EUGENE, Ore. – Bushnell University’s Board of Trustees will confer degrees to over 160 students during the Winter Commencement ceremony, recognizing those who have successfully completed the requirements for a bachelor’s or master’s degree. The ceremony will take place on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the Morse Center at the corner of West 11th Avenue and Alder Street in Eugene.
Prior to commencement, the day will begin at 10:00 a.m. in Ross Evans Chapel, where the Counseling Department will host its Chi Sigma Iota honor society induction ceremony. At 1:00 p.m. in Bushnell’s Morse Center, nursing students will take part in the tradition known as the “Blessing of the Hands,” symbolizing the compassionate care and dedication these future healthcare professionals will bring to their patients. Later, at 2:00 p.m. in Ross Evans Chapel, Bible, Theology, and Ministry students will participate in the “Bible, Theology, and Ministry Graduand Ceremony,” celebrating their call to ministry and their commitment to lead with faith and purpose.
These pre-commencement ceremonies embody Bushnell’s commitment to celebrating wisdom, faith, and service, leading up to the commencement address delivered by alumnus and local community leader Pete Kerns ’02. Kerns currently serves as the President and CEO of Serenity Lane, one of Oregon’s oldest and largest non-profit drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers. Prior to his service in the non-profit arena, Kerns had three–decades long career in law enforcement, serving as Eugene’s Chief of Police for 9 years prior to leaving public service.
As Bushnell University is preparing to celebrate the accomplishments of its graduating class, details for the commencement ceremony are as follows: Parking will be available permit-free in the main Bushnell lot next to the Morse Event Center, beginning at 4 p.m. City-metered parking is also available throughout the University district. Doors to the venue will open for guests by 4:45 p.m. The ceremony will begin at 6:00 p.m. and will be live streamed online at live.bushnell.edu.