July 22, 2025

Vanguard University Celebrates Graduation for Class of 2025

News Summary

Vanguard University honored 514 graduates from the Class of 2025 during its commencement ceremony at Mariners Church. The event featured student speaker Amberly Gourlay and a motivational address by alumnus Howard Booker. Emphasizing the bonds formed during their studies, the graduates prepared to embark on their future endeavors. With its commitment to holistic education, Vanguard continues to support students in various disciplines.

Irvine – Vanguard University celebrated the graduation of a total of 514 students from the Class of 2025 during its commencement ceremony held at the Mariners Church on Thursday, marking the beginning of graduation season for local schools. The morning ceremony welcomed 361 graduates, while an additional 153 graduates participated in the afternoon session, which included 53 professional education undergraduates and 100 graduate students.

At the event, Vanguard University President Michael Beals had the honor of distributing diplomas to the graduates. Among them was Amberly Gourlay, the student speaker for the morning ceremony. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in history and political science, with minors in theology and public policy. Gourlay has an extensive background at Vanguard, having served as the student body president, working as a College Corps resident and fellow, and serving as a resident assistant in Newport Hall.

Gourlay, who has resided in Southern California for the last four years, originally hails from Alaska and was raised in Durban, South Africa. As she concluded her time at Vanguard University, she reflected on her experience as both bittersweet and challenging, emphasizing the strong bonds she developed over her four years at the institution. Looking ahead, Gourlay plans to further her education at Northeastern University on the East Coast.

The commencement address was delivered by Howard Booker, an alumnus of Vanguard University, who received his MBA in 2008. Now serving as the executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation, Booker is actively involved in supporting youth in foster care and individuals experiencing homelessness. His speech aimed to inspire the graduates by encouraging them to recognize that while heartache and trauma are part of their narratives, these experiences do not define who they are.

This annual commencement event at Vanguard University not only celebrated student achievements but also served as a significant milestone in their educational journeys. The total number of graduates this year, reaching 514, signifies the university’s continuing commitment to nurturing and educating its students across diverse disciplines.

Vanguard University is known for its focus on holistic education, promoting both academic excellence and spiritual growth. Graduates, like Gourlay, expressed gratitude for the supportive environment that fostered their personal and professional development. The university’s unique programs and community atmosphere have positioned it as a leading institution within the local educational landscape.

As graduation ceremonies for various institutions continue throughout May, Vanguard University stands out by being the first local school to hold its commencement this season. With the ceremony now concluded, graduates head into the next chapter of their lives, equipped with the skills and experiences they garnered over their years at Vanguard. The Class of 2025 is poised to make positive contributions to society as they embark on their future endeavors.

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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.

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