WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University celebrated its Fall 2025 Commencement on Saturday, December 13, recognizing more than 120 graduates during a ceremony held in the Academic, Sports, and Recreation Complex (ASRC) on the University’s main campus.
Graduates represented a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across the College of Sciences, Gary E. West College of Business, College of Education & Human Performance, and the College of Liberal & Creative Arts, as well as master’s-level programs in education, business, biology, criminology, and art therapy.
West Liberty University President Tim Borchers congratulated graduates and acknowledged the many paths that led students to commencement day.
“No matter how our graduates began their journey at West Liberty, each one arrived here with the aspiration to complete this chapter of their education,” Borchers said. “They leave prepared to adapt, persevere, and lead in their communities and professions.”
The ceremony featured remarks from Tom Cervone, Managing Director of the Clarence Brown Theatre at the University of Tennessee and a 1990 West Liberty alumnus, who delivered the commencement address titled “The Story Goes On.” Cervone reflected on education as a lifelong process and encouraged graduates to approach the future with curiosity and imagination.
“Graduation is not the end of the story,” Cervone told graduates. “It’s simply the end of this act. Wherever life takes you next, remember that you already know how to begin again.”
During the ceremony, West Liberty University conferred upon Cervone the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, recognizing his leadership in the arts, service to higher education, and ongoing commitment to the University as a member of the Board of Governors.
Riley McIntyre, a History and Geography & Planning double major from Moundsville, W.Va., served as the Fall 2025 student speaker. An Elbin Scholar graduating summa cum laude, McIntyre reflected on the resilience and adaptability of the graduating class.
“We leave West Liberty with more than a degree,” McIntyre said. “We leave with the confidence to face uncertainty, knowing we have the skills to navigate whatever comes next.”
The University also recognized students earning academic honors and members of honor societies during the ceremony.
Following the conferral of degrees, President Borchers encouraged graduates to remain connected to the University and to view West Liberty as a lifelong home.
“Hilltop is home,” Borchers said. “We look forward to seeing the impact our graduates will make and hope they remain engaged with the University for years to come.”
The Fall 2025 Commencement ceremony was live streamed on West Liberty University’s digital platforms for family members and supporters unable to attend in person.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.
Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu
