RADFORD, VA (WVDN) – Gavin Blackwell of Gap Mills, WV, graduated from Radford University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice during its Spring 2025 Commencement ceremonies held in May.
Nearly 1,400 graduates were awarded degrees during two main ceremonies, the graduate commencement and hooding on May 9, in the Dedmon Center and undergraduate commencement on May 10 on Moffet Lawn. Students were joined by proud family members, friends and faculty as they marked this milestone achievement.
This year’s graduating class includes 259 first-generation college students, with graduates ranging in age from 18 to 66, and representing eight states, Washington, D.C., and 12 countries outside the United States. The nursing program had the largest number of students graduating from a single academic discipline.
Keynote speaker Kwabena Osei-Sarpong, a 2005 Radford alumnus and CEO of RIFE International, delivered an inspiring address that emphasized gratitude, resilience, and the enduring power of a Radford education.
“Twenty years ago, I sat where you are today, excited, hopeful but unsure about what was ahead,” Osei-Sarpong said. “Today, standing here with you, I feel the same, except now I have a few more scars, a little more wisdom and a lot of gratitude. This might be the most surreal moment of my journey, a full-circle moment that I wouldn’t have imagined would have come so soon.”
“To the Class of 2025, go out there and show them the Radford spirit.”
Radford University is a comprehensive public university of 7,812 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Radford University serves the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation through a wide range of academic, cultural, human service and research programs. Well known for its strong faculty/student bonds, innovative use of technology in the learning environment and vibrant student life on a beautiful 211-acre American classical campus, Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The University offers 76 bachelor’s degree programs in 47 disciplines and six certificates at the undergraduate level; 28 master’s programs in 23 disciplines and five doctoral programs at the graduate level; and 19 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master’s certificate. A Division I member of the NCAA and Big South Conference, Radford University competes in 16 men’s and women’s varsity athletics. With over 200 clubs and organizations, Radford University offers many opportunities for student engagement, leadership development and community service. In addition to robust academic offerings and engaging student experiences on the main campus located in Radford, Virginia, Radford University also offers a clinical-based educational experience for more than 1,100 students living and learning in Roanoke, Virginia as part of Radford University Carilion, a public-private partnership focused on the cutting-edge delivery of health sciences programming, outreach and service.
