News Summary
Vanguard University celebrated its first commencement ceremony at Mariners Church in Irvine, honoring 514 graduates. Among them were 361 members of the Class of 2025, with ceremonies emphasizing academic achievements, personal growth, and community support. Noteworthy speakers included University President Michael Beals and MBA graduate Howard Booker, who inspired attendees with their addresses. Graduates transition into their next life stages, carrying fond memories and friendships from their time at Vanguard.
Irvine Celebrates Vanguard University Graduation with 514 Students
May marks the onset of graduation season, and Vanguard University made a significant mark by holding its first commencement ceremony at Mariners Church in Irvine. A total of 514 graduates were honored during the event, with 361 members of the Class of 2025 participating in the morning ceremony. The afternoon ceremony recognized 53 professional education undergraduates and 100 graduate students.
University President Michael Beals presided over the morning ceremony, personally handing diplomas to the graduates. Notably, Amberly Gourlay, the student speaker at the morning ceremony, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science, and minored in theology and public policy. Gourlay, who served as the student body president, has spent the last four years in Southern California after being born in Alaska and raised in Durban, South Africa. Throughout her time at Vanguard, she was actively involved as a College Corps resident, a fellow, and a resident assistant in Newport Hall on campus.
In her address to her peers, Gourlay expressed bittersweet feelings about leaving Vanguard, describing it as a familiar and protective environment. Following her graduation, she plans to attend graduate school at Northeastern University on the East Coast to further her education.
The commencement address was delivered by Howard Booker, a graduate of Vanguard’s MBA program from 2008. As the executive director of the In-N-Out Burger Foundation, Booker works with youth in foster care and encouraged graduates to remember that their challenges do not define their futures. His remarks resonated with many attendees, adding inspiration to this milestone moment for the graduates.
A Commitment to Educational Mission
This ceremony marks an important milestone for Vanguard University, reinforcing its commitment to its educational mission while celebrating the achievements of its students. As graduates embark on their next steps, the university continues to foster an environment geared towards personal and intellectual growth.
The success of Vanguard University’s Class of 2025 represents the culmination of years of study, dedication, and hard work. The presence of family and friends during the ceremonies highlighted the community support that surrounds these graduates as they step into their future endeavors.
The event at Mariners Church not only celebrated academic achievements but also emphasized resilience and personal growth, reminding all in attendance of the shared bonds formed within the Vanguard community. As they transition into life after graduation, students leave with memories, friendships, and a strong foundation instilled by their experiences at Vanguard University.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Vanguard University Receives Grant to Support Former Foster Youth
Orange County Launches Program to Combat Human Trafficking
Vanguard University Achieves Full NCAA Division II Membership
Vanguard University Celebrates Graduation of Class of 2025
Vanguard University Receives $900,000 Grant for Foster Youth Support
Vanguard University Celebrates Graduation of Latino Students
Vanguard University Achieves NCAA Division II Membership
Vanguard University Celebrates 514 Graduates at Commencement Ceremony
Vanguard University Receives $900,000 Grant for Foster Youth
UCLA Men’s Volleyball Concludes Season with NCAA Tournament Loss
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Vanguard University Celebrates Class of 2025
- Los Angeles Times: Vanguard Peer Educators Teach About Human Trafficking
- ABC7: Kamala Harris at Compton High School Graduation
- Wikipedia: Vanguard University
- Google Search: Vanguard University Graduation 2025
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.
