HPU conferred associate, baccalaureate, or master degrees on more than 600 students at the University’s 55th commencement ceremony Jan. 7 at the Waikiki Shell.

The HPU International Chorale, accompanied by the Sea Warrior Band, opened the graduation ceremony with the national and state anthems and the University alma mater.

Fellow of the Pacific Awards, the University’s highest accolade, were presented to HPU Trustee Wilmur Morris and Randall Roth, senior policy advisor on education to Gov. Linda Lingle. Both men were selected for their outstanding leadership, research, contributions to higher education, and continuing service and dedication to the community. Morris, a long time Hawai‘i resident, has successfully raised funds for many community organizations. Roth delivered the commencement speech.

Three valedictory speakers also made presentations.

Michael Glod, who graduated with a B.A. in International Relations, represented the downtown and windward on-campus baccalaureate degree programs.

DesaRae Atnip, who graduated with a Master of Arts in Communication, represented the graduate degree programs.

Scott Bainton, who graduated with a B.S.B.A. in International Business, represented the military campus programs.