FULLERTON, CA :: On Saturday, May 18, 2024, Hope International University celebrated its 114th Commencement Ceremony in the Darling Pavilion of the Lawson-Fulton Student Center. The Class of 2024 is the second largest group of graduates in HIU's 96-year history. Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral degrees were conferred on students who successfully completed their course of study. A capacity crowd of loved ones and supporters joined with HIU faculty, staff, administration, and trustees to witness and cheer the graduates on their momentous achievement. 

HIU President Paul Alexander, Ph.D., delivered an inspiring Commencement Address about trusting God in every circumstance, noting that many of the 2024 graduates began their college experience during the COVID global quarantine. Dr. Alexander, a 2-time HIU alumnus, has been serving the University for 30 years in various leadership capacities. He was appointed President in August of 2019, less than an year before COVID caused the suspension of on-campus classes. 

Three graduating students shared reflections on their HIU journey: Mackenzy Jespersen (traditional undergraduate), Jeanette Cronk (online undergraduate), and Ellysen Johnson (graduate studies). The Medford B. Jones Servant Leader Award was presented to Frank Fierro (undergraduate), Andrea Priebe (graduate), and James R. Gordon (graduate) for exceptional service outside the classroom.

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 Spring 2024 graduates join thousands of HIU alumni around the globe who embody our ongoing legacy of servant leadership and the priesthood of all believers.

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

// View Photo Gallery (Flickr)