Hillsdale College Holds 174th Commencement Ceremony Featuring Erika Kirk The annual ceremony included conferral of degrees and announcement of top academic graduates. HILLSDALE, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hillsdale College held its 174th Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9. The College conferred undergraduate, graduate, and honorary degrees. Erika Kirk, CEO of Turning Point USA and widow of its founder, Charlie Kirk, delivered the Commencement address.