Avondale University’s Graduation 2025 was a meaningful celebration of academic excellence, faith, service, and community, as 198 students crossed the stage on Sunday to mark the culmination of their studies. The graduating cohort included three PhD candidates, 12 VET graduates, and students from across nursing and health, education, arts and business, and ministry and theology. Across two graduation sessions, the ceremonies reflected Avondale’s enduring commitment to Christ-centred education and its motto, For a Greater Vision of World Needs.
One of the most significant moments of the ceremony was the presentation of the Avondale Prize for Excellence 2025, the University’s most prestigious student award generously sponsored by Sanitarium Health Food Company. This year’s recipients were Jazmin Bell, Olivia Morton, and Elihon Taulapapa, recognised for taking initiative, demonstrating leadership qualities, and fostering academic, social and spiritual balance.
Academic and professional excellence was recognised across all disciplines. Olivia Morton received the Ministry of Teaching (Secondary) Prize, alongside Samara Bentley and Jocelyn Foster, while Elihon Taulapapa was awarded the Cross-Cultural Community Engagement Prize for his outstanding commitment to outreach, collaboration, and cross-cultural understanding. Bachelor of Arts (Counselling) graduate Taylah Jones received three major awards: the Adventist Media Digital Media and Journalism Prize, the Adventist World Radio (AWR) Prize in Radio Writing and Public Relations, and the Willobee Floors Bachelor of Arts Excellence Prize. As editor of VOICE in 2025, Jones played a pivotal role in amplifying student voices and fostering creative expression across the Avondale community.
This year, seven University Medals were awarded in recognition of exceptional academic achievement—three to undergraduate students, three to postgraduate students, and one to a Higher Degree by Research graduate. In a historic first for Avondale University, the University Doctoral Research Medal was awarded to Dr Dawn Moreen Grant-Skiba, recognising the exceptional quality and impact of her doctoral research. The award reflects Avondale’s growing strength in research and higher-degree scholarship.
Graduation weekend also included consecration services, the valedictory service, and the Thrift Honours Concert, allowing graduates, families, and staff to reflect, worship, and celebrate together. As the Class of 2025 steps into their next chapter, Avondale congratulates all prize recipients and graduates and thanks them for the contributions they have made to campus life. We are proud to see them leave equipped with knowledge, faith, and purpose—ready to serve their communities and the world for good.
