FULLERTON, CA :: On Saturday, December 17, 2016, Hope International University proudly conferred degrees on 134 undergraduate and graduate students who successfully completed their chosen course of study. Drawn from the student body of over 2,000 students representing 31 states and more than 25 countries, these graduates now join over 9,000 alumni who carry HIU’s legacy of service and ministry to locations across the globe.

Undergraduate student Zachary Rutherford reminded his classmates that “this is the launching pad for a lifetime of ministry, regardless of what vocation you find yourself in.” Jasmine Walker, Graduate student, challenged her colleagues to keep in mind why they started this academic journey in the first place, and to “BE the difference!”

In her Commencement address, HIU’s Dean of the College of Business and Management, Dr. LaSharnda Beckwith, commended the graduates for “pushing past, discomfort and obstacles,” and to recall this accomplishment when facing future challenges. “Look at yourself in the mirror and say to yourself, ‘I did it. I achieved my goals back then (graduation day), and I can do it now.’”

This was HIU’s 102nd Commencement Ceremony and marks Hope International University’s 42nd academic year in Fullerton, where the University diligently maintains its commitment to advance the mission of Christ by empowering students through Christian higher education.

HIU streamed the Fall 2016 Commencement ceremony live online. To view the video archive on demand, click here.

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