Purdue Fort Wayne’s 2025 Commencement a moment to reflect and celebrate

Although it’s happened 56 times before, commencement at Purdue University Fort Wayne has that wonderful knack of seeming like a brand-new exercise each and every spring. That’s a testament to the hard work and achievements of students who understand that this may be their first time in the spotlight – but it probably won’t be the last. 

Purdue Fort Wayne’s 57th commencement on May 14 at Allen County War Memorial Coliseum will be a moment of reflection and celebration for nearly 800 students, along with their families and friends, who will join together to experience one of life’s most significant milestones. 

Several soon-to-be graduates recently sat down to share their reflections about the paths they’ve taken while at PFW, and where they intend to go after the tassels are turned. View and read their stories.

“Regardless of the field of study or degree earned, our students have achieved so much during their time at Purdue Fort Wayne, especially in the eyes of future employers,” said Chancellor Ron Elsenbaumer, Purdue University Fort Wayne. “Our newest alumni will be among the best-prepared college graduates in the country, and they’re ready to get to work and make their mark.”

This year’s commencement will begin at 4 p.m. To accommodate a smooth flow into the Coliseum’s main arena, which includes passing through one of multiple screening zones, guests may begin entering at 2 p.m. No tickets are required and parking is free for all who attend, courtesy of the university.

Those not able to be there in person may view the ceremony via livestream by visiting pfw.edu/commencement on the day of the event.

New for this year, a Senior Send-off will take place on Tuesday, the day before commencement. It will give graduating students a chance to enjoy food, drinks, photo ops, lawn games, and cap decorating. They’ll also get to learn about postgraduation resources and take home a senior gift. The festivities, sponsored by the Office of Development and Alumni Engagement, will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Steel Dynamics Keith E. Busse Mastodon Alumni Center, 1528 E. California Road.

At last count, Purdue Fort Wayne estimates this year’s graduating class will feature:

• Total graduates: 1,409  (up from 1,310 in 2024)
• Female: 726  (51.5%)
• Male: 682  (48.4%)
• First generation graduates: 38.3% of total
• Indiana Counties: 50
• States: 20  (includes Indiana)
• Countries: 27  (includes the U.S.)
• 4.0 GPA: 101  (up from 82 last year)

These figures are estimates until the degree conferral process is completed in August.

Frank Paladino, Jack W. Schrey Distinguished Professor of Biology, will again serve as the grand marshal for commencement. The role includes the honor of carrying the Purdue Fort Wayne mace, which made its debut in 2021. Dating back to medieval times, maces have a long tradition of ushering in formal, ceremonial events. Carried by the marshal, and only present when the chancellor is in attendance, the mace signifies that the proceedings have official sanction.

Jack Alexander Oberley, a Bachelor of Music degree candidate, will sing the national anthem. He will be accompanied by the university’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble. 

For additional information about the ceremony, or to explore options for student interviews in advance, contact Geoff Thomas, senior director of media relations, at [email protected] or 260-437-7657 (mobile).