Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) honored the Class of 2025 on Saturday, May 3, during its 109th Commencement ceremonies held on the NNU campus Quad. Surrounded by faculty, staff, family and friends, approximately 390 graduates were recognized for completing undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees.
The Graduate and Professional Studies ceremony took place at noon, followed by the Traditional Undergraduate ceremony at 4:00 p.m. A Baccalaureate service was also held on Friday evening in the Brandt Center to celebrate and commission the undergraduate class.
Saturday’s events marked the final commencement led by NNU’s 13th president, Joel Pearsall, who has served the University as president since 2015. A 1980 graduate of NNU, Pearsall has participated in dozens of commencement celebrations throughout his decades of service and leadership.
“Seeing the smiles as I congratulate each graduate with a handshake, and recognizing each one’s accomplishments, is what brings me joy on this special day,” Pearsall said. “It’s a day that honors the hard work and dedication of each graduate, because each has reached an important milestone. We hope and pray that they leave NNU ready to be God’s creative and redemptive agents in the world.”
During the ceremonies, Pearsall was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in recognition of his years of service to the University and its students. Pearsall has served in several key leadership roles—including Chief Financial Officer, Vice President for University Advancement and ultimately as NNU’s 13th President. Over the past 26 years, he has played a significant role in the transformation of NNU’s campus, led major fundraising initiatives and remained a steadfast advocate for students, faculty and staff. His life and leadership have embodied NNU’s mission to be a redemptive force in the world, and the University is pleased to recognize his exemplary service and legacy.
To learn more about NNU’s Commencement Ceremonies or to watch a recording of the livestream, visit nnu.edu/commencement.
