Celebrating Maryville College’s rich graduation traditions
As spring blossoms across East Tennessee, Maryville College is preparing to honor the Class of 2025 with a blend of cherished traditions and fresh festivities, culminating in the Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 3.
The Commencement will take place at 10 a.m. in Humphreys Court, nestled between Anderson and Fayerweather Halls.
“I am pleased to announce that our May 2025 Commencement Speaker will be Dr. Michael Lamb of Wake Forest University,” President of the college Bryan F. Coker announced via email to all Maryville College students on Feb. 10th
Dr. Lamb, a native Tennessean and the F.M. Kirby Foundation Chair of Leadership and Character at Wake Forest University will deliver the keynote address. Lamb is also a Rhodes Scholar and advocate for liberal arts education, and will also receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree during the ceremony.
“I believe Dr. Lamb will a most fitting speaker, as your graduating class ventures forth and begins applying your education to the world beyond our campus – a world that truly needs all you have learned and gained at Maryville College.”
Adding a personal touch to the ceremony, Senior Class President Hannah E. Lee (’25) and SGA President Izzy Wright (’25) will both deliver speeches reflecting on the accomplishments of the Class of 2025, the challenges they have overcome and the values they carry forward. These addresses will highlight the unique voices of the student body and reinforce the bonds of community that define the Maryville College experience.
“On behalf of the President’s Office,” Executive Assistant for the Office of the President Maddie Taylor said, “I would like to thank [the SGA president and senior class president] for [their] willingness to be a part of our Commencement service this year!”
In the weeks leading up to graduation, seniors also gathered for the annual Senior’s Brews and Bonfire. This informal event offered graduates an opportunity to reflect on their college journey, share memories and enjoy brews crafted on campus by fermentation students around a communal bonfire. It was a moment for camaraderie and celebration before the formalities of Commencement.
Graduates are encouraged to assemble at 8:45 a.m. on May 3 in the Clayton Center for the Arts for the official class photo. Professional photographers from PhotoPlay Studios will capture individual moments as graduates receive their diplomas. Additionally, personalized video clips of each graduate crossing the stage will be available through StageClip, allowing families to relive and share the milestone.
Maryville College’s Commencement ceremonies are steeped in tradition, reflecting the institution’s 206-year history. From the processional accompanied by the MC Tartan Band and Concert Choir to the Charge to the Senior Class delivered by President Dr. Bryan Coker, the event encapsulates the spirit and values of the college community.
As the Class of 2025 prepares to step into the next chapter of their lives, these traditions serve as a bridge between past and future, honoring their achievements and the enduring legacy of Maryville College.