VINCENNES, Ind– Vincennes University’s newest graduates are poised to blaze their trails. They were celebrated at the 2025 Mid-Year Commencement on Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center on the Vincennes Campus.
VU conferred a total of 436 bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and certificates during commencement. Interim Provost Jaci Lederman presided over the ceremony. Graduates represented the Vincennes Campus, American Sign Language and Deaf Studies in Indianapolis, Aviation Technology Center in Indianapolis, Distance Education, Early College, VU Jasper, and Military Education.
The Mid-Year Class of 2025 included graduates from 52 of Indiana’s 92 counties, 22 states, and two other countries.
VU President Dr. Chuck Johnson, addressing the graduates, quoted author and pastor Rick Warren in his greetings to the class, exhorting them to embrace humility.
Johnson shared, “Rick Warren says, “Humility isn’t thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.”
He then highlighted how VU’s motto aligns with the quality of humility.
Johnson said, “Vincennes University’s motto, “Learn In Order To Serve,” is grounded in humility, understanding that we are here for more than just ourselves. We are here to make a difference. We are here to contribute. We are here to build a better platform for those that come behind us so they can rise even higher. I encourage you to have the confidence to be humble. I encourage you to have the courage to be humble. Don’t be afraid. Being humble isn’t about not being seen. Being humble isn’t about not being heard. Being humble is understanding your worth and being confident that others don’t need to reinforce it for you. Giving is a lot more satisfying than receiving. Giving to the world. Giving to those around you. Helping others succeed is the highest and most noble thing we can do as a human species. Please go forth with all the great tools, knowledge, and wisdom that you’ve gained at Vincennes University and go forth humbly to serve.”
