UMO holds spring commencement ceremony

MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive celebrated its 71st Spring Commencement on Friday, May 9, honoring the achievements of graduates from across the country and around the globe. The ceremony, held in Kornegay Arena, marked the culmination of years of study, sacrifice, and perseverance for the Class of 2025.

Former NFL star and ESPN analyst Jeff Saturday was originally scheduled to deliver the keynote address. However, following a recent health emergency, Saturday was unable to attend. He shared a pre-recorded video message offering warm congratulations and expressing his hope to speak at a future ceremony once he has fully recovered.

In his absence, UMO President Dr. H. Edward Croom delivered a heartfelt and timely message centered on the theme of “Unexpected Opportunity.”

“Securing graduation speakers is no easy feat,” Croom remarked, drawing laughter as he added, “And so today—you’re stuck with me.” What followed was a thoughtful address that encouraged graduates to embrace the unforeseen moments that can shape a lifetime.

“I encourage you to always be on the lookout for the unexpected opportunity,” he said, offering modern and Biblical examples of transformative decisions. From Mount Olive native Bob Tillman’s journey turning a small hardware chain into Lowe’s Home Improvement to Jesus’ calling fishermen who became disciples, Croom reminded graduates that life’s defining opportunities often arrive without warning. “Today is not the end,” he concluded. “It’s the beginning—your opportunity to seize what’s next.”

Offering words of encouragement and pride, Board Chair Donnie Lassiter addressed the graduates with heartfelt congratulations. “It is an honor and a pleasure to serve as the chairman of the Board of Trustees at this great University,” Lassiter began. “On behalf of our board, I want to congratulate you on your success in reaching this special day.”

He continued by highlighting the board’s role. “Our 30-member Board of Trustees is responsible for overseeing and governing the University, as well as supporting the President in his role. We aid in planning and directing the University’s future, and we are committed to supporting UMO within our local communities and aid in financial support.”

Lassiter then turned his attention directly to the graduates and their supporters. “I want to thank today’s graduates for trusting and choosing this institution to help prepare you for achieving your future goals. I also want to thank each family member and friend who has supported you along this journey.”

Lassiter acknowledged the diverse paths students took to reach commencement. “Many of you started this journey straight out of high school. Others have balanced careers, spouses, and families along the way. I can only imagine how much scheduling had to be done around the breakfast table to get to this moment.” He concluded with a final message on behalf of the board. “Again, from our Board of Trustees—congratulations and good luck.”

To conclude the ceremony, UMO Alumni Association President Dr. Norm Crumpacker officially welcomed the Class of 2025 into the Trojan alumni family. “The friendships and connections you have made here are only the beginning,” he said. “The UMO Alumni Association invites you to remain connected and engaged with your alma mater – your UMO home.”

The day closed with cheers, celebration, and a renewed sense of purpose—a reminder that even in the face of life’s detours, unexpected opportunities can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

This year’s graduating class represented students from 4 continents, 8 countries and 20 states in America. Of the 273 graduates, 20 received associate’s degrees, 228 received bachelor’s degrees, and 25 were awarded master’s degrees.