Summer Graduation at Andrews University

From Aug. 1–3, 2025

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Andrews University’s summer graduation will take place during the weekend of Aug. 1–3, 2025. Events will begin on Friday with a Commencement service, followed by the Baccalaureate on Sabbath and two Commencement services on Sunday morning.

All services will take place at the Andreasen Center for Wellness. Please note that in order to provide adequate seating for the families of graduates, there are three commencement services with reserved seating only.

Additional academic and cultural programs are planned throughout the graduation weekend. For a complete list, please consult the online schedule at andrews.edu/graduation/schedule/.

On Friday, Aug. 1, at 5:30 p.m., Jacques B. Doukhan, senior research professor of Hebrew and Old Testament exegesis at Andrews University, will present the commencement address for the College of Education & International Services and the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary. Doukhan holds a bachelor’s degree in Hebrew and master’s degrees in theology, Hebrew and egyptology, as well as doctoral degrees in Hebrew language and literature (University of Strasbourg) and theology (Andrews University). A prolific scholar and writer, Doukhan has written over twenty books, some translated into several languages, and currently serves as general editor of the Seventh-day Adventist International Bible Commentary.

The Baccalaureate on Sabbath, Aug. 2, at 11:45 a.m., will be delivered by G. Alexander Bryant, president of the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists and vice president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Bryant holds a BA in theology and business administration from Oakwood College, a Master of Divinity from Andrews University and a Doctor of Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary. He was ordained to gospel ministry in 1986 and has spent his career serving the Adventist church. Before being elected to his current role, he served as a pastor, temperance director, Youth/Pathfinders/National Service Organization director, superintendent of education and executive secretary.

L. Ann Hamel, psychologist, will offer the 8:30 a.m. commencement address on Sunday, Aug. 3, for students of the College of Health & Human Services. She will also be honored with the President’s Medallion during the service. Hamel earned a BS in elementary education from Southern Adventist University, an MA in education and PhD in counseling psychology from Andrews University, and a DMin in formational counseling from the Ashland Theological Seminary. After serving as a missionary for over a decade, she has spent her career as a missionary care coordinator, educator and consultant, fostering the mental and spiritual health of others called to mission service.

The 11:30 a.m. Commencement service on Sunday will honor graduates from the College of Arts & Sciences and College of Professions. Glenn Russell, professor emeritus of religion at Andrews University, will be the speaker. Russell holds a bachelor’s degree from Columbia Union College, a Master of Divinity from Andrews University and a Doctor of Ministry from Trinity International University. He has served as a pastor, religion teacher at Andrews Academy and professor at Andrews University. Throughout his career, he has been a driving force behind student engagement in global missions, and his messages of service, faith and Christ-centered education have reached both local and global audiences.

Honorary degree candidate Loren Hamel, former president of Corewell Health in Southwest Michigan, will be presented with an honorary Doctor of Business Administration at the 11:30 a.m. commencement service. Hamel completed a BS from Andrews, an MD from Loma Linda University School of Medicine and an MHSA from the University of Michigan. In his over 40-year career in health care leadership, he oversaw several company transitions, demonstrating a passion for strategy, respect for data and dedication to achieving health equity. He has also served the Andrews University community in several capacities, including as clinical professor of nursing, president of the Alumni Association and member of the Board of Trustees.

Select graduation services will be livestreamed. For more details, visit andrews.edu/graduation/.