2025 Baccalaureate & Commencement
GuidelineS
As we approach the highest celebration of academic achievement and the marking of yet another milestone in the history of Virginia Union University, please closely note the following information, which provides instructions for baccalaureate and commencement 2025. The en-masse ceremony – which every graduation candidate must attend –will take place at 9:00 AM
Saturday, May 10, 2025 on Hovey Field.
EVENTS
Celebrate with us!
The Honorable Raphael G. Warnock to Deliver Keynote Address at
Virginia Union University’s 2025 Commencement
Richmond, VA — Virginia Union University is proud to announce that the Honorable Raphael G. Warnock, United States Senator from Georgia and Senior Pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, will deliver the keynote address at the 2025 Commencement Ceremony. A towering figure in faith, public service, and social justice, Senator Warnock will also be awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree during the ceremony in recognition of his extraordinary leadership and lifelong commitment to equity, education, and empowerment.
“Senator Rev. Dr. Raphael Warnock represents the very essence of servant leadership,” said Dr. Hakim J. Lucas, President and CEO of Virginia Union University. “His life’s work bridges the sacred and the civic, the pulpit and the Senate floor. We are honored to welcome him to VUU to inspire the next generation of leaders as they step boldly into their future.”
A son of Savannah, Georgia, and the eleventh of twelve children, Senator Warnock has become a national voice for justice, compassion, and the power of the Black church tradition. He made history in 2021 when he was elected Georgia’s first Black U.S. Senator — a seat he continues to hold while pastoring the spiritual home of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The 2025 Commencement Ceremony will be a historic celebration for Virginia Union University, as we honor the achievements of our graduates and bear witness to an address from one of the most influential voices of our time.
Commencement will be held at 9 AM on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Hovey Field on the campus of Virginia Union University.
This momentous occasion promises to be a highlight in VUU’s legacy of producing leaders who “believe, achieve, and serve.”
Stay tuned for more details and media coverage opportunities.
INCLEMENT WEATHER
PROCEDURES
In the event of inclement weather, announcements will be made via local radio and TV, the VUU web page, and the VUU campus marquee.
TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets are not required. Seating will be on a first-come-first-served basis.
HANDICAP SEATING
& SHUTTLE SERVICE
Handicap seating will be designated for guests. Please see an usher for assistance. Golf carts will provide shuttle service for guests who may need it.
VENDORS
Food and beverage vendors will be available beside Barco Stevens Gymnasium throughout the day for Commencement.
TRAFFIC & PARKING INFORMATION
As we approach our commencement ceremony, please be aware of the following arrangements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable celebration for all involved.
Traffic Advisory
Virginia Commonwealth University will be hosting their commencement ceremony on the same day. Expect heavy traffic throughout the city. We advise everyone to plan accordingly and allow extra time for travel to and from the ceremony.
Street Closure
Please note that Lombardy Street will close at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, between the circle and Brook Road. (See image below.)
Signage and alternate route information will be provided, but please plan your travel with this closure in mind.
Gate Opening
The gates for visitors will open at 8:00 a.m. on commencement day. We recommend arriving early to navigate through the increased traffic and secure parking.
HOTELS & RESTAURANTS
Courtyard by Marriott
Richmond Scott’s Addition
3800 W. Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23230
(804) 877-0010
Special rate $149.00 per night with code B8497
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Contact sales
We’d love to see how we can streamline your hiring together.
Request a demo
Contact sales
We’d love to see how we can streamline your hiring together.