Hope International University celebrated its 97th Commencement on Saturday, May 17, 2014. The over 200 graduates came from a student body of more than 1500 students representing 44 states and more than 20 countries.

The Spring 2014 Commencement marks HIU's 40th full academic year in Fullerton. The new graduates join over 8,700 HIU alumni who carry the Hope legacy, serving in business and ministry around the world.

During the ceremony, HIU President Dr. John Derry presented James Khong (MA "90) with an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity for his exemplary work in advocating Christian Higher Education in Southeast Asia. Dr. Khong is the Co-Founder, President, and Academic Dean of Eastern Bible Institute and the Founder of Eastern School of Graduate Studies. He has also assisted in establishing youth camps, leadership seminars, and church planting throughout Myanmar.

The commencement speaker, Brad W. Dacus, Esq., President of the Pacific Justice Institute, encouraged students to remain steadfast in their faith even in the face of conflict and challenges. "Up until now you have been in a status of training," Dacus said. "Well now is the time when the training takes a backseat to living, applying, and testing who you are and, better yet, whose you are.

"The race isn"t over," he continued, referring to Hebrews 12:1-2. "As you walk out that door today, congratulations not only on graduating, but congratulations on beginning a new race, a race to win for Jesus."

Spring 2014 Commencement was streamed live on the HIU website and the recording is available on demand by clicking here.