Christmas at Columbia Southern University is a cherished tradition, bringing faculty and staff together to spread cheer and make new memories. It is also a time to give back and reflect on the many blessings we as a university have received. As 2025 comes to a close, I’d like to reflect on some highlights from the year.
Our fall commencement ceremony is always one of the most rewarding days of the year for our CSU family. This year’s commencement held the most graduates in CSU’s history, with roughly 1,200 students walking the stage to receive their diplomas. We hosted graduates and families from all over the world here in Orange Beach, including father and son Thomas and Ronald Dippel who traveled from Minnesota to graduate together.
Brandi Gomez, a 2025 graduate and the face of this year’s Alumni Magazine, earned her master’s degree in human resources. Brandi, like many of our students, is a parent with a busy career, yet she summoned the determination and courage to keep going. She faced the challenges that came with earning her degree as an adult and ultimately completed her program. Just like all of you, Brandi is a true testament to success.
Each new year, we continue to grow as a university. We launched 30 new degree programs, concentrations and certificates this year. We have created even more learning opportunities in the areas of instructional design and technology, health care, public administration, psychology, fire science, maritime safety, space operations and more.
Our university has made significant strides, none of which would be possible without the unwavering commitment of our faculty and staff.
CSU was also proud to partner with the American Heart Association for the 2025 Baldwin County Heart Walk in October. I was thrilled to serve as the chairperson for this event to raise awareness and funds for heart health and to celebrate survivors of heart disease. Thank you to all who came out to support this amazing cause.
As in years past, CSU was honored to participate in the 16th-annual Turkey Take-Out food drive in our local community of Baldwin County. Employees donated canned goods and nonperishable items to Anchor Point Church for families in need, helping an estimated 1,500 people enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. Giving back is rooted in our CSU family, and we are grateful for your generosity when it matters most.
I hope you all enjoy this holiday season. Here at CSU, we will close our offices so staff and faculty can spend the holidays with their loved ones. Our offices will be closed Dec. 24-26 in observance of the Christmas holidays and Jan. 1 to prepare for the new year.
As we transition into the new year, please let us know if we can support you in any way. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Dr. Ken Styron
President
Disclaimer: These testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes.
CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.
