Walsh University has announced its 2025 Commencement Ceremonies, set for May 3, 2025. The event will celebrate the achievements of over 600 graduates and will honor Samantha Kelley, an advocate for women's sports. Kelley is known as an international presenter, author, and speaker, as well as a nine-time state high school champion and former Division I athlete. She founded FIERCE Athlete Inc., an organization aimed at empowering female athletes through faith and authentic identity.

Kelley will deliver the commencement address and receive an Honorary Doctorate. She has dedicated her career to supporting female athletes in embracing their identity through faith and sport. Since its inception in 2017, FIERCE has offered mentorship to help women succeed both on and off the field.

Additionally, Walsh University will recognize the City of North Canton with the Distinguished Service Medal. This honor acknowledges the city's longstanding partnership with the university. For over sixty years, North Canton and Walsh University have maintained a mutually beneficial relationship that began in the early 1960s. A significant milestone was reached in March 2024 when North Canton joined Walsh's Partners Program. This collaboration provides professional development opportunities for city employees and formalizes internship programs and guest lectures that benefit both parties.

The commencement ceremonies will take place at the Gaetano M. Cecchini Family Health and Wellness Complex. The morning session will celebrate graduates from the School of Behavioral Health and Sciences and the Gary and Linda Byers School of Nursing. In contrast, the afternoon session will honor graduates from the DeVille School of Business and the School of Arts, Sciences, and Education.

Further details about the schedule are available on Walsh University's website.