With emotion and excitement filling the Yakima Valley SunDome, Heritage University celebrated 202 graduates during its 2025 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 10. The ceremony marked not only the end of an academic journey for these students but also the beginning of new chapters filled with promise, purpose, and impact.

This year’s Commencement was especially significant as it featured the graduation of the university’s first cohort of Master of Social Work students—an important milestone in Heritage’s growing slate of advanced degree offerings. These graduates are poised to make meaningful contributions in communities where compassionate, culturally responsive social workers are critically needed.

Yakama Nation leader JoDe Goudy delivered a powerful and reflective keynote address. As the founder of Redthought, a Native-owned organization promoting sustainable living and respect for the Earth, Goudy spoke of intergenerational responsibility, cultural identity, and walking in balance with creation. His words resonated deeply with the diverse group of graduates and their families.

Two graduates earned the prestigious Board of Directors Academic Excellence Award for maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA: Vanessa Moran- Tapia (B.S.W., Social Work) and Melissa Nicole Land (B.A., English). Moran-Tapia was also honored with the President’s Student Award of Distinction for her outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and service to the university community.

Student speakers Miranda Maravilla (B.A., Business Administration) and Peyton Hart (M.I.T., Elementary Education) inspired their classmates with heartfelt stories of perseverance and personal growth. A touching tribute was made to Peyton’s sister, Aspen Hart, who was awarded a posthumous honorary degree in education following her tragic passing early in her academic journey.

The Violet Lumley Rau Alumna of the Year Award was presented to Maria Batarao, M.Ed. (2001), a longtime educator and role model who continues to uplift her community.