News Summary
Vanguard University kicked off graduation season with a ceremony honoring 514 graduates at Mariners Church. University President Michael Beals presented diplomas to the Class of 2025, which included undergraduates, professional education students, and graduates. Keynote speaker Howard Booker inspired attendees with his message about overcoming challenges. Standout graduate Amberly Gourlay expressed gratitude for her time at Vanguard before planning her future studies. The event showcased the institution’s commitment to excellence and community engagement as it leads the local graduation season.
Irvine – Graduation season commenced at Vanguard University on a Thursday, marking a significant milestone for the institution as it celebrated a total of 514 graduates during its commencement ceremony held at Mariners Church.
The morning ceremony saw the participation of 361 members from the Class of 2025. University President Michael Beals presented diplomas to these graduates, emphasizing the accomplishment of their academic journey. Alongside the undergraduates, the ceremony also honored 53 professional education undergraduates and 100 graduate students in an afternoon session, showcasing the university’s diverse academic programs.
Amberly Gourlay, a standout student from the morning ceremony, was selected to speak on behalf of her fellow graduates. Gourlay received her bachelor of arts degree in history and political science, along with minors in theology and public policy. Her leadership role as the student body president and her experience as a College Corps resident and resident assistant in Newport Hall highlighted her commitment and involvement within the campus community.
Originally from Alaska and raised in Durban, South Africa, Gourlay expressed mixed feelings about the transition away from Vanguard University, describing the institution as a nurturing environment that fostered her personal, spiritual, and professional growth. She plans to pursue graduate studies at Northeastern University on the East Coast, indicating a continued commitment to her academic and professional advancement.
Howard Booker, an alumnus who earned his master’s in business administration from Vanguard in 2008, gave the keynote address during the ceremony. As the executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation, Booker has dedicated his career to supporting youth facing challenges such as foster care and homelessness. His address inspired graduates to view past hardships as integral parts of their life stories without allowing them to define their futures.
The graduation ceremony drew a large crowd, with family and friends of the graduates attending to celebrate this important occasion. The atmosphere was filled with joy and pride as students marked the end of one chapter in their lives and the beginning of another.
This event kicked off the graduation season in the region, with Vanguard University becoming the first local institution to hold a commencement ceremony for 2025 graduates. The impressive total of 514 graduates reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to education and community engagement.
Vanguard University’s emphasis on not just academic excellence but also spiritual and professional growth resonates throughout its programs. The institution prides itself on being a supportive community that prepares students for various pathways, whether in further education or entering the workforce.
As commencement ceremonies continue in the upcoming weeks across various educational institutions, Vanguard University stands at the forefront, having successfully celebrated the achievements of its graduates and reinforcing the significance of their contributions to society.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Vanguard University Celebrates Class of 2025
- Orange County Register: Vanguard University Graduation Photos
- ABC7: Vanguard University Class of 2024 Reflection
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Graduation
- Spectrum News: Vanguard University Dress for Success
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
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