Nearly 1,460 students celebrate graduation at Wright State’s spring commencement ceremonies

Wright State President Sue Edwards challenged the class of 2025 to dream boldly and embrace their potential for greatness while acting with kindness and integrity. (Photos by Erin Pence)

Nearly 1,460 students marked the culmination of their educational journeys during Wright State University’s 2025 spring commencement ceremonies in the Nutter Center on May 2 and May 3.

The 1,459 graduates joined more than 120,000 alumni who are making significant contributions throughout Raider Country, across Ohio, nationwide and around the world.

‘Dream boldly and without fear’

In her commencement address, Wright State University President Sue Edwards challenged graduates to set their sights high as they embark on their post-college journeys.

“Dream boldly and without fear,” Edwards told the graduates. “The world needs your innovation, your perspective and most importantly your compassion. Embrace the idea that you are capable of achieving greatness in whatever path you choose.”

Edwards acknowledged that graduates will face unexpected challenges but encouraged them to view obstacles as opportunities for growth.

“You know that life will not always unfold as you plan or expect. You might face obstacles that test your resolve,” she said. “But in those moments, I challenge you to lean into your strengths — your resilience, your passions and, most importantly, your values. Remember that every setback is merely a learning opportunity, for without failure there is no growth and no success.”

In her address, Edwards emphasized the importance of acting with kindness and integrity, noting that graduates’ true legacies will be defined by the impact they have on others far more than titles or achievements.

“Strive to leave a positive mark on the world. Whether it’s in your chosen careers, your communities, or your friendships, let kindness and integrity guide your actions,” she said.

She closed her remarks by expressing confidence in the graduates’ ability to succeed and make meaningful contributions to society.

“You have the power to design your life, to craft your destiny and to make a meaningful difference in the world,” Edwards said. “As proud graduates of the class of 2025, go out there and show everyone what Wright State Raiders are truly made of. The future is bright, and it is yours for the taking.”

About the spring class of 2025

During the undergraduate and graduate ceremonies, Wright State awarded 960 bachelor’s degrees, 476 master’s degrees, 10 doctoral degrees and 28 associate degrees.

The class of 2025 includes 271 international students from 20 different countries, with India boasting the largest number of international graduates, at 215.

The youngest graduating students are 18, earning bachelor’s degrees in computer engineering and technical and applied studies. The oldest graduate is 73, earning a bachelor’s degree in modern languages.

Graduates by college:

• College of Health, Education and Human Services: 356
• College of Engineering and Computer Science: 321
• Raj Soin College of Business: 208
• College of Liberal Arts: 194
• College of Science and Mathematics: 193
• Lake Campus: 139
• Boonshoft School of Medicine: 53

The commencement ceremonies are available to watch on Wright State’s YouTube channel.