Brevard – A historic milestone was reached at Brevard College as the Class of 2025 graduated during a vibrant Commencement Ceremony held on Saturday at Ives-Lemel Family Field. The event saw 171 Bachelor’s students and 20 Master’s students receive their degrees in front of a capacity crowd, marking one of the largest graduating classes in the college’s history.
Commencement Highlights
The ceremony commenced with the stirring sound of bagpipes, welcoming graduates clad in black regalia as they entered the field to the cheers of family and friends. Dr. Bradley J. Andrews, President of Brevard College, addressed the graduates, stating, “Graduates, you’ve made it… this is the moment where we celebrate all of your determination and hard work.” His words set a tone of pride and accomplishment for the day.
Following the opening address, Chief Faculty Marshal Dr. Mary Louise Bringle led the proceedings, which included an Invocation by The Rev. Dr. Sharad H. Creasman, BC’s Campus Minister. Dr. Jennifer Frick-Ruppert, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty, presented several prestigious awards to outstanding students.
Sophia Ogawa, a double major in Health Science and Psychology from Easley, South Carolina, and Sierethene Chepes, a Theatre major from Summerfield, North Carolina, were honored with the Presidential Award for Distinction. This award recognizes seniors who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and academic achievement during their time at Brevard College.
Grace Blanton received the C. Edward and Brona N. Roy Good Citizenship Award for her exemplary moral character and positive influence on campus. Blanton graduated as a double major in Wilderness Leadership & Experiential Education and Psychology, showcasing her commitment to both her studies and community.
Maddy Elliott (Biology; Hendersonville, North Carolina), Kevin Wright (Mathematics; Clover, South Carolina), and Lex MacLauchlin (Business & Organizational Leadership and Communication) were awarded the Presidential Award for Scholarship for achieving perfect 4.0 GPAs at Brevard College. Their academic excellence was celebrated as a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Student Leadership and Reflection
In a unique tradition, Brevard College invited graduating senior Haylea Layne Miller, the Student Government President for 2024-25, to deliver the commencement speech. Miller reflected on her journey and that of her peers, saying, “We grew in the classroom of course, but even more, we grew as people… We learned to advocate for ourselves and for others.” Her heartfelt message resonated with fellow graduates as they celebrated their collective growth.
After the speeches and awards, graduates walked across the stage to receive their diplomas from President Andrews. Notably, this year marked the first time Brevard College awarded Master of Business Administration degrees, with 13 MBA students receiving diplomas. Additionally, three students graduated with Bachelor’s degrees in Communication and Chemistry, further expanding the college’s academic offerings.
The Class of 2025 included over 20 graduates from Western North Carolina and represented a diverse group from 17 different states and five countries outside the U.S., including Brazil, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, and Ireland.
To conclude the ceremony, President Andrews charged the graduates to carry forward the spirit of service into their future endeavors. He stated, “Graduates, you now join a special group of people – the alumni of this small and mighty college.” The traditional Brevard College hymn “Guarded Well By Mountains” was led by Naomi Firebaugh ’25, who graduated with degrees in both Theatre and Music.
The festivities began with a Baccalaureate & Hooding Ceremony held on Friday afternoon in the Paul Porter Center for Performing Arts. Both events were live-streamed to allow family members and friends unable to attend in person to share in the celebration.
Brevard College’s commitment to fostering student growth and achievement was evident throughout the ceremony, highlighting not only academic success but also personal development among its graduates.