PRAIRIE VIEW, TX — August 6, 2025 — In a triumphant celebration of resilience, ambition, and academic excellence, Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) will host its 114th Summer Commencement Convocation on Saturday, August 9 at 9:00 a.m. in the William “Billy” J. Nicks, Sr. Building, affectionately known as the “Baby Dome.”

This year's commencement is more than a ceremony—it's a powerful tribute to generational transformation, as 277 graduates prepare to cross the stage and step into a future shaped by bold achievement and unshakable purpose. Among them are 190 bachelor's, 69 master's, and 18 doctoral candidates, all symbols of PVAMU’s enduring mission to educate leaders who uplift communities and challenge the status quo.

First-Generation Futures Take the Spotlight

A defining highlight of this summer’s graduating class is the remarkable number of first-generation college students. Over 25% of the undergraduate degree candidates are blazing a historic trail—not just for themselves, but for their families, communities, and generations to come.

These students exemplify Prairie View’s core values of access, opportunity, and upward mobility, proving that with the right support and determination, barriers can become stepping stones.

“This moment isn't just about what our graduates have accomplished—it’s about what’s now possible because of them,” said Dr. Tomikia P. LeGrande, President of PVAMU, who will preside over the ceremony.

A Tech Trailblazer to Inspire the Class of 2025

Delivering the keynote address is Melonie D. Parker, Vice President of Employee Engagement at Google—a dynamic leader in tech, organizational culture, and inclusive excellence. Known for her rallying mantra, “Adding In instead of Fitting In,” Parker will challenge and inspire graduates to boldly embrace authenticity, purpose, and change in every space they enter.

Her presence underscores PVAMU’s commitment to preparing students not only for the workforce, but for leadership at the highest levels of every industry.

Continuing a Legacy of Impact and Excellence

Founded in 1876, Prairie View A&M University holds a sacred place in Texas history as the first state-supported institution for African Americans. Born from the Reconstruction era’s vision for equity through education, PVAMU has grown into a nationally recognized Historically Black College and University (HBCU) known for academic rigor, cultural legacy, and producing graduates who lead with both knowledge and heart.

With each new class, that legacy grows stronger.

From engineering to education, from agriculture to arts, PVAMU graduates enter the world with degrees of distinction—and a mindset of service, strength, and social change.

“The journey to this moment took sacrifice, commitment, and perseverance. These graduates are not just ready for the world—they’re ready to transform it,” said President LeGrande.

Join the Celebration Live

Family, friends, and the global PVAMU community are invited to witness this momentous occasion via livestream:
🔗 Watch Live on YouTube