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The unusual May heat did not limit the pomp and circumstance at ��ݮ��Ƶ’s commencement ceremonies on May 9 and 10, where over 1,000 graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas. Biola President Barry H. Corey welcomed the graduates after their processional march to Metzger Lawn.

“To all of our graduates tonight, you’ve made us proud. Each of you has a story to tell and a lifetime to live out the unique way God will use you as a faithful presence in this world,” said Corey. “You’ve been strengthened in mind and character through your education at ��ݮ��Ƶ, and we have been strengthened because of you. I represent a community grateful that you have invested these years here.” 

With nearly 4,000 guests in attendance at each ceremony, the lawn was filled with the voices of the Biola Chorale led by Director Shawna Stewart and the soulful rhythm of the Biola Gospel Choir. Led by “American Idol” star Roman Collins, the Gospel Choir, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, set the tone for an exciting evening of graduates crossing the stage.

Both ceremonies featured a keynote address delivered by Dr. Kenneth Way, professor and chair of Old Testament and Semitics at Biola’s Talbot School of Theology. His focus on the word “endurance” emphasized a Christian’s call to persevere with God no matter the circumstance.

“God’s agenda for you may look different than your agenda,” said Way. “Even though you are the one graduating, God remains your master, and you remain God’s apprentice. You have only begun the process of growing and learning as a disciple of Jesus Christ. You get to learn from the life, teachings and from the sufferings of Jesus.”

Way shared his personal journey of his life being interrupted by a leukemia diagnosis, explaining how plans one makes for their life may be interrupted by God’s plans.

“Faith is the game-changer, folks. It’s why people who endure suffering are described as ‘blessed’ and joyous throughout the Scriptures,” said Way. “Isn’t blessing and joy what we want? Isn’t that why we’re here tonight? Maybe we were made for blessed endurance. Maybe the troubles and trials of life are intended for our good — the ultimate good, to form us into the image of our Creator, Jesus Christ.”

After hearing Way’s charges, graduates walked across the stage to celebrate their well-earned degree and shook hands with Corey as they received their diplomas. After the recessional, graduates met and celebrated with their guests around Biola’s campus.

On Friday, May 9, graduates from the Rosemead School of Psychology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Fine Arts and Communication and School of Science, Technology and Health received their degrees. On Saturday, May 10, graduates from the Crowell School of Business, School of Education, Snyder School of Cinema & Media Arts, and Talbot School of Theology walked the stage to receive their diplomas.

Father and son Craig Prichard (M.A. ’25) and Will Prichard (B.A.’22, M.A. ’25) received their master’s in business administration degrees together — a first in Biola’s history.

For those who were unable to attend in person, a live stream of and was available and can be viewed online. Additional Biola commencement information can be found on Biola’s commencement website. Visit the of moments captured during the ceremonies.

Written by Sarah Dougher, media relations specialist. For more information, please email media.relations@biola.edu.