August 19, 2025

Vanguard University Celebrates Graduation Season

News Summary

Vanguard University held its first commencement ceremony, honoring 514 graduates at Mariners Church in Irvine. The event featured speeches from graduates and alumni, emphasizing resilience and diversity in education. Meanwhile, the University of California, Irvine prepares for its own graduation ceremonies, celebrating thousands of diverse graduates. Both institutions highlight the significance of hard work and community impact as students transition to the next chapter of their lives.

Irvine, California – Graduation season is in full swing as Vanguard University celebrated its first commencement ceremony of the season on Thursday, May 4, 2023, at Mariners Church in Irvine. The university honored a total of 514 graduates, making this event a significant milestone for both the institution and its graduating students.

The morning ceremony saw 361 members of the Class of 2025 walking across the stage to receive their diplomas, with University President Michael Beals personally handing out degrees to the graduating undergraduates. Additionally, the afternoon ceremony featured 53 professional education undergraduates and 100 graduate students, collectively showcasing the university’s diverse academic programs.

Amberly Gourlay, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science, served as the student speaker for the morning ceremony. Gourlay, who has held roles including student body president and College Corps resident and fellow, reflected on her experiences at the university. Originally from Alaska and raised in Durban, South Africa, she expressed mixed emotions about leaving the supportive environment that Vanguard provided for her personal and academic growth. Gourlay plans to further her education by attending graduate school at Northeastern University on the East Coast.

The commencement address was delivered by Howard Booker, an MBA graduate from Vanguard, who now serves as the executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation. Booker, who has a strong background in working with youth in foster care, inspired the graduates to accept that while hardship is a part of their journeys, it does not define who they are.

As Vanguard University marked this significant ceremony, the University of California, Irvine (UCI) was also gearing up for its graduation festivities. UCI is set to hold commencement ceremonies for over 8,600 graduates throughout the weekend, with 12 ceremonies planned at the Bren Events Center. Notable speakers, including hedge fund pioneer Ed Thorp and California Attorney General Rob Bonta, are scheduled to address the graduates during these events.

UCI has gained recognition for its commitment to diversity, with 42% of its undergraduate students being first-generation college attendees and nearly one-third being transfer students from community colleges. The university’s initiatives reflect a broader trend, as it is expected to grant more than 10,000 degrees in the 2024-25 academic year, including 2,240 degrees awarded to Latino students, marking a steady increase in representation over the last decade. UCI is designated as a Hispanic-serving institution, an acknowledgment of its dedication to serving a diverse student population.

This year’s commencement ceremonies at UCI also recognize the resilience of graduates who have navigated the challenges posed by a global pandemic and social justice movements. During his address, Attorney General Bonta urged graduates to take a stand against injustice and utilize their educational experiences to foster positive change in society.

The graduation season at Vanguard University is not only a celebration of academic achievements but also a testament to the hard work and perseverance of all graduates. As these students transition to the next phases of their lives, both Vanguard University and UC Irvine continue to empower their graduates to make meaningful impacts on their communities and beyond.

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Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH

The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH

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