Press Releases

Posted: December 19, 2018



FULLERTON, CA :: On Saturday, December 15, 2018, Hope International University proudly conferred degrees upon 68 undergraduate and 71 graduate students who successfully completed their chosen course of study. Drawn from a global student body of nearly 4,000 students representing 42 states and 16 countries, these graduates now join over 13,000 alumni who carry HIU’s legacy of servant leadership to locations across the globe.

During HIU’s 106thCommencement ceremony, undergraduate student speaker Caitlyn Burns (Bachelor of Arts in Education) encouraged fellow graduates to continue to grow from the challenges they face. Online undergraduate Fresia Barrios-Palominio(Bachelor of Science in Human Development) reminded the audience that “life is all about planting seeds.”  Graduate student Rob Denton (Master of Divinity) shared his gratitude for faculty and rejoiced in the accomplishment of graduating.

In his Commencement Address, TobyYurek (BA ‘95), Chair of HIU’s Board of Trustees, recounted how God has directed and redirected his life and career over the years. He encouraged graduates to allow God to "shift their paradigm" and direct them along life’s journey. 

Founded in 1928, HIU celebrates its 90thanniversary this academic year. The Fall 2018 Commencement Ceremony marks Hope’s 44th year in Fullerton, where the University diligently maintains its commitment to empowering students through Christian higher education to serve the church and impact the world for Christ. 

HIU streamed the event live online. To view the video archive on demand, click here.