On Saturday, May 3, Tiffin University celebrated its 137th Commencement Ceremony, honoring 880 graduates from 28 countries and 42 states, including Washington, D.C. This year’s class included 22 doctoral, 428 master’s and 428 bachelor’s degree recipients.
“Today, graduates, is a joyous day, as we gather in person to celebrate your achievements. This isn’t just a commencement; it’s a reunion of resilience, a testament to your unwavering determination and perseverance,” said Tiffin University President Lillian Schumacher in her opening remarks. She thanked all who attended and reminded graduates, “We are very proud of each and every one of you, and we hope you know that you will always be part of the Tiffin University family. You are indeed Dragons for Life!”
Acknowledgements were extended to U.S. military members, faculty, staff, the Board of Trustees and the University’s vocal and instrumental music groups for their contributions to the ceremony. President Schumacher concluded her speech with a quote from Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Following President Schumacher’s remarks, Chair of the Board of Trustees Andrew Felter took the stage to offer his reflections. “Commencement is my favorite day on the academic calendar. It represents the culmination of hard work, the transformation of your life that education brings and the mission we proudly uphold at Tiffin University,” he said. Felter encouraged graduates to embrace what he called the key ingredients to success: hustle, passion and perseverance, describing them as “what we call grit.” He concluded with a powerful reminder, stating “Remember, leadership isn’t about titles or authority. It’s about service. It’s about loving and lifting those entrusted to your care. True leaders inspire, build trust and guide others through change toward shared success and joy.”
Next to speak was Student Government Association President Mar’Nay Stewart, who addressed her fellow graduates with heartfelt words. “Today marks not only the end of our academic journey but also the beginning of new chapters filled with possibility and promise,” she said. “Who do you want to be? Who do you aspire to become? How do you want to contribute to the world around you?” She reminded classmates that purpose is not always clear but is worth pursuing. “Purpose isn’t a fixed destination; it’s a compass that guides you through life’s twists and turns,” she said. “No matter what path you choose after today, remember that you are not just entering the world. You are helping to create it.”
The spotlight then turned to this year’s commencement speaker a two-time TU alumnus, first-generation college student and military veteran, Donald Hampton Jr. He is the Chief Executive Officer for Carbon Revolution, a global technology company and Tier 1 OEM supplier, which has successfully innovated, commercialized and industrialized the supply of lightweight carbon fiber wheels to the global automotive industry.
Hampton told graduates that “Commencement is not the end. By definition, commencement is the beginning or start.” He encouraged them to see their degree as a powerful tool. “A college degree will open many doors for you and afford you opportunities otherwise unavailable. I encourage you all, put that key in as many doors as possible.” He also emphasized the importance of planning and leadership. “Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance,” he said. “Remember, HOPE is not a strategy.”
He then offered graduates his 5 L’s of Leadership: Listen, Live, Learn, Love and Legacy. He reminded students that “legacy is about devoting ourselves to the potential and development of others,” and to “never forget where you came from. Give back in an effort to inspire and help the next generation of leaders.” In closing, he urged the Class of 2025 to carry their Tiffin identity with pride. “Your performance, your behaviors your actions will determine what others perceive a Tiffin University graduate to be. You carry with you today a tall task, but I am confident I can count on all of you to far exceed the expectations of any of us in this assembly. You are Dragons! Now, go out and make us all extremely proud!”
In recognition of his accomplishments, he was presented with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters Degree by Dr. Peter J. Holbrook, Provost and Chief Operating Officer. “Donald Hampton, Jr., in recognition of your achievements as a transformative leader, global innovator and dedicated alumnus, Tiffin University confers upon you the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters,” proclaimed Dr. Holbrook.
Dr. Holbrook then congratulated the three recipients of TU’s undergraduate achievement awards, which are awarded to graduating seniors. Mar’Nay Stewart received the Student Leadership Award, Presley Marie Feltner received the Scholar-Athlete Award and Karsyn Skylar Carriveau received the Provost’s Award.
“Today is indeed a special occasion,” Dr. Holbrook added, “as we celebrate 22 individuals who have earned the highest credential in higher education, the doctorate. Earlier today, we celebrated each of them during a hooding and robing ceremony.” He also recognized a unique group of graduates in this year’s class. “A number of our doctorate graduates today started their journey at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. We are thrilled that they were able to complete their education with Tiffin University.”
Kit Tiell, a 2008 graduate of Tiffin University’s School of Business and member of the Board of Trustees, rounded out the ceremony by welcoming the Class of 2025 into the alumni family. Tiell encouraged graduates to embrace this new phase of their journey and to stay connected. “You are now part of a vast network of alumni spanning the globe. A network that is as diverse as it is powerful,” he said. “Being an alumni is not just about the title; it’s about the connections you forge, the impact you make and the ways you give back.” He urged the class to “go out and do your part to build up others,” and reminded them, “Today is indeed a great day to be a Dragon!”
Tiffin University proudly celebrates the accomplishments of its undergraduate, graduate and doctoral graduates, and eagerly anticipates their continued growth and success. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!
The commencement ceremony was livestreamed, and the recording can be viewed at tiffin.edu/commencement.
Graduation Day Statistics
Total graduating students: 880 representing 28 countries, 42 states and Washington, D.C.
- Total participating: 625
- Graduates receiving Ph.D. degrees: 22
- Graduates receiving master’s degrees: 428 (13 are global students from Romania and this is our 22nd graduating class from Romania)
- Graduates receiving master’s degrees with distinction (4.0 G.P.A.): 187
- Graduates receiving bachelor’s degrees: 428 (14 are global students from Romania and this is our third undergraduate class from Romania)
- Graduates receiving bachelor’s degrees with honors (3.5 G.P.A. or higher): 250