Indiana University Bloomington is set to make history this weekend as it graduates its largest class ever, with a total of 11,019 undergraduate and graduate students. The commencement ceremonies will take place on May 9 and 10, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the university.
The graduate commencement ceremony is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Friday, May 9, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, while the undergraduate ceremony will follow at 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, at IU’s Memorial Stadium. Both events will feature inspiring addresses from student speakers, showcasing the remarkable journeys these graduates have taken.
Among the notable speakers is Mohammad Nasir Moradi, an Afghan immigrant who will deliver the graduate commencement address. Moradi, who is earning a master’s degree in secure computing from the Luddy School of Informatics, immigrated to the U.S. after the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan. Since arriving at IU, he has interned with the Cyber Security Forum Initiative in Washington, D.C., and served as an associate instructor for classes in his school. His story is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of education against all odds.
Meanwhile, Drew Kimble, a Virginia native receiving a bachelor’s degree from the Kelley School of Business, will address his fellow undergraduates. Kimble, an entrepreneur and soon-to-be consultant, plans to frame his speech around the concept of “unreasonable hospitality,” inspired by Will Guidara’s New York Times best-selling book. His insights promise to resonate with fellow students as they embark on their own professional journeys.
Adding to the weekend’s festivities, Harriet Newman Leve, a Tony Award-winning Broadway producer, will receive an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts during the graduate ceremony. Leve has an impressive portfolio, having produced acclaimed shows such as “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,” “Stomp,” and “Life of Pi.” Her presence at the ceremony will undoubtedly inspire graduates to pursue their passions, regardless of the challenges they may face.
The class of 2025 is notable not only for its size but also for its diversity. Graduates represent students from all 92 Indiana counties, all 50 U.S. states, and 133 different countries. This remarkable representation highlights IU’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where students from various backgrounds can thrive.
Interestingly, the undergraduate cohort was the largest freshman class in IU history when they were admitted in the fall of 2021. This significant enrollment rebound followed a period of slowed admissions in 2020, illustrating the university's recovery and appeal. The class of 2025 began their college careers during a transformative time, witnessing events such as the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse and the record-breaking first season of the Curt Cignetti-led Hoosier football team.
The graduating class also showcases a wide range of academic interests. The youngest graduate is just 18 years old, while the oldest is 73, demonstrating that education knows no age limits. The most common majors among graduates include finance, nursing, and media, reflecting the diverse fields of study that IU offers.
As the university prepares for this historic graduation, one student’s journey stands out. Halie Jasinover, a senior studying journalism with a concentration in public relations, will also be among the graduates this weekend. Jasinover’s path to graduation has been filled with personal growth and discovery.
Reflecting on her time at IU, Jasinover recalls her initial apprehension upon arriving on campus in August 2021. "I was extremely blonde, consistently wearing crop tops and carried a semi-heavy Jersey accent. I was absolutely terrified of Indiana," she wrote in a heartfelt letter to the university. However, she credits IU with helping her find her place and discover her passions.
Through her experiences, Jasinover found her calling in public relations, a path she stumbled upon during her first media school course. "That discovery changed my life," she stated. Now, she is set to work for Creative Artists Agency in their agent trainee program in New York City after graduation, a dream job that exemplifies her determination and hard work.
As Jasinover prepares to embark on this new chapter, she reflects on the friendships and experiences that have shaped her time at IU. Her story, like many others, highlights the transformative power of education and the lasting impact of the university on its students.
With a record number of graduates and inspiring stories like those of Moradi, Kimble, and Jasinover, Indiana University Bloomington’s commencement weekend promises to be a celebration of achievement and hope. As these students step into the next phase of their lives, they carry with them the lessons learned and memories made during their time at IU.
This historic graduation not only marks the culmination of years of hard work but also signifies the resilience and adaptability of students in the face of unprecedented challenges. As they prepare to enter the workforce or continue their education, these graduates are poised to make their mark on the world.
