CBU celebrates 2025 graduates in commencement ceremonies
Riverside, Calif. (April 30, 2025) – The Dale E. and Sarah Ann Fowler Events Center was filled with celebration during the five commencement ceremonies at California Baptist University on April 28-30. Graduates of the class of 2025 walked across the stage as family and friends cheered their success.
CBU celebrated the completion of degrees for 1,783 applicants. The combined applications for graduation consisted of 37 candidates for doctoral degrees, 606 for master’s degrees and 1,140 for undergraduate degrees.
Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president, honored the students’ efforts to earn their degrees and recognized their hard work.
“Each one has overcome obstacles to achieve this goal. Graduates, you have faced many difficulties and yet you persevered,” Ellis said. “The faculty and the entire university family join me in saying we are proud of you, and we pray God’s blessings upon you.”
Nancy Avera, a Board of Trustee member, gave an invocation. She told the graduates that they reached their accomplishment with help from others, perseverance and prayer.
“You have worked hard, and you've pressed through those long papers, those tough tests, the projects,” she said. “When you wondered if you could finish the race of college, God's grace said, ‘I'm not done yet.’ … Today we’re not just celebrating your achievements, we’re celebrating the faithfulness of our God who always finishes what He starts.”
During the ceremonies, CBU also recognized two students who achieved excellence in their academic accomplishments.
The 2025 Outstanding Senior Award went to Peyton Bell. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a minor in philosophy with a 4.0 GPA. She was inducted into both the Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society and the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society. She also served on the Student Senate.
Bernice Shamfuti, an international student from Zambia, received the Min Sung Kim International Student Award that is presented to an international student who has made outstanding contributions to the CBU community. A chemical engineering graduate, Shamfuti has also served on the Student Senate and worked at the International Center.
Noah Witt earned bachelor’s degrees in graphic design and visual experience and Christian studies. He said all his professors made an impact but Dirk Dallas, dean of the College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design tops the list.
“He has been incredibly supportive and encouraging, challenging me to grow and be the best I can be,” Witt said. “He helped me understand how my faith affects my creativity and what it looks like to live all that out. It’s been a joy to know him both in and out of the classroom.”
Carly Dirksen, who earned bachelor’s degrees in business administration and Christian studies, wants to work for a nonprofit.
“I hope to work for an organization that is passionate about helping others with the purpose of sharing God's love,” she said.
Madison Adcock earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. In 2023, she went on a global practicum to Malaysia, which was led by Dr. Robin Duncan, dean of the Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education.
“Seeing her heart for the nations and incredible knowledge of global education was inspiring,” Adcock said. “Her confidence in Christ is evident, and I hope to become more and more like her in this way. Dr. Duncan has encouraged me to confidently step into the role that God has for me as an educator and use my gifts to bless those whom I encounter.”
Tobi Cunningham, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, wants to be a criminalist, conducting DNA analysis.
“I believe CBU has given me intellectual and social tools to pursue excellence in my field, and this university has given me a great passion to bring the love of Christ into the field of STEM and criminal justice,” she said.