On Saturday, April 25, hundreds of HIU supporters, alumni, staff, and Student Ambassadors gathered 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 fundraising 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 2026 gala raised more than $200,000 for student scholarships, which is the second highest amount in the history of HIU's signature event.

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

HIU President Paul H. Alexander, Ph.D. (‘84, ‘88), delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the University's ongoing commitment to training up exceptional servant leaders to serve the Church and impact the world for Christ. Dr. Alexander interviewed several current ministry students about the significant impact of Hope on their education, vocational training, personal growth, and spiritual formation. 

Current HIU students Renee Rivas and Paul Cuelar shared personal testimonies of how God opened doors for them to attend Hope, providing the necessary financial assistance necessary, and how HIU is equipping them for a life of servant leadership.

Doug Crozier and Josh Means shared details of HIU's historic ministry partnership with The Solomon Foundation, along with HIU's Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Will Mullins. A new Foundation was established in the name of Dr. Alexander and his wife which will provide financial assistance for future generations of ministry students.

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

// VIEW PHOTO ALBUM (Flickr)