Hope International University's President, Dr. John Derry, surprised the faculty, staff, and student body during his Convocation address to open the 2014-2015 school year. At the conclusion of his inspirational address, dressed in full academic regalia, he took the "Ice Bucket Challenge' to benefit ALS, a.k.a. Lou Gehrig's Disease. The Ice Bucket Challenge, fueled by social media, has raised awareness and over $40 million in donations to fight ALS and fund research.*

In his stirring address, Dr. Derry reinforced HIU's commitment that "student success is our top priority." He illustrated how the value of Christian higher education far exceeds the economic cost, and reminded students of the investment that generous donors have made to help fund scholarships and grants -- because of their deep belief in the life-transforming value of attending HIU. Dr. Derry reminded the audience that one cannot put a price tag on the life-long relationships and invaluable experiences they"ll gain as a HIU student.

President Derry also highlighted what sets HIU apart from other institutions: our mission, our curriculum, our Christian environment, and most of all, our people. "The genuine concern for one another among students and faculty is what you find in a close knit family. I can"t even recall all the times I"ve seen the community come together when someone has a personal need. People share their time, their resources, and their possessions and they open up their homes as expressions of Christian fellowship in the best sense.  That kind of encouragement and support is invaluable and you don"t realize how important it is until you are on the receiving end. We should never take for granted this environment."

After encouraging the students to take full advantage of the resources and opportunities afforded them at HIU, he concluded the Convocation by accepting the Ice Bucket Challenge to the delight and applause of all in attendance.  Watcth the video of this memorable moment below: