News Summary
Vanguard University proudly held its commencement ceremony, honoring 514 graduates across various programs. Keynote speaker Howard Booker shared insights on resilience, emphasizing the importance of overcoming challenges. Amberly Gourlay, a notable graduate and former student body president, reflected on her transformative journey at the university. The event marked a significant milestone as graduates embark on their next life chapters, reinforcing the values of perseverance and community.
Irvine, CA – Vanguard University celebrated the graduation of 514 students during its commencement ceremony held on Thursday at Mariners Church. This event marked the first graduation ceremony of the season for local schools as May begins.
The morning session of the ceremony saw 361 members of the Class of 2025 receiving their diplomas. An additional 153 graduates, which included 53 professional education undergraduates and 100 graduate students, participated in the afternoon ceremony. University President Michael Beals officiated the event and distributed the diplomas to the graduates as they transitioned into the next phase of their lives.
Among those honored, Amberly Gourlay, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in history and political science, served as the student speaker during the morning ceremony. Gourlay, a former student body president, spent the last four years in Southern California after her early life in Alaska and Durban, South Africa. During her time at Vanguard, she held various roles including College Corps resident and fellow, as well as resident assistant in Newport Hall. After graduation, she plans to further her education at Northeastern University on the East Coast, while reflecting on her experiences at Vanguard as critical to her personal and spiritual development.
The commencement address was delivered by Howard Booker, a Vanguard alumnus and executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation, who graduated with an MBA from the university in 2008. Booker focused on the challenges faced by young people in foster care, sharing insights about resilience and personal growth. He encouraged graduates to embrace their struggles as an integral part of their individual narratives, reinforcing that obstacles do not define their futures.
The commencement ceremony celebrated not only the academic achievements of the graduates but also their perseverance and growth during their time at Vanguard. As the graduates prepare to enter the workforce or continue their education, the event served as a reminder of the importance of resilience and the positive impact of community on individual success.
Vanguard University, founded in 1920, has a rich history of providing a liberal arts education grounded in Christian values. The university strives to develop its students holistically, preparing them for meaningful careers and lives of service. With the commencement event, Vanguard University continues to uphold its traditions of celebrating its graduates’ accomplishments and encouraging them to contribute positively to society.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Vanguard University Celebrates Class of 2025
- Google Search: Vanguard University graduation 2025
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- Wikipedia: Commencement
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Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
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