A Stage of Stars: Honoring Excellence, Uplifting Dreams Or Where Dreams Take The Stage

Held for the first time at the historic Shrine Auditorium in downtown Los Angeles, this year’s Commencement ceremonies welcomed more than 5,500 graduates and 40,000 guests over three days of proud and joyful celebration from May 19 to 21. The Class of 2025 was composed of 6,501 students— with 5,255 earning bachelor’s degrees, 1,215 master’s degrees, and 31 doctorates.

And as their names were called and diplomas were received, graduates were reminded that they are part of a University that stands tall among the stars—both figuratively and, this year, quite literally.

Recognizing Champions of Creativity, Compassion, and Community

In partnership with the California State University Board of Trustees, Cal State LA awarded honorary doctorates to three individuals whose lives and work reflect the University’s mission to transform lives and empower dreams.

Kevin Xu – Doctor of Humane Letters

A visionary in the biotech world and a dedicated philanthropist, Kevin Xu is the CEO and chairman of MEBO International, Inc. and the founder of the National Rongxiang Xu Foundation. His groundbreaking work in regenerative medicine is matched only by his commitment to education and public health access.

“This honorary Doctor of Humane Letters is not a destination— it is a reminder,” Xu shared. “A reminder to keep learning, keep building, and keep lifting others with you. ... Education must empower the next generation.”

Ken Jeong – Doctor of Fine Arts

The actor, comedian, writer, and producer known for his roles in The Hangover, Community, and The Masked Singer, Ken Jeong is also a vocal advocate for the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. During his keynote, he delivered heartfelt, humorous wisdom with the rhythm only a seasoned performer could offer.

“Never stop learning, never stop growing,” he told graduates. “The goal is not to be the best. The goal is to be your best. And how can you be at your best? Persistence.”

Jo Koy – Doctor of Fine Arts

Global comedy icon Jo Koy was honored for his contributions to the arts and cultural representation. Drawing from his Filipino American roots and a journey that began in a Las Vegas coffee shop, Koy has sold out arenas around the world and broken barriers for diverse voices in comedy.

In classic Jo Koy style, he lightened the moment: “She’s the president,” he joked, pointing to President Berenecea Johnson Eanes. “She can take all your diplomas away today. So don’t mess up.”

A New Tradition: The Presidential Award

Cal State LA also introduced the Presidential Award, given to an individual whose work reflects the University’s mission and uplifts the greater Los Angeles community. President Eanes presented the award to Christine Devine, longtime FOX 11 Los Angeles journalist and a dedicated advocate for underrepresented communities.

“Few people embody the spirit of this award more than Dr. Devine,” Eanes said. “Her ongoing coverage of social work, foster care, and incarcerated individuals exemplifies what it means to have stewardship of the LA community.”

Devine’s connection to Cal State LA runs deep—she was
on hand not only to receive the award but also to report a powerful story: five paroled members of the University’s Prison Graduation Initiative who crossed the stage to receive their degrees.

Looking Ahead with Pride

This year’s Commencement marked more than a milestone—it affirmed Cal State LA’s role as a transformative force in the lives of its students and the greater community. From first-generation college students to global changemakers, the graduates of 2025— and the stars who stood beside them—remind us that “We Are LA: resilient, empowered, and ready to lead.”