News Summary
Vanguard University held its inaugural commencement ceremony at Mariners Church, celebrating 514 graduates from various programs. The event featured a morning session for undergraduate students and an afternoon session for professional and graduate students. Amberly Gourlay served as the student speaker, sharing her journey before heading to graduate school. Howard Booker delivered the commencement address, encouraging graduates to embrace their achievements despite challenges. This ceremony highlighted Vanguard’s commitment to academic excellence and community involvement as graduates prepare for their futures.
Irvine – Vanguard University celebrated its inaugural commencement ceremony of the graduation season on Thursday at Mariners Church, marking a significant milestone for 514 graduates across various programs. The event, which took place at the beginning of May, attracted a large turnout of graduates, family members, and university staff.
The morning session welcomed 361 members of the Class of 2025, who were officially recognized as graduates as University President Michael Beals presented them with their diplomas, signaling their transition from undergraduate students to alumni. In addition to the morning ceremony, an afternoon session featured 53 professional education undergraduates and 100 graduate students.
Amberly Gourlay, a notable student leader at Vanguard, served as the student speaker during the morning ceremony. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science, along with minors in Theology and Public Policy. Gourlay’s involvement with the university community included serving as the student body president and working as a College Corps resident and fellow. Originally from Alaska, she spent her formative years in Durban, South Africa, and has resided in Southern California for the past four years while attending Vanguard. As she prepared to embark on her next journey toward graduate school at Northeastern University on the East Coast, Gourlay expressed mixed emotions about leaving a campus she described as a familiar and safe space.
Howard Booker, who delivered the commencement address, is an alumnus of Vanguard University, having earned his MBA in 2008. Currently serving as the executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation, Booker has dedicated his career to supporting youth in foster care, many of whom contend with issues such as homelessness. His address resonated with many attendees, especially graduates who come from challenging backgrounds, as he encouraged them to recognize that their struggles do not define them and to embrace their achievements moving forward.
The commencement ceremony exemplified the strong sense of community and the achievements celebrated at Vanguard University. With a total of 514 graduates this year, the institution continues to emphasize its commitment to cultivating both personal growth and academic excellence among its students.
This year’s graduation season is particularly meaningful as it marks the accomplishments of not only undergraduate students but also professional and graduate students, showcasing the breadth of education offered at Vanguard University. The ceremonies not only highlight the success of individual graduates but also reflect the university’s mission to foster a supportive network that prepares students for their future endeavors.
Vanguard University remains dedicated to its educational values and the importance of community involvement, enabling graduates to enter the workforce equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to make a significant impact in their respective fields.
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Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
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