Methodist University Honors the Inspiring Class of 2025 at Commencement Ceremony

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – May 3, 2025 – Cheers filled the Crown Coliseum Complex as over 500 graduates from Methodist University celebrated their big day. Family, friends, faculty, and staff came together to mark the achievements of students receiving degrees from associate to doctoral levels.

“Congratulations, graduates!” said President Dr. Stanley T. Wearden, kicking off the 62nd annual ceremony. “We are proud of what you’ve accomplished.”

This year’s ceremony highlighted the university’s diversity with the presentation of international flags. MU has over 100 international students and has been named the most diverse university in North Carolina by Niche College Rankings for two out of the last three years. Five new flags were added to the display, bringing the total to 131.

Scott Hamilton, president and CEO of the Golden LEAF Foundation, delivered an inspiring keynote speech. He received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree for his leadership in improving economic opportunities in North Carolina’s rural areas. “You don’t have to change the whole world,” Hamilton told graduates. “But you can change someone’s world. That’s where the work begins.”

Rebekah Haigler was celebrated for her outstanding service to others, receiving the Mary Mildred Sullivan Award. A faculty member called her the ideal student every professor hopes to teach.

The ceremony included a special moment where graduates received their diplomas and were hooded by their sponsors—often family or faculty members who supported their journey. This highlights the personal connections that make graduation special.

Graduate Kiley Hicks, who shared her thoughts during the “Moment of Gratitude and Blessing,” expressed her pride. “As a first-generation college student, I’m so thankful for my journey here at MU. I feel prepared for what comes next,” she said.

As the tassels turned and cheers erupted, President Wearden left the graduates with a lasting message: “We want you to have rewarding careers, but more importantly, we want you to go out into the world and make it better. We’re counting on you.”

About Methodist University

Methodist University is an independent four-year school with around 2,000 students from over 50 countries. Offering more than 80 degree programs, MU has been ranked the “No. 1 Most Diverse University in North Carolina” two of the past three years. The university is home to over 75 student organizations and 20 NCAA sports teams, showcasing a vibrant campus life.

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