May 2025 Commencement: York College Honors its Graduating Class of 2025 with Two Ceremonies
For the first time ever, York College will be hosting two graduation ceremonies to celebrate the achievements of over 500 graduating seniors.
Today, on May 17th, 2025, York College of Pennsylvania celebrated its May 2025 Commencement exercises with over 500 graduates crossing the stage at Grumbacher Sport and Fitness Center.
Two ceremonies were held for the first time in York College history. The first, held in the morning, was for the School of the Arts, Communication and Global Studies, the School of Behavioral Sciences and Education, and the Kinsley School of Engineering, Sciences and Technology. The second, held in the afternoon, was for the Graham School of Business, the Dr. Donald E. and Lois J. Meyers School of Nursing and Health Professions, and the Associates.
York College President Dr. Thomas D. Burns welcomed the students, staff, faculty, and guests in attendance at both ceremonies, thanking them for their contributions to York College and for helping the students get to where they are now.
“Today is an extraordinary day — a chance to celebrate the achievements of our students and to wish them well as they step into the next chapter of their lives,” Dr. Burns said in his opening remarks. “Our graduates have set goals, worked hard to achieve them, and are ready to take on the world. We have watched them grow and mature —becoming more resilient and confident through collaboration, perseverance, and purpose.”
Following his speech, Dr. Burns led the audience in acknowledging the impact of two York College professors, Frederick W. Becker, Ph.D., MALS., BSBA, and Jefrey R. Woodall, DBA, who will be retiring after their years of service to the College and its students.
Senior class president Kassandra Morgan ‘25, a Criminology and Criminal Justice major, delivered her own remarks during the morning ceremony. She spoke on the daunting question of “Who do I want to be?” and how graduates should focus on holding their heads up high while being true to themselves.
“So yes, my best piece of advice to you all is to figure out who you are and strive to be that person unapologetically,” Kassandra said. “Stand on your morals and your beliefs, not on the backs of those you tear down. And stand up for yourself, because take it from me - well-behaved women seldom make history.”
“Class of 2025, as we move beyond classroom halls and campus doors, the degrees we earn today matter. The hard work you all put in these past four long years matters. But more than anything—who we are, each and every one of us, matters.”
At the afternoon ceremony, senior class vice president Vandelyn Brown ‘25, a Healthcare Administration major, addressed her class. She shared some of the struggles she faced during her college years and how she overcame them, emboldening her class to never give up on their goals, even when times are tough.
“My fellow classmates, sometimes you think your business is yours to keep, when yet it can be used as a source of growth,” Vandelyn said. “We must follow through on our goals in all seasons, no matter the obstacles. Know that you are bigger than your situation, and it is just another hurdle that you will overcome no matter what you are told, your voice matters.”
York College alumni were also present to greet the commencement attendees. Michelle Shellenberger ‘89, Director of Alumni Relations, encouraged graduates to reflect on their time at York College and not to forget that they are not alone; an entire network of alumni is waiting to support them on their next steps.
“As you step into this next chapter, take a moment to reflect on your time here—the friendships you’ve made, the late nights in the library, the lessons learned inside and outside the classroom,” Shellenberger said. “These memories will stay with you, shaping who you are and where you’re headed…Wherever life takes you, you always have the Spartan family cheering you on.”
Heidi Freeland-Trail, SHRM-CP, M.S. ‘11, Alumni Board and York College Alumni Association member, shared words with the graduates at the afternoon ceremony. She congratulated the students on all of their accomplishments and reminded them that they are entering a world that needs their spirits now more than ever.
“Now, as we leave campus and look ahead, remember that success is not just measured by your accomplishments, but by the lives you touch, the values you uphold, and the challenges that you dare to take on,” Freeland-Trail said. “Embrace the moments of uncertainty—there will be many—they are where growth happens. Lead with empathy, listen with intention, and never underestimate the power of your unique voice.”
“Stay curious. Stay connected. And most importantly, stay who you are.”
Following the student and alumni remarks, Dr. Burns also announced that Paul J. Ackerman, Jr., Ph.D., P.E., was the recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Faculty Scholarship and Special Activities. Dr. Jefrey R. Woodall was also named as the recipient of the Presidential Community Service Honor Award.
The May 2025 Commencement Address was given by Attorney General of Pennsylvania, David W. Sunday. In his speech, Attorney General Sunday spoke of his journey and the work he does for the state of Pennsylvania, and how, at the core of his determination, he wants to help build a community that is safe for everyone.
Most of all, he emboldened graduates to be the change they want to see in the world. Regardless of where they are now or what their backgrounds are, everyone can do great things and make a difference in the lives of others, big or small.
“Change starts at home. It starts in your street. It starts in your neighborhood. It starts right here in your community,” Attorney General Sunday said. “We all may be different in our interests and qualities, strengths and weaknesses, but I am going to bet we all have something in common: we want the world to be better for everyone around us, for our family, and for our children.”
“That change we all want to make? That change you want to see around the nation, around the world? It starts right here with you right now.”
On behalf of the faculty and staff at York College, we wish our graduating Class of 2025 the best in all of their future endeavors and career paths. Congratulations, seniors, on all you have and will continue to accomplish!
