Highlights from Buena Vista University’s 2025 Commencement Ceremonies

May 15, 2025

Buena Vista University (BVU) celebrated its 134th Commencement Ceremony on May 3, honoring more than 600 graduates during two ceremonies that reflected the heart of BVU's mission and values.

Throughout the weekend, speakers shared powerful messages centered on community, perseverance, and purpose, encouraging graduates to embrace collaboration, continue learning, and carry BVU's spirit of service into every new chapter.

Below are some highlights from the inspiring speeches delivered during Commencement weekend.

Madalyn Elwood, 2025 Undergraduate Student Speaker

"That's why community, as one of BV's core values, aligns with our motto "Education for Service," because true service isn't just about what we do, but who we do it with. Serving alongside others here has shaped us into people who will make a difference beyond this campus. So, as we move forward, I encourage you to seek out a community wherever you go."

Courtney Anders, 2025 Undergraduate Commencement Speaker

"Sometimes the most meaningful roles are the ones behind the scenes-quietly, steadily shaping the story. Don't be afraid to change the script, ask for another take or shoot from a different angle. Make a blooper or two. Be ready to perform when life calls 'action.'
But above all-
Find your crew.
Keep them close.
And remember: You are not making this show alone."

Sarah Howk, M.S.Ed. '25, 2025 Graduate Commencement Student Speaker

"And isn't that the essence of what we've all pursued here at BVU? No matter our field-whether education, business, counseling, or beyond-we are all in the business of making a difference. We are all here because we believe in something greater than ourselves.

That's what it means to be a BVU Beaver. If you know anything about beavers, you know they are relentless builders. They don't wait for the perfect moment or ideal conditions; they see a challenge and get right to work. They create, they adapt, and they leave their environment better than they found it. That is who we are."

Dr. Kevin Pernick '17, M.A. '19, 2025 Graduate Commencement Speaker

"Being comfortable feels nice but being pushed outside of your comfort zone leads to growth. You wouldn't be here today if you didn't embrace challenges. Let me tell you that that is a skill that will take you far in life.

As you go from here, the question becomes how do we put our education into practice? One way is to continue learning. Having an advanced degree may make you a subject matter expert, but it also means you are a learning expert. Question everything. You know how to find answers. Continue to learn everything you can about anything you can."

Access the full undergraduate and graduate ceremonies by visiting bvu.edu/commencement.