Prepared for life
05/05/2025
Despite cooler temps and light rain, families gathered to celebrate their graduates.
Starting studies during a pandemic, the class of 2025 is celebrated for resilience
Bluffton University graduated its 125th class during the Saturday, May 3, Commencement ceremony. The 125th graduating class consisted of 189 bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Drawing inspiration from poet William Stafford, Commencement speaker Dr. Perry Bush, emeritus professor of history at Bluffton University, challenged the Class of 2025 to “follow the authentic line”—a path of truth, service and reconciliation—in a world marked by division and distrust.
Referencing Bluffton’s mission statement and the motto “The Truth Makes Free,” the address called on graduates to embrace not only their vocational training but also their responsibilities as citizens and moral leaders. Dr. Bush reminded students that their education prepared them to critically evaluate information, uphold ethical reasoning, and seek understanding across differences—skills vital in an era shaped by the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising polarization.
“You are one of the first Covid generations to graduate from college,” said Dr. Bush. “You have already learned resilience. Now carry that forward—with authenticity, humility and hope.”
The speaker also reflected on Bluffton’s educational values and legacy.
“This motto, ‘the truth makes free,’ isn’t just an empty, forgotten statement,” said Dr. Bush. “It profoundly shapes what we do here and the kind of education you’ve received.”
The speech traced Bluffton’s historical commitment to intellectual freedom and spiritual inquiry, dating back to 1913, and urged graduates to live out those values in their personal and professional lives.
The address closed with Stafford’s poetic invitation to follow “a line that holds
together something more than the world,” leaving graduates with a final charge: “Speak
truth. Serve others. And in a divided world—be authentic.”
Bluffton graduates
Twelve states and four countries were represented in the graduating class. Dr. Gayle Trollinger, interim vice president of academic affairs, shared that 25 first generation students and 24 students with alumni parents, siblings or cousins were among the graduates.
The Master of Social Work (MSW) graduated its first cohort of the collaborative MSW program. Eight graduated from the Bluffton based program and four graduated from the Goshen based program. This online MSW, conducted in partnership with Goshen College, offers a holistic approach to the field of social work.
In addition, Master of Arts in Education (MAEd), Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Nutrition and Dietetic (MND) graduate degrees were presented. Bachelor of Science in Nursing and bachelor of art degrees were also conferred.
For 125 years, Bluffton University faculty and staff have dedicated themselves to helping students find their talents, their passions and, ultimately, their way.
Located on a 65-acre residential campus in northwest Ohio and lined with abundant natural beauty, Bluffton University offers more than 90 majors, minors and interdisciplinary programs for undergraduate students to explore as well as graduate programs in business administration (MBA), education (MAEd), nutrition and dietetics (MND) and social work (MSW). Student-athletes compete as the Beavers through 18 NCAA DIII athletic teams and a co-ed esports team.
Founded in 1899 and affiliated with Mennonite Church USA, Bluffton’s legacy is expressed in its enduring values of discovery, community, respect and service which are woven into the academic program and campus community. Bluffton graduates are prepared for life; 94% are employed, in graduate school or completing long-term service within six months of graduation.
