April 27, 2022

VINCENNES, Ind. – Vincennes University has a tradition of elevating student voices. Student speakers Taven Noll, Karlie Pummel, and Brock Wilson will address their peers and guests at Spring 2022 Commencement on the Vincennes Campus.

The trio will take the Commencement stage on Saturday, April 30, at the P.E. Complex, 1401 N. Chestnut St. 

Pummel and Wilson will speak at the 10 a.m. ceremony for graduates in the colleges of Business and Public Service; Science, Engineering, and Mathematics; and Technology. Noll will speak at the 2:30 p.m. ceremony for Early College; Health Sciences and Human Performances; Humanities; and Social Science, Performing Arts, and Communications graduates.

The Vincennes Campus Commencement ceremonies will stream live on VU's YouTube channel. Vincennes PBS will air the recorded Commencement ceremonies, back to back, at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 1. 

Meet VU’s 2022 Commencement Speakers

TAVEN NOLL

Taven Noll of Greencastle, Indiana, will soon have not one but two degrees from VU.

He earned an associate degree in General Studies with an emphasis in History in 2021. Now, he is receiving an associate degree in Behavioral Sciences.

Noll relishes the opportunity to represent the Class of 2022. He sees it as an opportunity to express appreciation for his peers, the University, and the knowledge the graduates have gained.

“Pursue only that for which you have a deep-seated passion and interest…because that is where you will succeed” is included in his words to the graduating class.

Noll shared that he has participated in the National Society of Leadership and Success, earned certification as a search and rescue technician through the National Association for Search and Rescue, and has gained several research certifications.

Noll plans to transfer to Indiana University and earn a Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs in Law and Public Policy. Afterward, he expects to attend IU’s Maurer School of Law.

“VU has given me a solid foundational knowledge from which I will be able to bridge into a working field,” he said. “I have earned both a Humanities and Social Science degree from VU, and I feel well prepared to continue my educational journey at a bachelor’s level. Attending VU gave me the opportunity to stimulate my intellectual and personal growth, and it has made me wiser and more perceptive to date.”

KARLIE PUMMEL

With a radiant smile and vibrant personality, Karlie Pummel is one of the first individuals to welcome prospective students and families to the Vincennes Campus.

Pummel splits her time between pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Technology - Business Administration/Management and working as a part-time secretary in the Admissions Office.

The Vincennes resident, who has regularly made the dean’s list, is completing her second VU degree. She earned an associate degree in Business Studies and graduated cum laude in December 2019.

Pummel says she is honored as a selected student speaker for Spring 2022 Commencement and is super excited about the opportunity. She has been reflecting on the lasting relationships that she has made with peers, professors, and co-workers. She plans to encourage her fellow graduates to “keep moving forward after graduation and to remember how hard we all worked to get where we are now.”

During her VU journey, Pummel has participated in the student advisory committee for the College of Business and Public Service for three years. She was also a student worker in the Career Center. She received a “Model the Way” award for showing outstanding perseverance.

“VU has shown me how to work with others and has prepared me to tackle anything that comes my way, professionally and personally,” Pummel said.

Her plans include starting her career in the technology or business industries and obtaining a master’s degree in Business Administration.

BROCK WILSON

Brock Wilson took full advantage of all the opportunities VU offers during his time on the Vincennes Campus.

The Advanced Manufacturing Automation Technology major from Covington, Indiana, loves residing in a living/learning community at Ebner Hall surrounded by other Technology and STEM majors. They don’t go far to get to class. The majority of their classes take place in the same building.

Wilson is out and about on campus all the time. He is a student ambassador, Admissions tour guide, Auto club member, and Homecoming Court member.

He also serves as VU’s Trailblazer Willie mascot.

“I have enjoyed campus to the fullest,” he said. “My most significant experience has been the people. Meeting people that share similar interests has made me more sociable and unique. I will remember campus life very well.”

Wilson is well known on campus for his friendly demeanor. During his Commencement speech, he will focus on his fun experiences and how they have shaped his life.

His future includes working for an automation company, picking up more hobbies, and adding to his ever-expanding list of friends.

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