WNE Class of 2025
Ready to Lead
Western New England University (WNE) celebrated its Class of 2025 across two commencement ceremonies held on Thursday, May 15—one for undergraduate students and one for graduate and professional degree recipients. These events recognized the achievements of 894 graduates who earned degrees across various disciplines.
The ceremony was attended by the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, families, and friends, all gathered to honor the graduates’ hard work and dedication. The air was filled with excitement as the graduates, adorned in their caps and gowns, prepared to embark on the next chapter of their lives.
University President Robert E. Johnson, while addressing the Class of 2025, highlighted their resilience and adaptability, noting the unique challenges they faced and overcame during their academic journey. The President also acknowledged the support of faculty, staff, and families in helping the graduates reach this significant milestone.
Serving as commencement speaker for both ceremonies was Amy Fliegelman Olli L’88/H’25, a distinguished alumna of the School of Law and a leader in the global technology sector.
Olli inspired graduates with insights drawn from her decades of executive leadership, emphasizing the importance of integrity, lifelong learning, and resiliency in navigating a rapidly changing world. “What our world needs most from you is not perfection… it’s persistence. We need people who have the guts to keep going, even when they don’t have it figured out.”
Her remarks resonated with students across all disciplines, reminding them of the power of their WNE education and the values that will guide them forward.
A highlight of the undergraduate commencement was the keynote address by student Elizabeth Heiney, who acknowledged commencement as a “mountain top moment” and who reminded her fellow graduates that their journey was about more than just a diploma.
Heiney emphasized the “Golden Bear Spirit” and the importance of community, growth, and perseverance. “We became leaders, teammates, artists, researchers, and changemakers,” Heiney said, reflecting on her class’s journey. Heiney will begin her professional journey as a rotational analyst at Värde Partners, a global private equity firm, where she looks forward to continuing her growth and making a meaningful impact in her new community.
As the ceremony concluded, graduates celebrated with their families and friends, taking photos and sharing their excitement for the future. The WNE Class of 2025 now joins the ranks of Golden Bear alumni, ready to make their mark on the world.
Visit the wne.edu/commencement to view both recorded ceremonies.
