News Summary
Vanguard University held its commencement ceremonies at Mariners Church, honoring 514 graduates across multiple programs. The day featured ceremonies for the Class of 2025, professional education undergraduates, and graduate students. President Michael Beals and student speaker Amberly Gourlay celebrated the journey and resilience of the graduates, emphasizing the community spirit and the significance of education in personal growth as students prepare for their futures.
Irvine, California – Vanguard University celebrated the graduation of 514 students during its commencement ceremonies held at Mariners Church on Thursday. This year’s festivities marked a significant milestone for graduates across various programs, with distinct ceremonies taking place throughout the day.
The morning ceremony honored 361 graduates from the Class of 2025, while 53 professional education undergraduates received their diplomas. An afternoon ceremony was dedicated to 100 graduate students, bringing together a diverse group of individuals embarking on their next chapter after completing their studies.
University President Michael Beals presided over the event, distributing diplomas to the newly minted graduates of the Class of 2025, a moment that symbolized their transition away from undergraduate life. This year’s student speaker, Amberly Gourlay, shared her insights and experiences from her time at Vanguard with her peers.
Gourlay graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science, alongside a minor in theology and public policy. During her time at the university, she also took on leadership roles as student body president and served as a resident assistant. Originally from Alaska and raised in Durban, South Africa, she made her home at Vanguard and in Southern California for the past four years. As she prepared to leave, Gourlay expressed a bittersweet sentiment, reflecting on how Vanguard has been a safe and nurturing environment for her during her studies.
Looking ahead, Amberly Gourlay plans to further her education by attending graduate school at Northeastern University located on the East Coast, continuing her commitment to academic and personal growth.
The commencement address was delivered by Howard Booker, a distinguished alumnus of Vanguard University who earned his MBA in 2008. As the executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation, Booker shared vital lessons of resilience and encouraged graduates to embrace their stories, recognizing that many may have faced challenges such as heartache, loss, and trauma throughout their journeys.
This year’s graduation ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievements but also served as a reflection of the vibrant community within Vanguard University. The event attracted not only graduates and their families but also faculty, staff, and supporters celebrating the accomplishments of these individuals.
Graduation season traditionally kicks off in May, with several universities across the area holding ceremonies to recognize their students’ hard work and dedication. The celebrations at Vanguard University contribute to the broader educational landscape in Orange County, promoting community engagement and support for higher education.
In addition to the ceremonies, residents of Orange County were reminded of local events and important updates, fostering a sense of involvement and awareness in the community. Events like the Vanguard commencement encapsulate the spirit of community, growth, and the importance of education in shaping the futures of young individuals.
As the graduates of Vanguard University take their next steps into the world, they carry forward with them not just their degrees, but the experiences and memories cultivated during their time at the university. The event marks an end to one chapter and the beginning of another, filled with opportunities for innovation and personal development.
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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.
