Standout Stories from Bellevue University's 2024 Winter Commencement

Bellevue University's winter commencement ceremony for the class of 2024 was a celebration of academic achievement and personal resilience. From professionals seeking to enhance their skills to individuals overcoming significant challenges, each graduate had a unique narrative to share.

Among the stories highlighted during the ceremony was Lance Stokes, an octogenarian with a wealth of academic accomplishments already to his name. Despite his age and extensive experience, Stokes felt compelled to pursue further education, enrolling in Bellevue University's Sustainability Management program. As a director at an environmental engineering firm in Michigan, Stokes sought to deepen his impact in his field, demonstrating that one is never too old to pursue new horizons. View his testimonial below.

Similarly inspiring was the journey of Jeanette Wachtel, who battled addiction for 25 years along with homelessness before finding solace in education. Recognizing the need for change in her life, Wachtel seized the opportunity to pursue her studies at Bellevue University, leveraging the flexibility of the institution's online programs to accommodate her everyday life. View her testimonial below.

For Charles Sisson, a transfer student from New York, Bellevue University's credit transfer process provided a smooth transition to his new academic home. With all his credits accepted, Sisson was able to seamlessly continue his education without the burden of starting over. View his testimonial below. 

Sheena Bartlett, a mother of three, persevered through various challenges while pursuing her degree. Bartlett credited Bellevue University's online program for its flexibility, enabling her to balance her studies with the demands of everyday life. View her testimonial below. 

With diplomas in hand, the class of 2024 embarks on new journeys, ready to make their mark on the world.