Graduates of Vanguard University gather to celebrate their achievements during the commencement ceremony.
Vanguard University held its opening commencement ceremony for 2025, recognizing 514 graduates at Mariners Church. The event included morning and afternoon sessions, featuring inspiring speeches from alumni and student representatives. Graduates were celebrated for their diverse backgrounds and contributions, as they embark on the next stages of their lives.
Irvine, CA – Vanguard University celebrated its first commencement ceremony of the season on Thursday, honoring a total of 514 graduates at Mariners Church. This milestone event recognized the accomplishments of the Class of 2025 and other students as they transitioned to the next stages of their lives.
The graduation ceremony featured two distinct sessions. During the morning ceremony, 361 members of the Class of 2025 received their diplomas, along with 53 undergraduate students from the professional education program. The afternoon session included 100 graduate students who were also honored for their achievements.
University President Michael Beals presented diplomas to graduates during the morning session, marking a significant moment in their academic journey. Amberly Gourlay, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science while minoring in theology and public policy, served as the student speaker. Gourlay, who held the position of student body president, shared insights about her time at Vanguard and the mixed emotions she felt about graduating.
Originally from Alaska and raised in Durban, South Africa, Gourlay has spent the last four years living in Southern California. During her time at the university, she actively participated in the College Corps program and served as a resident assistant in Newport Hall. As she prepares for her upcoming graduate studies at Northeastern University on the East Coast, Gourlay reflected on her experience at Vanguard, describing it as a supportive community that has greatly contributed to her spiritual and professional growth.
During the ceremony, alumni Howard Booker was invited to deliver the commencement address. Having earned his MBA in 2008, Booker is now the executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation, an organization that focuses on supporting youth in foster care and homelessness. His remarks emphasized the importance of resilience, encouraging graduates to view their challenging life stories as an integral part of their journey without allowing those moments to define them.
The ceremony served not only as a conclusion to the academic efforts of the graduates but also as an affirmation of the university’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment. Each graduate showcased unique backgrounds, stories, and aspirations, representing the breadth of experiences that enrich the Vanguard community.
With the graduation of these 514 students, Vanguard University continues to prepare individuals for successful careers and significant contributions to society. The ceremony not only celebrated academic achievements but also aimed to inspire graduates as they step into new roles within their communities.
Vanguard University, located in Costa Mesa, California, is a private Christian university offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines. Known for its focus on developing a well-rounded education, the institution prides itself on providing a strong academic foundation coupled with spiritual growth opportunities for its students. As the university celebrates the achievements of its graduates, it remains committed to its mission of preparing leaders for a complex and changing world.
As graduates leave the university, they carry with them not just degrees but also the foundational experiences and support gathered throughout their academic journey. The ceremony stands as a testament to their hard work and dedication, setting the stage for their future endeavors.
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