UVU continues to educate more Utahns than any other university
Utah Valley University (UVU) will celebrate the achievements of more than 12,000 graduates, the largest graduating class in school history, at the 2025 commencement ceremonies on April 30 at 7 p.m. in the UCCU Center on UVU’s Orem Campus. Utah business icon Crystal Maggelet, chief executive officer of FJ Management, Inc. and Maverik, will be the keynote speaker.
The 12,000-plus graduates — approximately 84% of whom are from Utah — will receive more than 14,000 degrees and certificates at multiple convocation ceremonies. These graduates come from 28 of Utah’s 29 counties, 47 states, and 53 countries. Additionally, about 45% are 25 or older, and more than a third are the first in their families to graduate from college. The youngest graduate is 16, and the oldest is 71.
“We meet students where they are and guide them toward success,” said Jim Mortensen, UVU acting president. “They are scholars, innovators, and pioneers, with many the first in their families to achieve this milestone. We are proud of our graduates and are confident they will contribute to Utah’s thriving economy.”
During the commencement ceremony, Crystal Maggelet will receive an honorary doctorate in business, while Baroness Dambisa Moyo of Knightsbridge — a world-renowned economist and member of the United Kingdom House of Lords — will be awarded an honorary doctorate in letters. Roger Connors, an accomplished author and leader in human performance and leadership, will receive an honorary doctorate in humane letters.
UVU’s commitment to student success is evident in its recent Carnegie Foundation classification as a new Opportunity College and University. This designation highlights UVU as a model for expanding access, fostering achievement, and preparing graduates for high-paying careers.
Four- and Five- Star Jobs Post Graduation
UVU’s comprehensive student success programs continue to propel students to high-wage, high-demand careers, with an impressive 73.4% of UVU graduates securing jobs with four- or five-star ratings from the Utah Department of Workforce Services.
Additionally, 74% of UVU graduates remain in the state a decade after graduation, contributing to Utah’s workforce and helping sustain its economic momentum.
More Than One-Third of Graduates Are First-Generation
More than a third of UVU’s 2025 graduates are the first in their families to attend college. The majority of UVU’s first-generation students choose degrees in the College of Health and Public Service, Smith College of Engineering and Technology, and the Woodbury School of Business.
The university’s First-Generation Student Success Center provides personalized support to first-generation students, including mentoring, scholarships, and leadership development. GEAR UP and TRIO Student Support Services also provide tutoring, advising, and academic assistance for first-generation, low-income students.
More Than 45% of UVU Graduates Are 25 and Older
UVU stands out, with 45.7% of its graduates being 25 and older. Known for its flexible, career-focused programs, UVU helps these students advance or change careers. The university’s online offerings also expand access for adult learners.
Among students 25 and older, the largest number of enrollments can be found in the Smith College of Engineering and Technology, College of Health and Public Service, and Woodbury School of Business.
Tickets are not required for commencement or individual convocations. See UVU commencement and convocations for more information.
About Utah Valley University
At Utah Valley University, we believe everyone deserves the transforming benefits of high-quality education — and it needs to be affordable, accessible, and flexible. With opportunities to earn everything from certificates to master’s degrees, our students succeed by gaining real-world experience and developing career-ready skills. We invite people to come as they are and leave ready to make a difference in the world.
