On Saturday, April 26, hundreds of HIU supporters, friends, alumni, Student Ambassadors, and staff converged in the Grand Ballroom of the Disneyland Resort Hotel to enjoy Hope International University's annual Spirit of Hope Concert & Awards Gala.The elegant evening of celebration, inspiration, and philanthropy highlighted HIU’s ongoing mission and legacy of preparing students through Christian Higher Education to serve the Church and impact the world for Christ. The 2025 gala raised more than $180,000 towards student scholarships.

HIU President Paul H. Alexander, Ph.D. (‘84, ‘88), delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the University's roots and ongoing commitment to training up generations of servant leaders to serve the Church and impact the world for Christ. He interviewed a current and future ministry student about why they chose Hope.

Current HIU student Gloria Catlin ('25), who grew up in the Midwest, shared her poignant, personal testimony of how God led her to Hope, provided the financial assistance necessary for them to attend, and how HIU is equipping her for vocational ministry.

Guests enjoyed musical performances by current graduate student, Gina Velez ('25) as well as the HIU Worship Team, directed by alumnus and professor Matt Thompson ('03), Chair of Worship Arts. Prior to the gourmet dinner and program, guests gathered for a pre-event reception, enjoying hors d’oeuvres, live music, Student Ambassadors, and a special photo op with Mickey Mouse.

The University is deeply grateful to all of our sponsors and faithful supporters whose generous donations make it possible for students to attend HIU. Your dollars make a significant impact by allowing them to pursue and fulfill God's calling on their lives and to extend the Hope of Christ to a world that so desperately needs Him.

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