Cal Poly Pomona Honors International Students at Graduation Celebration
Cal Poly Pomona proudly celebrated its graduating international students May 15 in a heartfelt ceremony at the International Center, recognizing the achievements of students from around the globe who have called the university home. With approximately 45 students in attendance, the event was a reflection of the diversity, determination, and academic excellence that international students bring to the Bronco community.
The celebration opened with lunch featuring international dishes, continued with warm welcome remarks from event MC Junko Takada, international student advisor, and Lisa Xue, assistant vice president for Global Campus and senior international officer (SIO). Their opening set the tone for a gathering filled with pride and gratitude for the students' journeys.
Xue shared reflections on the growth and resilience she witnessed from students over the past few years, particularly as many navigated remote learning, cultural adjustment and academic rigor simultaneously.
“Your courage to pursue education far from home has not only enriched your lives but has also left a lasting impact on this campus,” Xue said.
Arthur Wang, the interim associate director of international program operations, emphasized the importance of global engagement and encouraged graduates to remain connected as international alumni of Cal Poly Pomona. He acknowledged the unique perspectives international students bring to classrooms and the broader campus culture.
A special highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Dao Nguyen, a licensed psychologist from Cal Poly Pomona’s Student Health and Counseling Center. Nguyen read a short story about a green little fish who lived in a pond under a tree, who found out about the diversity and exciting world after leaving the pond he lived in. Nguyen said international students often face challenges and offered encouragement for graduates as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
“You are more than your degree—you are resilient, capable, and now you are a citizen of the world,” Nguyen said.
Following the remarks, graduates gathered for a group photo to commemorate the occasion and capture the connections they’ve built during their time at the university.
With more than 800 international students enrolled, Cal Poly Pomona remains a destination of choice for students seeking high-quality, hands-on education in the United States. The university’s global community continues to grow, enriching campus life and strengthening cross-cultural understanding. The celebration for international students serves as a reminder of the university’s commitment to global learning and student success.