A result of their faith and perseverance throughout their academic path, 380 students at Brigham Young University-Hawaii–of whom 371 hold bachelor’s degrees and nine hold associate degrees, graduated in the winter of 2024 including two Samoans.

It culminated in a triumphant end on Friday with families, loved ones and relatives from all around the world at the Cannon Activities Center (CAC) situated on the University's campus.

The joyful occasion was presided over by the University President, John S.K. Kauwe lll, and joined by members of the church educational system board of education, faculties, and professors.

The graduates represent 23 different countries and age ranges from 19 years old to 50-years-old, 44 per cent of graduates being celebrated today are from outside of the United States and the remaining 56 per cent come from 34 states. A total of eight per cent of graduates are from the Oceania region and 31 per cent from the Asian realm. In conclusion, 88 per cent graduates held at least one job at the Polynesian Cultural Center during their time at the school.

President Kauwe in his opening remarks, acknowledged and expressed gratitude for the diverse set of talents and capacity of each student that has blessed the campus over the last few years.

“The concerted efforts of parents, church leaders, seminary and institute programs, education provided by the church colleges of the Pacific and BYU pathway worldwide, all provide a wonderful foundation for the students," he said.

According to Pr. Kauwe, the university’s mission is that this capstone experience prepares students to be leaders and life-long disciples of Christ who can be leaders and examples of peace and unity in their families and their communities.

Shareef Basan, a Filipino business management graduate, stated in a succinct but emotional statement that even though he may not have had much, his faith led him on a journey and all the experiences that imparted him the will and fortitude to pursue further education.

He shared that after being turned down for admission to BYU-H on his first attempt, he decided to move out of province to find work in Manila to earn enough funds to apply a second time, which is what led to his acceptance and ultimate enrollment in the school, despite every challenge and financial constraints his family was facing.

"The night I got the letter, I sobbed myself to sleep and told myself to grip onto a dream with faith, and shall never forget the humble beginnings that have put me to where I am today," he said.

“My mother has been the source of inspiration and guiding light throughout the way and her belief, sacrifices and unwavering support in my dream has been the cornerstone of my journey.

“Mama, we may not have seen each other for eight years now and thousands of miles apart, but this achievement is for you."

Bobby Senar, a proud graduate of Bachelor in Entrepreneur Biology and Education, from PNG said sweet success is through endless struggle.

“We can not expect to get something by doing nothing. The challenges and obstacles are what I believe has driven each graduate today,” he said.

Kia Fiu, a graduate with a Bachelor in Accounting from Hawaii and married to a Samoan said, words could not express how excited and grateful she is to her spouse, family and friends for all they did to help her in her academic journey.

“Work hard and play hard,” she said.

Flora Terry John, from PNG immediately dedicated her success to family back home.

Flora said her mother has been her greatest supporter and strength though they are miles apart but her success today is as much as it is hers that it is and a result of her sacrifices and persistent support.

“Believe in your dreams and strive for flying colors,” she said.

Jemima Ferguson, from Fiji stated that her achievement is dedicated to her parents and siblings as the eldest and first generation in her family to graduate from College.

“Neither of my parents went to College and so I’m the first generation to graduate with a degree in our family, and this achievement is for them,” she said.

‘I can do it’ is Ms Ferguson's favorite quote that has always been a reminder throughout her journey at BYU.

In his remarks, R. Kelly Haus, deemed the graduates’ attention to the leadership of the institution, which is chaired by President Russel M. Nelson, the first presidency of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Brother Haus emphasized the roles that the Board of Trustees is anchored by, as well as an assortment of wonderful and consoling remarks for all graduates.

“Graduates, we love you. You are graduating from a university with the distinct advantage of having been led by those we sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators,” he said.

Furthermore, according to BYU-H, women outnumber males in school enrolment, with women making up 55 per cent and men only 45 per cent.