Warner Pacific University will celebrate a powerful and deeply meaningful milestone this Saturday, May 10th as 119 students graduate as part of the Class of Spring 2025. Among this remarkable group, 52% are first-generation college graduates, a reflection of the University’s commitment to providing accessible, Christ-centered education to students from all walks of life.
As family, friends, faculty, and community members gather, this Commencement will serve as more than just a ceremony. It will be a joyful expression of God’s transformative love, made visible through the lives and stories of these students. This year’s student speakers, Milari Beltran Carpenter, Cassandra Thach Wood, and Juan Francisco Navarrete Pacheco, embody the faith, perseverance, and purpose that define the Warner Pacific experience.
Milari Beltran Carpenter — Traditional Student Speaker
Bachelor of Social Work
As 
the Traditional Student Speaker, Milari Beltran Carpenter exemplifies both the mission of the Social Work program and the Christ-centered values of Warner Pacific University. In addition to academic excellence, Milari has made a profound impact as an Area Coordinator for Residence Life and a Peer Navigator in the Center for Academic Success and Achievement (CASA). Her commitment to building inclusive community, solving problems with compassion, and uplifting others reflects the spirit of service modeled by Jesus.
Milari’s story is one of resilience, growth, and a deep sense of calling: qualities that echo the redemptive love of God that transforms lives and communities. Her presence on campus has inspired many, and her voice at Commencement will offer encouragement to her fellow graduates as they step into the next chapter of their lives.
Cassandra Thach Wood — Professional & Graduate Studies Speaker
Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood/Elementary Education
Representing Warner Pacific’s Professional and Graduate Studies division, Cassandra Thach Wood brings a heart for teaching and a story shaped by perseverance and faith. A long-time childcare provider turned public education professional, Cassandra has balanced family, work, and academic demands with extraordinary focus and grace.
“Education has always been a passion of mine,” Cassandra shares. “I always dreamed of being a teacher and spending my days inspiring our youth and helping them reach their full potential.”
Her academic journey has taken her from Eastern Gateway Community College to Portland Community College and finally to Warner Pacific, where she found community and renewed purpose. Now working in family and community engagement, she plans to pursue a master’s degree and continue making a difference in the lives of children and families. Her journey reflects the doors God opens when we respond faithfully to His call.
Juan Francisco Navarrete Pacheco — Scripture Reader
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Providing a spiritual foundation for the ceremony, Juan Francisco Navarrete Pacheco will offer the Scripture reading. Known for his humility, perseverance, and servant leadership, Juan has been a quiet but steady force for good on campus. He has successfully balanced the responsibilities of student life, work, and family while continuing to support and encourage others along the way.
Juan’s life reflects the quiet strength and sustaining grace of God’s love. His presence reminds us that leadership often looks like service and that faith can anchor us in seasons of challenge. His scripture reading will invite all gathered to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the goodness of God at work in this moment.
A Celebration of Purpose, Faith, and God’s Transformative Love
Warner Pacific’s Spring 2025 Commencement is more than a culmination of academic achievement. It is a celebration of God’s faithfulness and transformative love at work in the lives of our students. This year’s graduates, 119 strong, with more than half being the first in their families to earn a college degree, represent stories of redemption, calling, and unwavering hope.
As Milari, Cassandra, and Juan take the stage, they do so not only as student leaders but as testimonies to what is possible when education is rooted in purpose and shaped by God’s love. Through their words and experiences, the Warner Pacific community will be reminded that this journey is part of something far greater: a calling to serve, lead, and love in the name of Christ.
Congratulations, Class of Spring 2025!
