More Than 800 Students to Graduate at Bellevue University’s Spring Commencement
Can’t Make It in Person? Watch the June 7 Ceremony Livestream!
More than 800 students will graduate during Bellevue University’s Spring Commencement ceremony on June 7 at the Mid-America Center. The event will also be livestreamed, allowing friends and family to celebrate from anywhere. The ceremony highlights student achievement, resilience, and the University’s continued growth.
Key Facts
- More than 800 students will graduate on Saturday, June 7
- Ceremony held at Mid-America Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa
- Graduate procession begins at 9:10 a.m.; ceremony starts at 9:30 a.m.
- Student speaker: Starr Shamp, Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Commencement speaker: Dana C. Bradford, CEO and majority owner of C3 Brands
Celebrating Graduation and Student Achievement
On Saturday, June 7, more than 800 Bellevue University students will receive their diplomas during the University’s Spring Commencement ceremony at the Mid-America Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa. The event will begin at 9:10 a.m. with a procession of graduates, followed by the ceremony at 9:30 a.m., and will be live-streamed for those who cannot attend in person.
According to University Registrar Colette Lewis, Bellevue University conferred 1,889 degrees between Sept. 30, 2024 and April 30, 2025, including 1,286 undergraduate, 593 graduate and 10 doctoral degrees. With this milestone, the University now has over 70,000 graduates worldwide, reflecting its sustained impact on learners and professionals across the globe.
“What makes Bellevue University special is how it brings together people from every walk of life, who are inspired to work toward the same goal – earning a degree and building a better future,” said University President Dr. Mary Hawkins. “Students like Starr show us that when you are motivated, even the toughest parts of the journey have meaning.”
Inspiring Stories and Commencement Events
This year’s student commencement speaker is Starr Shamp, who earned her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Shamp’s journey through graduate school was anything but traditional. While pursuing her degree, she underwent treatment for stage IV breast cancer, maintained a full-time job, got married, and became a mother—all while staying focused on completing her education. She credits Bellevue University faculty and staff for their support and understanding, especially the encouragement to prioritize her well-being.
The commencement speaker will be Dana C. Bradford, CEO and majority owner of C3 Brands, a consumer goods company based in Omaha, Nebraska.
In addition to the main ceremony, Bellevue University will host its Doctoral Hooding Ceremony on Friday, June 6, at 5:35 p.m. on campus, with a livestream available via Zoom.
Graduates, families, and friends are also invited to an Open House earlier that day from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Margre H. Durham Student Center.
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).