Hooding ceremonies honor the academic achievements of CBU students

Riverside, Calif. (Dec. 12, 2023) - Hundreds of graduate degree candidates at California Baptist University celebrated their academic achievements with hooding ceremonies leading up to commencement on Dec. 13.

Twenty-one doctoral candidates and 290 master’s degree candidates are eligible to participate in the fall commencement. Prior to commencement, colleges and schools at CBU host program-specific hooding ceremonies to recognize their candidates. Students are given distinctive colored hoods that represent their major to wear at their commencement ceremony. 

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences held a hooding ceremony on Dec. 12 for graduates in the counseling psychology, sport and performance psychology and forensic psychology programs.

Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, told the students the world needs their confidence, passion and faith.

“As you seek to be the difference in a hurting world, I am filled with hope for our families and children and organizations in our community that will benefit from your education and training,” Gustafson said. “I know that you're invested in seeking justice and opportunities to flourish for our most marginalized neighbors.”

Dr. Angela Deulen, professor of psychology, encouraged the graduates to remember Psalm 73:26 — “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

“Today you are embarking on a journey, and it will be a wonderful adventure, but sometimes the road will be hard. The work is fulfilling and it is rewarding, but it is also fraught with trials,” Deulen said. “On the days when it is more than you can handle, He will be your strength, your lifeline.”

Yesenia Moran, who earned a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, wants to work with children and adolescents.  She was appreciative of learning therapeutical skills and theory.  

“The faculty were helpful. They integrated faith into the program, which is really nice. All the teachers were very supportive,” Moran said.

Adrian Loreto, who earned a Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology, plans to earn a doctorate to teach and do research. He was appreciative of the guidance provided by Dr. Ed Garrett, director of The Center for Sport and Performance Psychology, and Dr. Kristin Mauldin, director of the sport and performance psychology program.

“They were very down to earth and approachable,” Loreto said. “They understood what was needed for the program, what each student needs to do, and they were by our side all the time.”

CBU will hold two commencement ceremonies on Dec. 13 in the Dale E. and Sarah Ann Fowler Events Center. For more information on commencement, please visit this link.