Thousands entered Worthen Arena May 3 for Ball State's 201th commencement ceremony. Smiling guests filled the arena seats as graduates filed onto the court floor, conversing with each other before the ceremony started.
Ball State Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Anand Marri opened the ceremony with a welcome, which was followed by the Presentation of the Colors and the National Anthem.
“Members of the faculty, graduates, parents and friends, this is a most happy day and we are glad to have all of you here to share in this important occasion. It is a very special time for you, who are graduating, and for your families and friends, we offer our warmest congratulations,” Marri said.
Ball State University President Geoffrey Mearns approached the podium and introduced the 2025 commencement speaker, Ball State alum Kayla Davion.
Davion started her speech by thanking God and President Mearns and shouting out the Theatre and Dance Department. She then spoke about her experience at Ball State and gave advice and appreciation to those graduating.
“You are each here because of this moment; it had to be you…each of y’all sitting here today has been through a major life event,” she said.
Davion said to redefine success and appreciate the communities around you. She said the world will challenge you, but do not let it minimize your light.
“Live in the totality of yourself. Be unafraid of the profound voice that you carry, because the inner parts of you are waiting to come alive,” Davion concluded.
Following Davion’s speech, Mearns and Marri invited candidates who will receive doctoral, education specialist, and master's degrees to rise and cross the platform.
34 undergraduate honor students were recognized, and six received presidential awards.
Those graduating with undergraduate degrees from each college were then asked to stand and move their tassels, signifying their accomplishments and success.
Mearns returned to the stage for his closing remarks.
“I encourage you to pursue a life of meaning. Life is a gift. Life is a precious gift and I believe that to lead a meaningful life you should share that gift with other people who need you,” Mearns said.
To conclude the ceremony, graduating students from the Theatre and Dance Department sang Ball State’s “We Fly anthem,” a commencement tradition.
Contact Jessica Bergfors via email at jessica.bergfors@bsu.edu
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