencement stage wearing his fuzzy Cardinal red gloves and oversized plush bird feet. “I’m feeling good, I finally have a summer off. No summer classes,” said Johnston, who graduated from Coeur d'Alene High School with honors in 2021 and received a dual degree in chemistry and general studies from NIC.