Degrees awarded to 399 students at Thomas More University, among whom 101 are the first in their families to earn a college degree
Thomas More University held its 97th annual commencement exercises at Thomas More Stadium in Florence, honouring the Class of 2025. The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Presidential Award to Michelle Bump '25, the top graduate from the ranks of traditional undergraduate students.
In his address to the graduates, Thomas More University President Joseph L. Chillo, LP.D., spoke about the students' achievements, comparing them to Thomas More, who spent his years seeking wisdom, engaging in discourse, and preparing for a world that demands both intellect and integrity.
Michelle Bump '25, the Presidential Award winner, shared her experience at Thomas More University, emphasizing her commitment to give her all to whatever she does with an abundance of love. She also highlighted her dedication to serving others and creating a positive environment on campus for students to thrive and engage more.
The Class of 2025 is a diverse group, including representatives from 17 states and 17 countries. Seven military veterans were among the graduating class, and one hundred and one graduates were the first in their family to achieve a higher education degree.
Other notable awards presented during the ceremony included the First-Generation Student Award, which went to Sandra Kerr '25, and the Dean's Graduate Award, which was received by Sarah LaFollette '25.
In addition, faculty members were recognised for their outstanding contributions to the university. Kayla Steltenkamp, Ph.D., assistant professor for the School of Education, was recognised as the outstanding full-time faculty member from the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. John Hageman, Ph.D., was honoured as the outstanding full-time faculty member from the St. Elizabeth College of Natural and Health Sciences. John J. Cioffi, MBA, received the outstanding part-time faculty award from the Robert W. Plaster College of Business, while John D. (Jack) Rudnick, Jr., Ed.D., professor and director of the MBA program, was recognised as the outstanding full-time faculty member from the same college.
However, there is no publicly available information about the Distinguished Full-time Professor of the Year 2025 at the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at Thomas More University.
A total of 399 students were conferred degrees, with 288 receiving bachelor's degrees and 111 receiving graduate degrees. Stephanie Burnside '24/'26 received the Lifelong Learner Award.
As the ceremony came to a close, President Chillo expressed his hope that graduates would continue to exemplify the values of the University in their careers and in life. He encouraged them to remember that their education is not just about academic achievement, but also about developing a sense of responsibility towards others and making a positive impact on the world.
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