WashU Celebrates Graduates and Honors Community Contributions

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) hosted a series of events celebrating academic achievements and community engagement in January 2025. Key highlights included the December recognition ceremony for graduates and the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration, which featured prominent speakers and community service initiatives.

On December 13, 2025, graduates gathered in the Field House, beaming with excitement as they received recognition for their hard work. Chancellor Andrew D. Martin delivered remarks that inspired the graduates and their families, emphasizing the importance of their contributions to the university and society. The atmosphere was lively as proud students walked across the stage, some even bringing small pets to share in the moment.

Following the graduation celebrations, WashU’s Student Transitions and Engagement organized a welcome event for transfer and exchange students on January 7. Held in Ridgley Hall’s Holmes Lounge, this gathering provided an opportunity for new students to mingle, share dinner, and ask questions about their upcoming experiences at the university.

The momentum continued with the 39th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration on January 19, which featured a range of activities aimed at honoring Dr. King’s legacy. Kayla Reed, a WashU alumna and co-founder of Action St. Louis, received the Rosa L. Parks Award for her organization’s dedication to community advocacy. Participants also engaged in charitable activities, such as assembling blankets for local animal shelters, showcasing a spirit of service that aligns with Dr. King’s message.

The commemoration included a performance by the Unending Praise Gospel Choir, filling Graham Chapel with uplifting music. The keynote address was delivered by Hasan Kwame Jeffries, an Associate Professor of History at The Ohio State University, on January 21 at the Eric P. Newman Education Center. His talk focused on the significance of fiscal responsibility in governance, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about community and national priorities.

Following his address, a question-and-answer session moderated by Julian Magee, an Associate Professor of Physical Therapy and Orthopedic Surgery at WashU Medicine, allowed attendees to engage directly with Jeffries, fostering a deeper understanding of the themes discussed.

The month of January also featured the Koch Center speaker series, where Matt Perelman and Alex Sloane from Garnett Station Partners engaged in a conversation with Peter Boumgarden, the Koch Family Professor of Practice in Family Enterprise at Olin Business School, on January 15. This event underscored the university’s commitment to providing students with insights from industry leaders.

Through these events, WashU not only celebrated the achievements of its students but also reinforced its commitment to community service and engagement. The recognition of individual contributions and the emphasis on collective responsibility demonstrate the university’s ongoing dedication to fostering a vibrant, supportive environment for all its members.