On Saturday, June 7, more than 800 Bellevue University students will receive their diplomas during the University’s Spring Commencement ceremony at the Mid-America Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
The event will begin at 9:10 a.m. with a procession of graduates, followed by the ceremony at 9:30 a.m. The event will be live-streamed for those who cannot attend in person.
According to University Registrar Colette Lewis, Bellevue University conferred 1,889 degrees between Sept. 30, 2024 and April 30, 2025. Degrees awarded include 1,286 undergraduate, 593 graduate and 10 doctoral. The University now has over 70,000 graduates worldwide.
This year’s student commencement speaker is Starr Shamp, who earned her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Shamp’s journey through graduate school was anything but traditional. While pursuing her degree, she underwent treatment for stage IV breast cancer, maintained a full-time job, got married, and became a mother—all while staying focused on completing her education.
She credits Bellevue University faculty and staff for their support and understanding throughout her studies, noting that some of the most meaningful lessons she learned weren’t found in textbooks, but in the encouragement to prioritize her well-being.
“What makes Bellevue University special is how it brings together people from every walk of life, who are inspired to work toward the same goal – earning a degree and building a better future,” said University President Dr. Mary Hawkins. “Students like Starr show us that when you are motivated, even the toughest parts of the journey have meaning.”
The commencement speaker will be Dana C. Bradford, CEO and majority owner of C3 Brands, a consumer goods company based in Omaha, Nebraska. He brings extensive leadership experience, having served as President and Managing Partner of McCarthy Capital and through board roles across industries ranging from consumer goods to media and finance.
Graduates and their families and friends are also invited to an Open House on Friday, June 6, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Margre H. Durham Student Center on the Bellevue University campus. The event will include refreshments, campus tours, and opportunities to meet instructors and classmates.
For more information about the Spring Commencement Ceremony, visit the Complete Guide online.
