Indiana State University has announced the featured speakers for its Spring 2025 ceremonies on Saturday, May 10, at the Hulman Center in Terre Haute. The university will honor graduates in three ceremonies. Each ceremony will highlight a speaker who exemplifies the values of leadership, service, and academic achievement that define the Sycamore experience.
Indiana State University has announced the featured speakers for its Spring 2025 ceremonies on Saturday, May 10, at the Hulman Center in Terre Haute. The university will honor graduates in three ceremonies. Each ceremony will highlight a speaker who exemplifies the values of leadership, service, and academic achievement that define the Sycamore experience.
“Commencement is more than a ceremony; it’s a deeply meaningful celebration of resilience, growth, and the dreams our graduates carry into the world,” said President Mike Godard. “These speakers embody the heart and soul of our Sycamore community. I truly believe their voices will offer not only inspiration but also the hope and encouragement our graduates need as they take their next bold steps forward.”
Graduate Commencement Speaker (9 a.m.) – Tamanda Chitalo
Tamanda Chitalo is a graduate student in the Master of Clinical Social Work program at Indiana State University. Originally from Malawi, Tamanda has embarked on a remarkable academic and professional journey rooted in service and compassion.
At Indiana State, she completed a clinical internship with Hamilton Center, Inc., where she provided individual and family therapy using evidence-based practices. Her dedication earned her a prestigious fellowship with Fathers’ Uplift in Boston, Massachusetts, where she was selected as one of the organization’s inaugural fellows.
A first-generation college student, Tamanda plans to pursue licensure in social work and continue her work as a therapist. She is also a member of the African American Board Leadership Institute, which is affiliated with the United Way of the Wabash Valley. Her long-term goal is to earn a doctorate and contribute to the field through research and leadership.
Alumni Commencement Speaker (12 p.m.) – Fred Crawford
Fred Crawford is a global financial executive and operating leader with over 30 years of experience in the life and health insurance industry. Most recently, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Aflac Incorporated, where he played a pivotal role in the company’s expansion, innovation, and financial success.
During his executive tenure, Aflac’s market capitalization more than doubled—from $27 billion to over $60 billion—while maintaining the industry’s highest financial strength ratings. Fred spearheaded major strategic initiatives in investment, acquisitions, and technology, and spent a year in Japan working closely with Aflac Japan’s executive team.
Fred earned a Bachelor of Science in Business from Indiana State University and an MBA from the University of Iowa. A former student-athlete, he ran track at Indiana State and continues to give back to his alma mater through the Dean’s Advisory Council for the Scott College of Business and the Track and Field Facility Enhancement Committee.
Undergraduate Commencement Speaker (3 p.m.) – Nick Bement
Nick Bement, a Terre Haute native, is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies with minors in Political Science and Sport Marketing & Revenue Generation from the Honors College at Indiana State University. A Summa Cum Laude graduate, Nick has been a standout campus leader with a strong record of service and scholarship.
He served as president of the Student Government Association during the 2023–2024 academic year, advocating for student success and mental health awareness. He also served as President of The Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity and was awarded the Fraternity and Sorority Life Legacy Medal of Distinction for his leadership.
Nick interned with Indiana-based organizations and in Washington, D.C., including with then–U.S. Senator and current Indiana Governor Mike Braun. After graduation, he will attend the Indiana University Maurer School of Law.
Spring Commencement at Indiana State is a time-honored tradition that unites students, families, faculty, and community members to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025.
For full details about the ceremonies and guest information, visit www.indianastate.edu/commencement.