BVU Celebrates 135th Commencement, Honoring Nearly 600 Graduates

May 18, 2026

Buena Vista University (BVU) celebrated its 135th Commencement ceremonies, honoring nearly 600 graduates as they marked the completion of their academic journeys. The weekend featured both undergraduate and graduate ceremonies centered on BVU's mission of Education for Service, highlighting themes of community, perseverance, growth, and purpose.

Throughout the ceremonies, speakers encouraged graduates to carry forward the values and experiences that shaped their time at BVU into their next chapters.

Danika Demers '26, 2026 Undergraduate Student Speaker

Undergraduate student speaker Danika Demers reflected on the purpose-driven foundation of a BVU education.
"The major core value that is instilled in us throughout our time at this university is Education for Service. Looking back, I realize BVU didn't just prepare us for careers; it prepared us to serve others. It taught us how to listen, to lead, to care, and to use what we've learned to make the world better than we found it."

She also encouraged graduates to value the everyday moments that shaped their college experience:

"When you look back on your time here, it won't just be the big achievements you remember. It will be the small moments, the quiet blessings along the way, the conversations, the laughter, the friendships, the ordinary days that quietly shaped who you have become."

Honorable Shad Robinson '96, 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Speaker

Honorable Shad Robinson '96 shared reflections on success, resilience, and perspective, encouraging graduates to define success through personal effort and integrity.

"As you go forward in life, trust the process, always give your best effort, always be prepared, and do the absolute best that you are personally capable of doing. If you have actually done your best, then you have achieved personal success regardless of the outcome or result."

He also spoke candidly about life's fragility and the importance of perspective:

"There is nothing that changes your perspective on life and causes you to focus on what is truly important like a terminal cancer diagnosis and recognizing your days are limited."

"You don't only live once. You only die once. You live each and every day."

He urged graduates to embrace each day fully:

"Every day you wake up is a new chapter of your story. Live where you are and celebrate, embrace, cherish, and be thankful for each day."

Jenniffer Konomi, M.S.Ed. '26, 2026 Graduate Commencement Student Speaker

Graduate student speaker Jenniffer Konomi emphasized collaboration and humanity in every profession.

"None of us will work alone. We will lead teams, serve clients, guide students, support families, and partner with communities. And what will matter most is not just our expertise. It will be our humanity."

Konomi also shared a personal lesson in extending grace to others:

"Give them a reason, not for them, because you may never see them again-but give them a reason for you… Maybe they are rushing to see a loved one who is dying. Maybe they have only moments left before they say goodbye. Give them a reason to respond with grace rather than anger. Because grace doesn't just change them. It changes you."

Dr. Trent Grundmeyer '03, 2026 Graduate Commencement Speaker

Dr. Trent Grundmeyer encouraged graduates to recognize the importance of relationships and continued connection as they move forward in their careers.

"No matter what field you are entering-education leadership, social work, business, healthcare, or beyond-your success will not be built alone. Your network matters. Not just professionally, but personally."

He closed with a simple but enduring message inspired by Abraham Lincoln:

"Whatever you are, be a good one. Not the loudest one. Not the most titled one. Just be a good one. Be a good social worker. Be a good business leader. Be a good educator. Be a good advocate, colleague, and human being."

Access the full undergraduate and graduate ceremonies by visiting bvu.edu/commencement.