More Than 500 Grads Set to Participate in Bellevue University’s Winter Commencement
January 25 Ceremony Livestream Available for Family and Friends Unable to Attend in Person
On Saturday, Jan. 25, over 500 Bellevue University students will receive their diplomas during the University’s winter commencement ceremony at the Mid-America Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
The ceremony will begin at 9:10 a.m. with a procession of graduates, followed by the program at 9:30 a.m. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be live-streamed.
According to University Registrar Colette Lewis, Bellevue University conferred 821 degrees between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31, 2024, including 570 undergraduate, 249 graduate, and 2 doctoral degrees. The University now boasts over 70,000 graduates worldwide.
This year’s student commencement speaker is Nyasha St. Arromand-Wells, a U.S. Air Force veteran and native of Haiti. St. Arromand-Wells, who will earn her Master of Science in Criminal Justice, has overcome significant challenges on her journey to academic success.
Growing up, St. Arromand-Wells was often labeled a troublemaker in the classroom—a mischaracterization rooted in undiagnosed ADHD, autism, and dyscalculia. Despite these early challenges, she persevered, determined to pursue her education and thrive.
She credits Bellevue University’s open access policy with giving her a second chance. Drawing on the Haitian proverb, “piti piti wazo fè nich li” -"little by little, the bird builds its nest"- she hopes to inspire her fellow graduates to persevere and build their futures, one step at a time.
"Pursuing education is about opening doors to the future. It takes dedication and hard work, but those efforts lead to opportunities that make the challenges worthwhile and bring a sense of achievement," said University President Dr. Mary Hawkins.
The ceremony will also feature commencement speaker Diane Mendenhall, President of the Omaha Supernovas. A Nebraska native, Mendenhall guided the team to a League Championship during the Pro Volleyball Federation's inaugural season, showcasing her leadership and commitment to success.
In addition, all graduates and their guests are invited to an Open House on Friday, Jan. 24, from 4–7 p.m. at the Margre H. Durham Student Center on the University’s campus in Bellevue. The event will feature refreshments, campus tours, and opportunities to connect with instructors and classmates.
For more information about the winter commencement ceremony, visit the Complete Guide online.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 70,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 85 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).