VU will confer 1,850 degrees during four special virtual commencement ceremonies showcasing the success and accomplishments of the Class of 2021. Degrees will be awarded to students representing 86 of Indiana’s 92 counties, 24 states, and eight countries.

VU’s Commencement ceremonies are virtual for all to celebrate in a manner that is safe and unforgettable. As steps are continuously being taken on the path to normalcy, the University is looking forward to once again honoring graduates with in-person traditional ceremonies.

There will be four virtual ceremonies specifically for the Vincennes Campus, Vincennes University Jasper Campus, the Aviation Technology Center in Indianapolis, and the American Sign Language and Deaf Studies Program in Indianapolis.

The virtual ceremonies will premiere on the VU YouTube Channel on Saturday, May 15 at 8 a.m. ET.

Commencement marks a momentous occasion for graduates. They will be hailed for their resilience and grit, celebrated for achieving their goals, and encouraged to make the world a better place by living up to the University motto, “Learn in Order to Serve.” 

Dr. Laura Treanor

Presiding over the ceremonies will be Dr. Laura Treanor, Provost and Vice President of Instructional Services, and Dean of Faculty. VU President Dr. Chuck Johnson will give a greeting.

Commencement speakers will include six students who were chosen to share inspiring words and messages with their graduating peers. Kenzie Black of Oblong, Illinois will represent the American Sign Language and Deaf Studies Program. Keyerra Buckley of Fort Pierce, Florida (Pharmacy Technology) and Grace Jones of Bicknell, Indiana (Education) are representing the Vincennes Campus. Sabrina Duprey of Indianapolis (Aviation Flight) and Cooper Gray of Greenfield, Indiana (Aviation Maintenance) will represent the ATC. Justin Miller of Santa Claus, Indiana (Electronics Technology) will represent the VU Jasper Campus.

Welcome addresses will be given by VU Jasper Assistant Vice President and Dean Christian Blome, ATC Director Michael Gehrich, and ASL & Deaf Studies Department Chair Dr. Cynthia Sanders.

VU alumnus Will Akins will sing the national anthem. Director of Student Activities Annie Garner will present the Gold and White Cord Awards. Executive Director of VU Foundation and Senior Director of Institutional Advancement Kristi Deetz will induct the graduates into the VU Alumni Association.

As graduates, families, and friends celebrate, use hashtag #VUTrailblazer on social media and share photos, videos, congratulatory messages.

“It is with deep admiration for the members of the Class of 2021 that I offer my sincere congratulations,” Treanor said. “You have accomplished so much while navigating a new world! On behalf of the Faculty and staff, we are proud of all that you have accomplished. Life has many wonderful things in store for you, so go forth and blaze your trail, Graduates! Stay in touch and let us know what you've accomplished. We are always happy to learn how our graduates are making positive changes in the world."

Details about VU’s Commencement can be found at https://www.vinu.edu/commencement.

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