The Edward J. Pryzbyla Center was packed on Friday evening, December 12, as family and friends gathered to watch 111 graduates walk across the stage and receive their diplomas at The Catholic University of America’s 2025 Winter Commencement.
The ceremony featured graduates from 11 schools who received degrees ranging from associate to doctoral level, and the standing-room only crowd included proud parents who came from halfway around the world to celebrate their sons and daughters’ achievements.
Executive Vice President and University Provost Aaron Dominguez served as emcee for the Commencement ceremony. Early in the ceremony, he set the stage for what was to come by explaining that the rituals of Commencement are meant to signify a turning point in the graduates’ lives, as exemplified for example, by the tradition of having graduates process into the room carrying their academic hoods and donning them only later in the ceremony, after their deans have presented them as candidates for their degrees.
The ceremony included other traditional elements such as the University prayer delivered by University Chaplain and Vice President for Ministry and Mission Father Aquinas Guilbeau, O.P., the National Anthem performed by music student Jason Guerrero, and a welcome to Catholic University’s Alumni Association from the president of the association, Ms. Mary Card Mina.
As he guided the ceremony, Dominguez reminded the graduates of the importance of their efforts to gain new knowledge in their academic disciplines. “This drive to understand, to explore, to create, exists within every discipline. Whether you’re studying literature, nursing, engineering, or physics, your pursuit of knowledge is a participation in God’s creative work.”
Catholic University President Peter Kilpatrick delivered the Commencement remarks, noting the higher purpose of education. “What makes this accomplishment truly special isn’t just the degree you’ve earned – it’s who you’ve become in earning it. A true education is about more than acquiring knowledge or skills or certifications. It’s about formation – becoming the person God created you to be.”
The graduates themselves echoed that message when they reflected on their education at Catholic University. Audrey Clement, who graduated with dual bachelor degrees in accounting and music, noted how her education has emphasized the importance of integrity. “I just got a job in Alexandria working for a small auditing firm. The audit profession requires a lot of integrity, and I anticipate there will be a lot of hard decisions I’ll have to make. And those are the core principles I’ve learned at Catholic University and the Busch School.”
Josh Webb received his MBA at Friday’s Commencement. Webb focused on the Christian foundation of Catholic University and how it has given him confidence. “Knowing that I’m rooted in my faith, I can get through any situation.” He added, “I came here when I was 18 as an undergrad, and now I’ve gotten my third degree, and I just keep reaping the rewards of the decision I made when I was 18.”
The Catholic University of America congratulates our most recent 111 graduates and wishes them great success in the their next life-chapters.
