Spelman College celebrated its 138th Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 18, 2025, honoring the largest graduating class in its history. According to the college, 694 seniors received their diplomas during the ceremony held at the Georgia International Convention Center.

The Class of 2025 included 446 Bachelor of Arts degrees and 248 Bachelor of Science degrees. This milestone reflects Spelman's continued commitment to academic excellence and leadership development.

Actress and advocate Taraji P. Henson delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of resilience and empowerment. "The world is watching. And we’re ready for your revolution," Henson stated, inspiring graduates to lead purposefully.

The ceremony also recognized outstanding academic achievements. While specific details about the valedictorians were not provided in the available sources, the college acknowledged the exceptional accomplishments of its top graduates. 

“We have in our midst women who are celebrating having graduated from Spelman 50 years ago. They are members of the Golden Girl Class of 1975,” Rosalind Brewer, the school’s interim president, announced to enthusiastic applause. “We also want to acknowledge women celebrating their 55th to their 70th year since graduation. Congratulations to the Diamond Daughters.” 

She added, “Throughout your matriculation at Spelman, you found community among your sisters. Through late-night study sessions, meals in the dining hall, many convocations, and engaging with your AUC peers,” Brewer said, “Whether you participated in Spelman’s prestigious study abroad program, academic research, or internships, you have made your mark.”

This comes on the heels of the news that Black men are enrolling in colleges at significantly lower rates than other demographics, especially at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This decline is particularly pronounced at HBCUs, where Black men currently account for only 26% of the student body. 

As Spelman College marks this historic occasion, the institution continues to uphold its legacy of cultivating Black women leaders poised to make impactful contributions across various fields.