Brimley, MI – Bay Mills Community College (BMCC) is proud to announce its largest and most historic graduating class to date, with 184 graduates earning a total of 203 credentials this year. Among these graduates are the first-ever recipients of bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and Computer Information Systems, marking a significant expansion of BMCC’s academic offerings.

This milestone reflects the dedication and perseverance of students from diverse backgrounds, including 102 Native students representing 20 tribal communities and 137 first-generation college students—making up 73.3% of the graduating class. Graduates hail from 16 states, including Michigan, demonstrating BMCC’s growing reach and commitment to accessible education.

The Class of 2025 includes:

  • 39 bachelor’s degrees (including inaugural Business Administration and CIS graduates)
  • 86 associate degrees
  • 66 certificates/COCs
  • 12 two- and four-year diplomas

Dr. Duane Bedell, President of BMCC, expressed his pride in the graduates: “We are incredibly proud to recognize the largest graduating class in Bay Mills Community College history. Your hard work, resilience, and commitment to your education have brought you to this moment, and I am excited and honored to celebrate your accomplishments. On behalf of the entire BMCC community—congratulations! We can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make in the world.”

Bay Mills Tribal President Whitney Gravelle celebrated the milestone: “This year’s graduating class represents a powerful moment in our history – 184 graduates from 20 Tribal Nations across 16 States, many of whom are the first in their families to earn a college degree. It is a reflection of the strength, determination, and brilliance of our people. Education, especially education at Tribal Colleges & Universities, is rooted in sovereignty and accessibility, and when provided and prioritized our communities thrive. Congratulations to the BMCC class of 2025! “

These historic achievements underscore BMCC’s mission to empower students through culturally responsive education and highlights the transformative power of tribal colleges.

BMCC’s commencement ceremony will be held Friday, May 16, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. in Adikameg Hall at the main campus.

BMCC Media Contact:
Chelsey Cameron
Media & Marketing Specialist
Bay Mills Community College
[email protected]