CBU concludes 2021 summer commencement ceremonies
Riverside, Calif. (Aug. 19, 2021) – California Baptist University wrapped up two days of celebration this week for the summer 2021 commencement ceremonies. Students received praise and encouragement in front of friends and family members during three ceremonies in the Events Center on Aug. 18-19.
Combined applications for graduation for summer 2021 commencement ceremonies included 17 candidates for doctoral degrees, 608 for master’s degrees and 376 for bachelor’s degrees for a total of 1,001 applicants.
In the commencement address, Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of California Baptist University, congratulated the graduates on their academic achievements.
“Each of these graduating students has arrived at this point because of a shared commitment to the challenging yet rewarding endeavor of higher education,” Ellis said. “The Board of Trustees, administrators, faculty and staff members join to celebrate and honor the exceptional efforts each of you has made to earn your degree.”
Ellis acknowledged the challenges the students faced during the pandemic.
“It would be difficult to argue the fact that we are celebrating an exceptional group of graduates –– not only for California Baptist University, but for all time. For more than a year, the very definition of normal repeatedly has been reshaped and redefined as you adapted in real time,” Ellis said. “Through the sacrifices you made, your true character was exemplified, and the relentless pursuit of your educational goals was steadfast. You manifested what it means to Live Your Purpose.®”
Jelaiya Jacob, who earned a Bachelor of Computer Science, wants to go into the video game industry. She said she struggled through many classes, but the engineering faculty believed in her.
“I found myself growing curious about their belief in me, so I was determined to find
the person that they saw in me,” Jacob said. “I was afraid of more failure, but I
had a new mindset that wanted me to at least try. I'm sure that God knew I had the
strength to persevere through college all along, but I guess it took some failure
for me to realize that.”
Victoria Lenahan earned a Master of Business Administration through the Division of Online and Professional Studies. She currently works for a school district but wants to work for a nonprofit in the future.
“I think CBU gave me a direction on how I can use my talents to help other people,” Lenahan said. “My faith has always been strong, but CBU gave me more of an insight to knowing there is a plan.”
Joshua Maddox earned a Bachelor in in Music for Worship Arts and Ministry and will be going on to The Los Angeles Recording School. He said CBU provided the opportunity to network professionally, build his confidence as a musician and deepen his faith.
“CBU definitely has prepared me for the music industry by creating an environment that allows its students to work with each other cohesively, tackling new problems and creating solutions for a better tomorrow,” Maddox said.