Dear Golden Eagles,

Congratulations again to our newest alumni! Over the past three days, we graduated more than 6,500 students while welcoming some 40,000 friends, families, and loved ones.

This was an epic Commencement, one for the history books, with a new location giving new life and energy to these ceremonies. We celebrated philanthropist and biotech innovator Kevin Xu, recipient of an honorary doctorate, who invoked the memory of his late father, regenerative medicine pioneer Rongxiang Xu, in challenging the graduating students to provide positive global influence through science. Upon receiving his honorary doctorate, actor and medical doctor Ken Jeong spoke to the power of perseverance over life’s obstacles and unexpected curves. Comedian Jo Koy gave a moving acceptance speech following conferral of his honorary doctorate, speaking about the power of defying the expectations of others and staying in the game. Journalist Christine Devine accepted the inaugural Cal State LA Presidential Award with a reflection on her amazing journey and, true to her reputation as an ambassador and champion, told the stories of our bachelor’s recipients who started their journey in the Prison Graduation Initiative.

Provost Heather Lattimer drew the connection between the historic nature of the Shrine, a venue graced by many stars of television, film, stage, and music, and the true stars of our three-day Commencement:those receiving their doctorates, master’s, and bachelor’s degrees from Cal State LA in the Class of 2025. A selection of photos from the ceremonies as well as the preceding cultural graduations can be found here.

I’m still full of energy from this past week. The electric cheers of our graduates and all in attendance were amazing. I am honored to have been on that stage with the faculty, deans, and Cabinet to shake the hands or offer a hug to every person who crossed that stage. I’m grateful to California State University Trustee Larry Adamson, Trustee Wenda Fong, and Trustee Jose Antonio Vargas for joining us on stage at Commencement, their celebratory messages to graduates, and their enduring leadership for Cal State LA and the CSU system.

My deepest appreciation to our staff and managers who worked behind the scenes to make sure everything went smoothly. Thank you to James Cuaresma and Will Baker in University Advancement, who led the work. I also think they would be the first to say that teamwork across every university department made all nine ceremonies happen, and I add my thanks. Lastly, thank you to the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall team for being great partners. I’m excited to say we intend to continue at the Shrine!

As I shared in my last message, may those heading off to summer have a restful and recharging break. Thank you to all those remaining with us to support summer classes or to prepare for the fall semester.

In celebration and appreciation,

Berenecea Johnson Eanes, Ph.D.
President

# # #

California State University, Los Angeles is the premier comprehensive public university in the heart of Los Angeles. Cal State LA is ranked number one in the United States for the upward mobility of its students. Cal State LA is dedicated to engagement, service, and the public good, offering nationally recognized programs in science, the arts, business, criminal justice, engineering, nursing, education, and the humanities. Founded in 1947, the University serves more than 24,000 students and has more than 250,000 distinguished alumni.