Anderson University held its annual Senior and Honors Convocation Chapel on Thursday morning in Reardon Auditorium. The event recognized outstanding academic achievement among students and honored members of the graduating class of 2025.
The ceremony began with a welcome and prayer led by President John S. Pistole. Samuel Cho, class of 2025, read The Great Commission from Matthew 28:16-20. Holly Henke, also of the class of 2025, led the hymn “And Can It Be That I Should Gain,” accompanied by organist Mary Raga Yetter.
Faculty entered the auditorium in full academic regalia, wearing the traditional cap and gown worn at commencement ceremonies.
Students were honored for their academic successes, including recognition of those in academic honor societies, Honors Program scholars, and Center for Public Service fellows. Tentative Latin honors were also acknowledged.
Seven students were recognized for achieving a perfect 4.0 cumulative GPA: Zoe Sophia Cook, Hannah Louise Gates, Jacob Daniel Keith, Layla Ann Pennington, Thomas Michael Reed, Jaden Lee Soller, and Terry Whitted III.
Student Government Association President Korey Rees presented Dr. Jason Varner with the H.L. Baker Award for outstanding faculty service and dedication to the university community. Campus pastor Josh Tandy earned the H.L. Baker Award for outstanding staff service and dedication.
Professor of Teacher Education Dr. Jeff Trotter offered reflections to the graduating class, expressing gratitude for the students’ impact on campus life. “When I look out to the faces—some I know, some I don’t—every time I think of Paul, I think of you, and I am grateful,” Trotter said.
Two senior speakers addressed their peers. Anna Pescio, an English Language Arts Education major from Carmel, Indiana, delivered a heartfelt speech on unity. She reflected on a past Tri-S trip to China, sharing a moment when a Chinese student sang karaoke with a Taiwanese student to symbolize togetherness. “Our goal should be great unity and understanding wherever we go,” Pescio said.
Jaden Soller, a National Security and Cybersecurity major from Hudson, Indiana, offered a thoughtful address about resilience and preparation. “We all need a life incident response plan,” she said. “When you succeed, people want to know about it. As a community, we want to hear about when you win and comfort you when you fail.”
Following the chapel service, graduates continued the Anderson tradition of walking to Pioneer Rock, the landmark they visited as incoming first-year students. The event concluded with a walk to Boyes House, where President Pistole and his wife Kathy reside, to receive their caps and gowns and share a meal.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025!