Liberty University is preparing to host its 52nd Commencement ceremonies this week, an event anticipated to draw 60,000 people to campus. The undertaking requires coordination across university departments and involves numerous events celebrating graduates.
More than 30,000 degrees are slated for conferral in the Class of 2025, a significant increase from the university's first commencement in 1974 which saw 57 graduates. Over 30 events are scheduled from Thursday through Saturday.
The largest gathering is expected for the Main Ceremony on Friday at 7 p.m. in Williams Stadium. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin is scheduled to deliver the keynote address. This year's Main Ceremony includes a drone show finale featuring 300 drones depicting a Liberty-themed story.
Individual degree presentation ceremonies are set for six venues: Liberty Arena, Vines Center, Liberty Multipurpose Center, Thomas Road Baptist Church, Williams Stadium, and the Center for Music and the Worship Arts, Concert Hall. A Military Graduate Recognition Ceremony on Thursday morning honors over 7,129 graduates with military affiliations. Alumni receptions are also planned.
Planning for the event begins in September each year, involving the Registrar's Office in scheduling and logistics. Departments like Event Management, Broadcast Communications, Facilities Planning & Management, and the Office of Security & Public Safety collaborate on setup, technology, campus readiness, safety, and transit for the large crowds.
Event Management teams began setup as early as April 28, deploying chairs and stages across venues. Broadcast Communications will provide in-venue sound and video, as well as livestreams for 32 ceremonies, using extensive equipment and staff.
Facilities Planning & Management staff prepare the campus grounds, manage waste services, provide maintenance support, and operate transit buses. Security & Public Safety is coordinating with local and state police departments and utilizing drones for aerial coverage to monitor traffic and assist with emergencies.
Guests and graduates can find dining options across campus and additional vendors at the Main Ceremony. Information booths are available at key locations. Campus tours and a self-guided Legacy of Faith Historic Walk are options for visitors. Liberty Baseball hosts Virginia Tech on Wednesday.
Commencement festivities officially begin Wednesday with a Welcome Fair in the Montview Alumni Ballroom, continuing Thursday and Friday. Graduates can pick up cords, reader cards, and take photos.
Separately, the Liberty Flames track and field team concluded its regular season with eight event victories at the Liberty Twilight Qualifier on Tuesday. Thirty-one graduating seniors were recognized. Winners included Luke Anderson (men's 110 hurdles), Sofia Mojica (women's discus), and Christian Hicks (men's discus). Live Results were available for the meet. The team prepares for the 2025 CUSA Outdoor Track & Field Championships.
Lori Boyce, program manager, described the event as the university's "Super Bowl."
"I love seeing the staff, faculty, and student volunteers come together each year to work so hard throughout the three days while also keeping a positive, welcoming attitude for our graduates and guests," Boyce said.