The HNU–ASU International College at Hainan University (HAIC) held its 2025 graduation and degree conferment ceremony on June 5 in Haikou, Hainan province. Over 300 graduates celebrated their achievements in a ceremony filled with heartfelt reflections, global connections and words of inspiration for the future.

Wang Lin, dean of the HAIC, delivers an opening remark on June 5. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]

The ceremony opened with warm remarks from Dean Wang Lin, who highlighted the record number of graduates this year as a testament to the college's growth and the dedication of its students.

Michael Crow (left), president of ASU, and Cynthia Lietz (right), vice-provost of ASU’s Downtown Phoenix Campus, send their congratulations to the graduates via video. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]

Kelly Bricker, associate dean of the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions at ASU, speaks at the graduation ceremony on June 5. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]

Kelly Bricker, associate dean of the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions at ASU, praised the graduates for their resilience and diligence in completing their studies amidst challenges.

“Dig deep within yourself, for there lies the strength you need to pursue, to persevere. And as you continue to build your future, ask yourself: How do I wish to leave this world? Let this question guide you, challenge you and inspire you to live a life of purpose,” Bricker said.

Kimberly Peterkin speaks as a faculty representative. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]

Kimberly Peterkin, representing the HAIC faculty, congratulated the students on reaching an “incredible milestone” and encouraged them to embrace the future with courage and responsibility.

“Class of 2025, as you toss your caps into the air, take that celebratory jump and revel. Keep in mind, you are not just graduates—you are our hope for the future,” Peterkin noted.

Yue Wen, a member of the standing committee of the CPC HNU committee and vice-president of the university, speaks at the graduation ceremony on June 5. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]

Yue Wen, a member of the standing committee of the CPC HNU committee and vice-president of the university, reflected on the students' academic journeys, noting that their growth is closely related to the development of the HAIC and HNU.

“May you live up to your youth, pursue your dreams with determination and embrace a bright future filled with promise and great success,” said Yue.

Wang Lin and Kelly Bricker jointly officiate the symbolic tassel-turning ceremony. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]

Graduate representative Wang Shuhe shares her reflections on graduating from the HAIC. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC] 

Graduate representative Wang Shuhe, who has received offers from prestigious universities including Yale, shared her reflections on graduating from the HAIC. 

“We are not only learners of knowledge, but also active participants in society—a generation sensitive to public affairs and deeply concerned about the fate of our planet. In an era when the world often seems unsolvable, we will prove through our actions that the choices of young people still matter,” she said. 

Wang Lin then delivered a final lesson to the graduates, saying that true success lies not only in personal achievements, but also in positive impacts one makes on others and society. She suggested students to help others when facing challenges, and to tackle hardships with courage and grace.

“This is the essence of higher education: to understand yourself, others and society, and to enable you to plan for the future and be well prepared for it,” Wang added.

Graduates of the class of 2025 pose for a group photo with HAIC faculty. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]