COMMENCEMENT PROGRAMS

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Esteemed faculty, proud families, and most importantly, the outstanding Class of 2025, this Commencement marks not just the culmination of your academic journey, but the beginning of a new chapter in your lives. As graduates of Cal State LA, you are now and forever part of the legacy of Cal State LA.

This University, your alma mater, is transformative. The lives of those who walk through these halls are forever changed, with brighter futures and broader horizons. Yet, it’s not your life alone. It is those around you, first and foremost your families, while also your neighbors, schoolmates, the lives saved through your research, the lives lifted by your teaching or service, or the lives changed by your art.

Our university mantra, that “We Are LA,” is deeply rooted in the stewardship of place, within a city of iconic industries and artistry. Cal State LA is proud to be ranked #1 in upward mobility, a testament to the transformative work of our faculty and staff. Your hard work will create the ripples of positive impact within your communities. You have shown that with determination and support, anything is possible.

As stewards of this place, as stewards of this consequential moment in our shared history, I know that you have a passion and commitment for the community that has supported you. Cal State LA has equipped you with the skills to make a difference. Now it is your turn to lead. The power in this moment is immense. You have the tools to thrive in whatever path you choose. Remember, the journey does not end here; it is just the beginning.

Whatever path your journey takes, you will always be part of the Golden Eagle family. Whether you return to support future students, engage in community service, or lead initiatives that drive positive change, your role as a steward is vital. This institution has been a place of growth, learning, and transformation for you, and it will continue to be a place you can call home.

Congratulations, Class of 2025! Embrace the future with confidence, knowing that you have the power to make a lasting impact, a community that believes in you, and a place that always welcomes you. Go forth and make us proud!

Sincerely, 
Berenecea Johnson Eanes, Ph.D.
President

MESSAGE FROM THE CHANCELLOR

Dear Class of 2025:

As we celebrate your accomplishments today, I hope you’ll take a moment to consider how much you’ve changed since you first set foot on campus. In your time at the California State University, you have transformed yourself from someone with big dreams on a quest for knowledge into a person empowered to make limitless contributions to our world.

This transformation was inspired, supported and admired by your family, friends, colleagues and loved ones, who have cheered you on through your academic journey. It was spurred by your faculty, who have helped you develop a critical eye and a creative mind. And it was reinforced by the work of your counselors, advisors, librarians, tutors and coaches, who fostered an encouraging environment for you to persist, thrive and succeed.

You have filled all of us with pride.

You are now part of a vibrant network of well over four million CSU alumni who are powering California, the nation and the world. Together, you will solve our greatest challenges, educate the next generation, fight for democracy and a more just society, and enrich our workforce and communities with your talents.

As you continue on your exciting path forward, please stay connected to your alma mater and to the CSU. I hope you will use your connections – both to your campus and to other CSU alumni – to open new doors of possibility and to make a meaningful impact in your chosen field. I also encourage you to reach back often to support those who aspire to follow in your footsteps.

Today’s event is called “commencement” for a reason. It is not an end, but rather the beginning of your next great pursuit. May your hard work and sacrifices lead to happiness, prosperity and deep fulfillment, both in your life and in the lives of those around you.

Congratulations, California State University Class of 2025. We can’t wait to see all that you will accomplish.

Sincerely,

Mildred García, Ed.D.
Chancellor