College of Professional Studies

Friday, May 23, 2025 @ 11:00am

Academic Processional

“Processional of Joy”

Invocation

The Rev. Jen Rude, University Pastor

Greetings

Joanna Gregson, Provost, Professor of Sociology
Allan Belton, President

Faculty Retirements

Cameron Bennett, Dean of the College of Professional Studies, Professor of Music, presenting
Tom Smith, Professor of Theatre
Jan Weiss, Associate Professor of Education

Reflection

Alanna Angeles, Student Speaker
Parker Brown, Student Speaker

Dean’s Awards For Excellence

Cameron Bennett, Dean of the College of Professional Studies, Professor of Music

Commencement Address

Kory Brown, Professor Emeritus in the School of Business

Conferral of Degrees

Allan Belton, President

Closing Comments

Allan Belton, President

Prayer and Benediction

The Rev. Jen Rude, University Pastor

Recessional

“Processional of Joy”

Dr. Kory Brown is the CEO and owner of PNKLINK, INC. and Professor Emeritus at Pacific Lutheran University. Fueled by curiosity, his professional career spans diverse industries beginning in the semiconductor industry leading teams to innovate groundbreaking technologies, including an early role in the creation of the ZigBee wireless platform.

Midway through his professional journey, Dr. Brown pursued his passion for teaching, earning a Ph.D. in Strategic Management from the University of Utah and joined the faculty at PLU in 2010. Dr. Brown brought his innovative spirit into the classroom, creating highly experiential learning platforms that challenged students and elevated the School of Business to national recognition.

Co-founding PNKLINK, INC. in 2012, Dr. Brown and his wife Pam Brown, franchise and operate Great Clips hair salons in Washington. Under their leadership, PNKLINK, INC. has grown to be one of the largest hair salon organizations in the western United States.

Alanna Angeles (she/her)

Major: Bachelor of Business Administration with minors in Pre-Law and Innovation Studies
University Honors: summa cum laude
Hometown: Orting, WA
Why PLU? PLU’s welcoming environment fosters success both inside and outside the classroom. The dedication, accommodation, and recognition from each staff and faculty member creates a supportive atmosphere where students can thrive.
What is your fondest memory of PLU? I had the opportunity to study abroad in Tobago, and it was one of the most meaningful experiences of my time at PLU. Living and learning in a new cultural environment gave me a perspective I could never have gained in a traditional classroom. I came to understand the deep impact that culture, tradition, and community values have on how people approach life, work, and well-being.
What stood out most to me was the way people in Tobago prioritize balance. Unlike the often career-driven culture in the U.S., I found that there’s less pressure to constantly hustle and more space to breathe, connect, and live fully. That shift in mindset helped me realize the importance of protecting my peace and not tying my worth solely to productivity or professional achievements.
This experience truly changed how I think about success and how I want to carry myself moving forward.
What’s next for you? I will be entering the field of Accounting at PwC, working in a beautiful office in Seattle while also pursuing my CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license.

Parker Brown (he/him)

Major: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting/Directing with minors in Writing & Dance
Honor Society: Alpha Psi Omega (Theatre)
University Honors: magna cum laude
Hometown: Vancouver, WA
Why PLU? The smaller size of PLU was a huge factor in my decision. Being able to have a more personal connection with both faculty and student peers was a huge deal to me for my education.
What is your fondest memory of PLU? Directing Alpha Psi Omega’s 2025 spring production, “Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood.” It was such a wonderful experience where I could apply the skills I’ve learned and grown during these past four years.
What’s next for you? I’ll be working in Portland, auditioning, and taking internships as I work on the side. But most importantly, taking some time to celebrate with family and friends, and enjoy being in the present.