Life Pacific University recently celebrated its 2024 Commencement Weekend, a significant milestone for our graduates from its East, West, and Online campuses. The weekend was filled with inspiring speeches, heartfelt reflections, and the culmination of years of dedication and hard work, showcasing the achievements of a diverse and resilient student body.

MA Hooding Ceremony

Commencement Weekend began on the morning of May 10th with the annual Master’s Hooding Ceremony. This special event recognized the academic achievements of master’s students and featured distinguished speakers Natalia Alvarez from the Master’s in Leadership (Spanish), Robert Bankhead from the Master’s in Strategic Leadership, and Catherine Pester from the Master’s in Theological Studies. Each speaker shared valuable insights and encouragement, highlighting the importance of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. The ceremony was a poignant reminder of the rigorous academic journey undertaken by these graduates and the bright futures that lie ahead.

Baccalaureate Service

Later that evening, the Baccalaureate service provided a moment of spiritual reflection and celebration. Speakers Ellyanna Edwards for the Traditional Undergraduates and Patty Kuehl for the Online Undergraduates delivered moving addresses, emphasizing the role of faith and community in the graduates’ journeys. Alongside Dr. Ted Vail, VP of the Foursquare Global Church, these speakers encouraged their classes and brought encouragement to move forward in their God-given callings in the Church, the workplace, and the world. It was a time for graduates to reflect on their personal and academic journeys, acknowledge the support of their loved ones, and prepare their hearts and minds for the future. Ending in a time of impactful prayer with staff, faculty, and families surrounding them, the Class of 2024 was prepared to take to the graduation stage to accept their diplomas.

Commencement Ceremony

The festivities culminated on May 11th with the Commencement Ceremony, the pinnacle of the weekend’s celebrations. Alumni Rev. Sonny Arguinzoni Jr. ‘94, Lead Pastor of Victory Outreach Chino Hills, delivered the keynote address. His speech resonated deeply with the graduates, as he shared his own experiences and journey since graduating from LPU and founding Victory Outreach International. He encouraged the graduates to lead with purpose and compassion, drawing on their education and faith as they navigate their future careers and personal lives.

During the Commencement Ceremony, LPU was able to honor Dr. Remi Lawanson the status of Professor Emeritus for his excellent service to LPU for the past 11 years as the Director of the Master’s in Strategic Leadership Program upon his retirement from full-time work this year. There were also 2 Honorary Doctorate Recipients LPU had the joy of awarding – Gary Matsdorf, M.A. with a Doctor of Divinity and Carol Shelton, M.A. with a Doctor of Letters.

Throughout the weekend, the spirit of community and achievement was palpable. The graduates, representing diverse backgrounds and academic disciplines, celebrated their accomplishments surrounded by proud families, friends, and faculty members. The ceremonies highlighted the supportive environment of Life Pacific University and its commitment to fostering leaders, innovators, and changemakers. The sense of camaraderie and mutual support was evident in every aspect of the weekend’s events, reflecting the close-knit community that LPU is known for.

Life Pacific University’s 2024 Commencement Weekend was a testament to the enduring spirit of its students and the impactful Christ-Centered, Spirit-filled education they received. As the new graduates step into their futures, they carry with them the values, knowledge, and experiences gained at LPU, ready to make meaningful contributions to the Church, the workplace, and the world. The university’s commitment to holistic education—encompassing academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community engagement—was evident in every moment of the weekend.

The class of 2024 leaves Life Pacific University not just as graduates, but as leaders equipped to face the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. They are prepared to make significant contributions in their chosen fields, grounded in the principles of integrity, compassion, and service. The future holds great promise for these new alumni, and the LPU community eagerly anticipates the positive impact they will undoubtedly make in the world.

Learn more about LPU’s programs here.