With grace, reflection, and a voice tinged with emotion, President John S. Pistole addressed the graduating Class of 2025 for the final time during Anderson University’s 107th Commencement ceremony Saturday afternoon in Reardon Auditorium.
This year’s commencement marked more than just the closing of a chapter for over 300 graduates—it also served as Pistole’s last public appearance. Pistole is retiring after serving a decade as president of the university he attended as a student.
The ceremony began with a traditional academic procession. Graduates earning master’s degrees led the procession, followed by undergraduate candidates, faculty members, and the Board of Trustees. The momentous atmosphere was amplified by the knowledge that this would be the final time Pistole would lead such a gathering.
Pistole, who graduated from Anderson University in 1978 and later served in the FBI and as administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), returned to his alma mater in 2015 as its fifth president. Over the past 10 years, he has overseen substantial growth and academic innovation, adding 17 new undergraduate majors.
“Students hold a very special place in President Pistole’s heart,” said the Rev. Dr. Douglas L. Talley, the outgoing chair of the Board of Trustees, who reflected on Pistole’s enduring impact. “In response, they have affectionately named him ‘PJP.’”
Pistole’s opening remarks extended a heartfelt welcome to graduates, faculty, staff, and families. He expressed gratitude for those who supported the Class of 2025 and encouraged graduates to pause and thank mentors, friends, and loved ones who helped them reach this milestone.
Following his welcome, the audience sang the hymn “How Great Thou Art.” Dr. Leanne V. Ketchem, assistant professor of preaching and practical theology, offered the opening prayer.
The Scripture readings included Jeremiah 29:11-13, read by Kimberly A. Butler, a Master of Divinity candidate, and Romans 15:1-6, 13, read by fellow M.Div. candidate Alexander Smith Jr.
Renowned Christian songwriter and speaker Dr. Gloria L. Gaither delivered the baccalaureate message. Instead of a formal speech, Gaither shared poetic reflections through lyrics, reminding listeners that “Now is forever and eternity is right here.”
Dr. Brent A. Baker, vice president for advancement, presented Lorraine Renee Hull-Allen with an honorary Master of Ministry degree in recognition of her contributions to ministry and service.
Pistole then returned to the podium to deliver his final commencement address. Drawing from personal experience and spiritual reflection, he asked the graduating class three thought-provoking questions, the most important of which was: “Where is God in your plans?”
He challenged the graduates to center their next steps in faith, purpose, and service. “Success isn’t simply about titles or income,” he said. “It’s about how you impact the lives around you and remain rooted in what truly matters.”
Pistole’s words resonated deeply with those in attendance, many of whom gave a standing ovation.
A musical selection titled “I Am a Child of God,” performed by Anderson University students, followed the address, further stirring emotion among the audience.
Dr. Nathan J. Willowby, dean of the College of Christian Ministry and the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, conferred degrees upon the graduating class. With great reverence, Pistole awarded diplomas for the final time as university president.
Trent R. Palmer, director of alumni relations, then officially welcomed the new graduates into Anderson University’s alum network, a family of over 25,000 alumni worldwide.
The ceremony closed with a prayer and benediction delivered by Pistole himself, symbolizing the end of the event and an era. As he offered his final blessing, the auditorium was quiet, with every listener fully aware they were witnessing a historic farewell.
Pistole’s legacy at Anderson University is expected to leave a lasting imprint. His leadership was marked by integrity, vision, and a deep commitment to student growth and academic excellence.
As the Class of 2025 exited the auditorium into the soft gray of a cloudy spring afternoon, they carried with them their degrees and the enduring message from a president who led with faith: to seek God in all things—and to walk boldly into the future.