News Summary
Vanguard University held its commencement ceremony at Mariners Church, honoring the 514 graduates of the Class of 2025. The event was split into two gatherings, featuring speeches and reflections from students and esteemed alumni. Amberly Gourlay, a standout student and former student body president, expressed her heartfelt sentiments about her university experience. The message of resilience was emphasized by keynote speaker Howard Booker as graduates prepare to embark on new journeys, equipped with skills and experiences fostering both professional and personal growth.
Irvine – Graduation season officially began this May, as Vanguard University celebrated the achievements of its Class of 2025 during a commencement ceremony at Mariners Church. A total of 514 graduates received diplomas, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys.
The commencement ceremony was divided into two separate events. In the morning, 361 members of the Class of 2025 participated, receiving their diplomas from university President Michael Beals. The afternoon ceremony featured 53 professional education undergraduates and 100 graduate students, rounding out the day’s celebrations.
Among the graduates, Amberly Gourlay served as the student speaker during the morning session. Gourlay graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science, also earning minors in theology and public policy. Previously, she held the position of student body president at Vanguard and has spent the last four years in Southern California, after being born in Alaska and raised in Durban, South Africa. Gourlay was also active on campus, serving as a College Corps resident and fellow, as well as a resident assistant in Newport Hall.
As she reflected on her time at Vanguard, Gourlay expressed a bittersweet sentiment about leaving a place that had become her home. She plans to further her education by attending graduate school at Northeastern University in the East Coast. Gourlay described Vanguard as a supportive environment that facilitated her personal growth and spiritual development, allowing her to navigate a different culture comfortably.
The commencement address was delivered by Howard Booker, a Vanguard alumnus and executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation. He focused on the theme of resilience, encouraging graduates to remember that challenges do not define them but rather contribute to their overall life narrative.
Founded as a private Christian institution, Vanguard University has a long-standing tradition of empowering students through academic rigor and spiritual development. The university emphasizes the importance of producing graduates who are not only skilled in their professions but also engaged in their communities and prepared to tackle future challenges.
This year’s commencement ceremonies highlight not only the achievements of the graduates but also the broader mission of Vanguard University to foster an educational environment rooted in Christian values. The successful graduation of 514 students emphasizes the university’s commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth.
As the Class of 2025 embarks on their next chapters, they carry with them the lessons, friendships, and experiences gathered during their time at Vanguard. Whether they pursue further education or enter the workforce, these graduates are prepared to make their mark in the world, backed by the education and support provided by Vanguard University.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Vanguard University Kicks Off Graduation Season
- Wikipedia: Graduation
- ABC7: Kamala Harris’ Surprise Appearance at Graduation
- Google Search: Graduation Season Ceremonies
- CUI Golden Eagles: Women’s Soccer Signs Pro Contract
- Google Scholar: Graduation Ceremony
- OC Register: Photos from Vanguard University Graduation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Graduation
- Los Angeles Times: Vanguard Peer Educators Teach About Human Trafficking
- Google News: Vanguard University
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