News Summary
Vanguard University held its commencement ceremony at Mariners Church, conferring diplomas to 514 graduates. The event showcased the achievements of the Class of 2025, professional education program undergraduates, and graduate students. Student speaker Amberly Gourlay shared her journey and future plans, while Howard Booker inspired attendees with his address. The graduation marked a significant milestone for both graduates and the university community, celebrating individual accomplishments and strengthening bonds.
Irvine, California – Vanguard University celebrated its commencement ceremony on Thursday at Mariners Church, where a total of 514 graduates proudly received their diplomas. The ceremony marked the university’s initiation of graduation season, showcasing the achievements of students who have completed their academic endeavors.
Among the 514 graduates were 361 members from the Class of 2025, who participated in the morning session. Additionally, 53 undergraduates from the professional education program graduated, with an afternoon ceremony dedicated to 100 graduate students.
The diplomas were conferred by Michael Beals, the President of Vanguard University, symbolizing a significant milestone in the lives of the graduates. The morning ceremony featured Amberly Gourlay as the student speaker. Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science, Gourlay also minored in theology and public policy. Throughout her time at Vanguard, she fulfilled multiple roles, including serving as the student body president and taking on responsibilities as a College Corps resident and fellow, as well as a resident assistant in Newport Hall.
Gourlay, having been born in Alaska and raised in Durban, South Africa, has spent the last four years residing in Southern California. As she addressed her peers, she reflected on her journey and expressed mixed emotions about leaving Vanguard, describing the university as a familiar and safe space that has shaped her college experience. Following graduation, she is set to further her education at Northeastern University on the East Coast.
The commencement address was delivered by Howard Booker, a Vanguard alumnus who graduated with a Master’s in Business Administration in 2008. Currently serving as the executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation, Booker is committed to assisting youth in foster care and homelessness. In his speech, he inspired graduates to view their struggles as integral parts of their narratives, emphasizing that overcoming challenges can enhance the sweetness of their achievements.
This year’s graduation activities encapsulated a pivotal moment for both graduates and the wider university community. The collective celebration not only honored individual accomplishments but also strengthened the bond among students, faculty, and families during this significant transition in their lives.
With graduation season officially underway, Vanguard University stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of its students, who have now equipped themselves with the necessary knowledge and skills to embark on new journeys. As each graduate enters the next chapter of their lives, the university remains a proud foundation that has shaped their educational paths.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Vanguard University Graduation
- Google Search: Vanguard University graduation
- OC Register: Woodbridge High Graduation 2025
- Google Scholar: graduation ceremonies
- OC Register: Rob Bonta Commencement Address
- Encyclopedia Britannica: commencement ceremony
- NBC Los Angeles: Commencement Inside Prison Walls
- Google News: Commencement ceremonies California
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
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