Isabella Cannon Global Education Center

To celebrate Elon’s 135th Commencement on May 23, Today at Elon is highlighting several graduating seniors who have made the most of their Elon experience.

The sport management major is leading a global initiative to build accessible turf soccer fields in underserved communities, with the latest project underway in northern Argentina. Inspired by a childhood trip and fueled by study abroad experiences, his mission blends a love of soccer with a drive to create lasting social impact.

The senior from Burlington, North Carolina, will become the first Elon student to graduate after completing three signature programs designed to increase access to higher education.

Robby Van Riet started his college experience like any other student, but when a medical challenge changed his course, his determination and Elon helped him ‘surf the waves,’ rather than ‘change the current.’

The Isabella Cannon Global Education Center (GEC) has announced the recipients of the 2025 Dean’s Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding students, faculty and staff whose work has significantly advanced global engagement across Elon University.

Two cinema and television arts majors have earned multiple awards for their film, “The Desert Gardener,” which highlights a former science teacher’s mission to fight food insecurity through urban farming.

Brandstetter will deliver the “Message of Appreciation” during Elon University’s 135th commencement exercises on May 23.

Braxton Mayhew first landed an internship at Ally, a global communications and marketing firm, but the opportunity has now transformed into a part-time role for the Elon student.

Elon LA’s “Alumni Wisdom Session” is held every semester, and features a rotating group of accomplished LA-based alumni who share their advice, perspectives and experiences with current semester students.

A new memorandum of understanding between Elon University and the University of Madras will foster exchange for faculty and students and support global learning.