Riverside, Calif. (Aug. 23, 2018) - California Baptist University wrapped up a day of celebration at its inaugural summer commencement ceremonies hosted on Aug. 23. A ceremony for traditional students was held in the morning followed by the Online and Professional Studies Ceremony hosted in the afternoon.

An estimated 4,500 individuals attended the dual summer commencement ceremonies at CBU.

Students for the summer commencement make up a record number graduation candidates for the Class of 2018 that total 2,848 candidates from the fall, spring and summer commencement ceremonies.

In his commencement address, Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president, said the ceremonies in the Events Center were an example of learning environments that CBU has assembled over the years for the benefit of the students.

“Like people, institutions also have a purpose—and the growth of California Baptist University truly has been a purposeful pursuit,” Ellis said. “It is the result of thoughtful strategy combined with decisive action—putting in place what I call the building blocks needed to reach our institutional objectives.”

Ellis exhorted graduates to use their “Great Commission” training to impact their respective environments.

“All of you have a story to tell. Many involve personal examples of service and transformation that you experienced or witnessed as you seized the opportunity to put your faith into practice,” Ellis said. “Graduates, your experiences at CBU have given you an important foundation and helped to equip you to figure out where you will go from here—personally, professionally, and perhaps most important, vocationally.”

Ellis encouraged students to spread their wings but to keep connected with the Lancer nation.

“My earnest hope and prayer is that each of you will lean into this new beginning with genuine Lancer zeal. May you live your purpose with passion and with the same determination that has guided you to this joyful day of celebration,” Ellis said.