Montreat College celebrated the graduation of 187 students during its 2025 Commencement on Saturday, May 10, marking the conclusion of the college’s 109th academic year.
The Class of 2025 hailed from 21 states and six countries, including Colombia, Japan, Serbia, South Africa, Spain, and Ukraine. The college honored 119 graduates from the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) and 68 from the Adult and Graduate Studies (AGS) program.
The ceremony included a special video message from North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, who praised students for their perseverance through adversity from Hurricane Helene, which brought significant disruption to Western North Carolina during the fall semester.
“Simply by being here today, you have achieved something great even in the wake of something horrible,” Governor Stein said. “When you face future obstacles that will certainly come your way, draw on that knowledge and be confident in your ability to overcome them. As you start to climb whatever ladder you choose, let me encourage you to reach behind you and help more people climb up. Each of us has a responsibility to do our part to help improve the lives of others.”
Rev. Gabriel Salguero, pastor of the Gathering Place in Orlando, Florida, and one of the nation’s prominent Latino evangelical leaders, delivered the commencement address and challenged graduates to heal the world through relationships.
“Take your degree and use it to heal somebody, inspire somebody, educate somebody, counsel somebody, and serve your fellow human being to the glory of God and the benefit of a world that so desperately needs it,” Rev. Salguero urged. “The world will have mountains, but you are a mountain climber. The world will have challenges, but you were equipped and called to overcome them with grace and mercy.”
Two valedictorians shared reflections on their educational journeys. Yessenia Castellanos represented the School of Arts and Sciences. A native of Pelion, South Carolina, Castellanos graduated with dual degrees in Business Administration and was part of the first graduating class in the Visual Communication and Experience Design program. A decorated student-athlete, she has competed in nine national championship events and earned multiple NAIA All-American and academic honors.
AGS valedictorian Staci Williams, a single mother of three children from Asheville, earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and human services after 15 years in healthcare.
“Montreat College has been more than just a place of learning,” she shared. “I have found a deeper sense of purpose and faith that has guided me every step of the way. I have learned that when you find your purpose, you must never allow anything to hold you back.”
Dr. Dorothea “Dottie” Shuman, who is retiring after 30 years as an Outdoor Recreation Studies professor at Montreat College, read the Scripture verses for the Class of 2025 from Jeremiah 29:11-13: “For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord. Plans for your welfare and not for evil to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Founded in 1916, Montreat College is a Christ-centered, liberal arts institution that teaches students to read deeply; write clearly; think analytically, critically, and creatively; argue persuasively; and work cooperatively. The college’s mission is to educate through intellectual inquiry, spiritual formation, and preparation for calling and career, all to impact the world for Jesus Christ. Montreat College has produced more than 13,000 graduates.