[ FULLERTON, CA ] -- On Thursday, October 17, 2019, the Hope International University celebrated the formal Inauguration of Dr. Paul H. Alexander as HIU's Seventh President. Dr. Alexander (BA ’84, MF ’88) is the first HIU alumnus to hold that office. Honored guests included local dignitaries and academic delegates, as well as present and former HIU trustees, administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni, friends, and Dr. Alexander's family. Members of the Nebraska Christian College community – HIU's branch campus in Papillion, NE – gathered to watch the historic event via live stream.

Author and speaker Steve Carter (BA ’02) delivered an inspiring address, reminding the audience that while HIU’s future is ultimately in God’s hands, it will be shaped by Dr. Alexander’s leadership, and impacted by the unity, commitment, and contributions of the entire HIU community. Toby Yurek (BA ’95), Chairman of HIU’s Board of Trustees, led the Ceremony of Investiture, and presented Dr. Alexander with the Presidential Medallion.

Deeply moved, Dr. Alexander expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve HIU as President – his self-proclaimed “dream job” – thanking the many people who poured into his life and career along the way. President Alexander avowed his steadfast commitment to HIU’s enduring mission of preparing servant leaders and empowering students through Christian higher education to serve the church and impact the world for Christ. He also shared his vision of HIU becoming the premier institution for training exceptional Christian pastors and leaders.

The ceremony included passionate prayers from Robert Alexander (Dr. Alexander’s father), Gene Appel (Pastor of Eastside Christian Church in Anaheim, CA), Fram Virjee (President of Cal State University, Fullerton), and JoeMarkum (Pastor of Christian Church of Thousand Oaks). HIU’s Praise Choir performed under the direction of Dr. Joseph Cho, Professor of Music. 

Immediately following the ceremony, Dr. Alexander greeted guests in the Pacific Auditorium lobby, then proceeded to a reception in the Hugh & Hazel Darling Library. 

// WATCH VIDEO (YouTube)

// PHOTO ALBUM (flickr)