FULLERTON, CA :: On Saturday, December 16, 2023, Hope International University proudly held its 113th Commencement Ceremony in the Darling Pavilion of the Lawson-Fulton Student Center. Students earning graduate degrees, undergraduate degrees, and Spanish Track certificates were celebrated and cheered by the HIU faculty, staff, and an enthusiastic audience of loved ones and supporters. 

Dr. Joe Grana, Special Assistant to the President, delivered an moving Commencement Address on the topic of "Being and Doing." Dr. Grana served HIU's Pacific Christian College of Ministry & Biblical Studies faithfully for 37 years, pouring his heart, soul, and wisdom into generations of students. He was Chair of the Church Ministry Department for fifteen years and then was appointed Dean in 2010. 

Three graduating students were chosen to represent their colleagues: Joey Legg (traditional undergraduate), Mia La Coste (online undergraduate), and Brittany Brechwald (graduate studies). Each shared their personal journey to Hope, reflections on their HIU experience, and expressed gratitude to everyone who supported them along the way.

HIU's very first Doctoral degrees were conferred, marking a significant milestone in the school's history. Johnathon Sanchez, Reema Takla, and Teressa Wilcox each earned a Doctorate in Marriage & Family Therapy.

Founded in 1928, the University moved to the Fullerton campus in 1973. HIU maintains a diligent commitment to its mission of empowering students through Christian Higher Education to serve the Church and impact the world for Christ. The Winter 2023 Class joins thousands of HIU alumni around the globe who embody our legacy of exceptional servant leadership. 

// HIU streamed the event live on Facebook and YouTube.

// View our online photo album.