Oneida Baptist Institute to Celebrate Class of 2025 Saturday

May 16, 2025

ONEIDA, Ky. — The Oneida Baptist Institute will honor its graduating seniors during the school’s 117th Commencement Service on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. The ceremony will be held in the Melvin Davidson Chapel, where students, families, and faculty will gather to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2025.

This year’s graduation ceremony will feature traditional hymns, reflections, and addresses from student speakers, including Rachel Monday and Ester Sugplang, both of whom will deliver the Graduate Address. Honors distinctions will also be awarded, recognizing those who have achieved high academic standing.

As the senior class prepares to take their next steps beyond Oneida, school leaders are emphasizing the importance of their academic and personal achievements.

The Class of 2025 includes:

Yoseph Asrat

Akawaq Bekele**

Branson Bowling**

Charity Carpenter

Samuel Cho

Sonita Choeun

Jesse Dare-Kuforiji

Nathanael Dourng*

Leul Enquanhone*

Jason Erhunmwunse

Jason Fan

Soliyana Gebretatiyos**

Hannah Gray**

Chandler Gregory

Alexis Hoskins

Paige Hubbard

Chanhwi Jeon

Samuel Malone

Rachel Monday*

Moyele Olayinka

Layla Sims**

Ester Sugplang*

Serey Svay

Matthew Woods**

Odom Yean**

(*Summa cum laude = GPA 4.1+ | **Magna cum laude = GPA 3.8–4.0 | ***Cum laude = GPA 3.6–3.79)

The evening will also include musical performances by the OBI Choir under the direction of John Monday, with hymns and selections celebrating the faith and foundation of the Oneida Baptist Institute.

OBI President Larry A. Gritton, Jr., Principal Joseph W. Scull III, and Campus Minister Dr. David Price will lead various portions of the ceremony, offering messages of encouragement and commendation.

With this milestone, Oneida Baptist Institute continues its legacy of preparing students for lives of purpose, leadership, and service. The community is invited to join in celebrating this important occasion for the Class of 2025.