Riverside, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2019) – California Baptist University honored its latest graduates during dual summer commencement ceremonies hosted on Aug. 22.

There were 872 students eligible to participate in summer commencement ceremonies. That number, combined with graduation candidates for the previous fall and spring commencements, totals 2,920 candidates for the Class of 2019, representing CBU’s largest graduating class yet.

 

CBU also opened its new East Parking Structure for the first time for a commencement crowd. Many attendees arrived through the new main campus entrance off Adams Street and parked within the five-level structure that features two elevator towers and more than 1,450 stalls.  

Dr. Thom Rainer, founder and CEO of Church Answers, was the commencement speaker. Rainer encouraged graduates to be “a person with a vision and become a difference maker” for God.  

“Jesus tells us the only way to really follow him is not to seek to be served at the throne, but to serve,” Rainer said. “His message is clear. Do you really want to see visions? Do you really want to make a difference? Get to the end of the line. Abandon the entitlement mentality. Don’t worry about getting credit.”

Rainer also challenged the audience to trust in God.

“I do pray, however, you will hear God’s Word more than the address of a (graduation) speaker. I pray you will hear he has given you a life to live to make a difference. I pray you will ask him how you can make a difference with the plan he has clearly given,” Rainer said.

The ceremonies drew an estimated 5,400 spectators.

Krystal Louise, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies degree, was excited that 10 of her family members and friends were able to attend the ceremony.

“I give all the glory to God for this accomplishment,” Louise said. “I believe that my skillset has developed at CBU. I am a better communicator and I also believe that my leadership style has been forged.”

Elizabeth Boehling graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration degree through the CBU Online and Professional Division. Boehling works for the County of Riverside and choose CBU Online for its flexibility.

“I want to advance in my career field and coming to CBU was a part of my career path,” Boehing said. “The professors were a great help to me and they worked well with my schedule.”