First Vietnamese-American woman in space inspires graduates

The event marked a joyous occasion to honour the achievements and transformative journeys of the class of 2025. With the theme "Roots & Wings" and the tagline "Our roots keep us strong, our wings set us far", this year's ceremony paid tribute to each student's path, shaped by the values of liberal arts education and Vietnamese identity.

Amanda Nguyen, the first Vietnamese and Southeast Asian woman to travel to space and a prominent social activist, served as the honoured speaker for Fulbright University Vietnam at the Ceremony. Amanda took with her 169 lotus seeds from Vietnam into space as a powerful symbol of life, wisdom, and the Vietnamese spirit. Her story, deeply rooted in her Vietnamese heritage while achieving global milestones, resonates profoundly with Fulbright's mission and the theme of this year's ceremony.

In a special moment at the event, Scott Fritzen, president of Fulbright University, conferred upon Amanda the title of Honorary Distinguished Fellow, recognising her impactful contributions to human rights, social justice, and advocacy for marginalised communities around the world. Her unwavering dedication and influence will serve as a lasting inspiration for future generations of innovators, changemakers, and community leaders at Fulbright. As part of the ceremony, Amada also gifted several of the lotus seeds she carried in space to the new Fulbright graduates. This symbolic gesture reflected her long-standing desire to inspire, empower, and embolden young Vietnamese to pursue their boldest dreams.

In her address to the class of 2025, Amanda shared profound reflections on empathy, courage, and love – values that have shaped her own extraordinary journey. She emphasised that the liberal arts education Fulbright students have received serves as a powerful foundation for creating positive change in the world. Amanda encouraged graduates to honour their roots and beginnings while boldly forging their own paths. With love and bravery, she reminded them that even dreams that once seemed out of reach, like travelling to space, can become reality.

Among the class of 2025, 36 students graduated with distinction, and 48 students graduated with Capstone Honours. Many individuals also made remarkable contributions to society through community projects, entrepreneurial initiatives, successful job placements, and academic achievements.

Their Fulbright journey not only prepared them for careers rich with opportunity, but also empowered them to lead lives of meaning and purpose. The graduates, with roots firmly grounded in culture, knowledge, community, and aspiration, are ready to grow towards a brighter future for the country and the world.

HDBank signs agreement with Fulbright University Vietnam During the official visit of US President Joe Biden to Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City Development Commercial Joint-Stock Bank (HDBank) and Fulbright University Vietnam signed a cooperation agreement to provide reciprocal capital worth $20 million to build the school and facilities.

Google grants $1.5 million to Fulbright University Vietnam for AI research and education Fulbright University Vietnam has received a $1.5 million grant from Google to advance AI research and education in Vietnam.

US government sponsors $5 million to establish YSEALI academy in Vietnam The US government will sponsor $5 million to establish the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) academy at Fulbright University Vietnam (FUV).