Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) held its 65th Commencement ceremony on May 3, 2025, celebrating the graduation of 421 students. The event took place in the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Auditorium and included both traditional on-campus students and those who completed online programs through the School of Graduate and Professional Studies and the International Executive Studies programs.
Dr. Carson Castleman, President of MVNU, addressed the graduates, emphasizing their accomplishments and future potential. “Today marks a significant milestone in your academic journey — a momentous occasion where your hard work, your perseverance, and your dedication culminate,” he stated. He encouraged graduates to carry forward values such as integrity, compassion, and service.
Ked Frank, an alumnus from the class of '99 and president of Safe Places for Women, served as the commencement speaker. He urged graduates to be grateful, humble, and willing as they embark on their new paths. “Graduates go! Go, go, go! And take what this place has invested in you and build on it," Frank said.
The Baccalaureate Service was held the night before with Dr. Gary Sivewright speaking to the graduates. Sivewright challenged them to seek miracles in every situation and trust in God’s plan for them. “Here is my prayer for you, Class of 2025," he said. "I hope you’ve learned to expect great things from God because you know He can."
The ceremonies were recorded for on-demand viewing at mvnu.tv, with photos available at flickr.com/photos/mvnumarketing/.
