On May 15, Michael A. Carroll Stadium will transform into a beautiful ceremony space for IU Indianapolis’ commencement ceremony. During this year’s graduation celebration, London Okowa, a graduating student from the IU Kelley School of Business in Indianapolis, will give the undergraduate speech.
Double majoring in business management and human resource management and minoring in communication studies, Okowa was very active on campus and in the community. She has served as president of the Collegiate 100, vice president of the NAACP IU Indianapolis chapter, and a peer mentor for OTEAM and the Diversity Enrichment and Achievement Program.
JagNews talked with Okowa about her time at IU Indianapolis and what it means to be selected as the 2025 undergraduate commencement speaker.
Q: Why did you choose your major?
A: I chose this major because I’ve always had a strong business acumen and wanted to apply it in a way that positively impacts people. Human resources allows me to be that key point of contact with someone who can translate important information into plain language so others can fully understand and feel empowered.
Q: Why did you apply to be the student commencement speaker?
A: My entire life, people have always told me that I have a way with words. I’ve been in many competitions that have reaffirmed this, but I never truly believed this about myself.
I had a conversation with my aunt, who was the IUPUI Black Grad speaker over 10 years ago, and she motivated me to apply. She said, “Don’t count yourself out because you never know who will count you in.” I went home that same night and applied, and the rest is history.
A: I hope graduates leave with a deep reverence for this milestone. No matter the journey it took to get here, we made it.
I also want them to remember the importance of community. Throughout our time here, we’ve built a village of friends, professors, staff and organizations. As we move into the next chapter of our lives, I hope we lean on each other and uplift one another.
Q: What is one of your favorite memories from your time at IU Indianapolis?
A: One of my favorite memories is the Diversity Enrichment and Achievement Program’s Family Reunion. I was a sophomore at the time, and after a tough freshman year, this event helped me find a sense of belonging. I met people who are now lifelong friends.
At the end of that day, I remember thinking, “This is exactly where I’m supposed to be.” Less than six months later, I became a peer mentor for DEAP.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I will be studying abroad in Poland through an intercultural communication program with the School of Liberal Arts. Upon my return, I will begin a full-time role with Republic Airways as a human resource shared services specialist.
Q: How has IU Indianapolis helped prepare you for your career?
A: IU Indianapolis has given me the tools and resources I needed to start my professional journey, whether through career services, mentorship opportunities or direct connections with employers. I’ve felt supported every step of the way in my professional career.
