ALISO VIEJO – Graduates of Soka University of America’s undergraduate class of 2011 celebrated their commencement ceremony in the school’s new Performing Arts Center on Friday afternoon.
Many graduates wore leis and graduation caps adorned with the numbers 7 and 11.
“Lucky seven, class of ’11,” said Soka University graduating senior Krystal Roush, referring to the university’s seventh undergraduate class to receive diplomas.
All 86 graduates received bachelor’s degrees in liberal arts, with loud cheers erupting from hundreds of family members and friends. The graduation ceremony was streamed online for family members and friends who were unable to attend the ceremony.
Soka University of America is part of the Japanese Soka education system, founded on Buddhist principals of peace, human rights and sanctity of life, according to soka.edu. University officials estimate half of the students at Soka’s Aliso campus come from 40 other countries.
Soka University president Daniel Habuki reminded graduates of the Soka principals, and referenced words of wisdom from his own graduation from a Soka high school in 1971.
“Please never forget to be human, and to be yourself,” Habuki said. “Never lose sight of who you are … despite not knowing what’s to come.”
Aliso Viejo Mayor Carmen Cave praised the graduates for their accomplishments, and expressed the city’s continued support for the school as the campus celebrates its 10th anniversary.
The Dean of students read a message from the university’s founder, Daisaku Ikeda, who could not attend the ceremony. Ikeda’s son Hiromasa Ikeda delivered the commencement address.
“My father encouraged me to be patient and persevere. If you isolate yourself, you will not prosper. We are able to achieve our greatest when we work in partnerships,” Hiromasa Ikeda told the graduates, a nod to their learning environment.
Friday’s commencement ceremony marked the first official event to be held in the school’s $73 million performing arts center and academic building. The 1,000-seat concert hall is expected to be used for graduations, performances, lectures and community events.
Three graduating seniors were chosen to conclude Friday’s ceremony before the choir and orchestra’s rousing performance of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.”
Mohammad Ali Ahsan drew laughter from the crowd as he recounted memories of pranks with friends and other typical college experiences. But Ahsan also recounted the unique educational journey his classmates had each embarked upon.
“As we proceed into the real world, during these moments … when we’re discouraged or beat down, reflect back on our time here,” Ahsan said. “Class of 2011, I wish you way more than luck.”
Contact the writer: 949-454-7343 or kchu@ocregister.com
