Over 1,000 West Coast University graduates from the California campuses and Online Programs gathered this November for the 2023 Fall Commencement at the Honda Center in Anaheim.
With nearly 11,000 loved ones cheering them on, graduates were welcomed by WCU Co-Presidents Ward Ulmer and Tim Lee. As they took a moment to honor the graduates and reflect on the significance of the day, they also recognized the family and friends whose support enabled the graduates to achieve their educational goals and embark on the next chapter of their professional journey.
Keynote speaker Dr. Kristin Christophersen, a former nurse and nursing executive officer for several healthcare organizations, shared how proud she was to help West Coast University grads enter the workforce. While overseeing 17 hospitals in Southern California and Nevada as a regional chief nursing officer, she partnered with WCU at career events with our graduates – which led to 137 of our RN graduates being hired by 13 of those hospitals in just one week.
“Today, we celebrate not just the culmination of your academic journey but the beginning of a lifelong commitment to a noble cause – healthcare,” she said. “Let me also acknowledge that you’ve chosen a path that’s not just about treating illnesses and mending wounds, but it’s about being a beacon of kindness in a sometimes harsh world.”
“You are part of a community of compassionate, dedicated professionals who share this same mandate,” she continued. “In the face of adversity, choose kindness, stay curious, be fierce, have the courage to be defiant when necessary, intentionally choose joy, and create possibility! You have the power to drive change, be the voice of those who cannot speak for themselves, and leave an indelible mark on the world.”
Graduates proudly took the stage to receive their diplomas, complete their hooding portion of the ceremony, and receive congratulatory greetings from WCU faculty and leaders. The Honda Center was filled with applause and cheers from family, friends, and associates who helped them reach this important milestone in their education.
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
