Life long friendships, professors who care and unforgettable dorm experiences are just a few of the reasons Biola students are thankful for their alma mater.  Watch the video below to hear senior reflections on Biola as they said farewell to their beloved school.    

Renowned artist Mako Fujimura addressed graduates at Biola’s spring 2012 commencement ceremonies Memorial Day weekend. Nearly 300 graduate students walked on Friday, May 25 and 652 undergraduate students received their diplomas Saturday, May 26.

Fujimara encouraged graduates to embrace their ability to create as artists in whatever field or industry they plan to enter.

"Whether you are an entrepreneur, a nurse, an engineer, a scientist, a chef or if you are called to the arts, don't forget to learn or yield to the question, 'What do you want to make today?'" he said.

Fujimara, a New York artist, writer, and speaker who is recognized worldwide as a cultural influencer by both faith-based and secular media, has contributed internationally as an advocate for the arts. 

Posing the question "What do you want to make today?," the artist urged students to always ask this in life.

"Do not allow yourself to miss this opportunity to think about your contributions to the world," Fujimara said.

Fujimara seeks creativity alongside his faith — a true and rare combination within contemporary art.

“Mako Fujimura possesses a rare combination of God-given skills with the ability to communicate truth and beauty in a uniquely stirring way through his painting, writing and speaking,” said Biola University president Barry H. Corey. “Biola has been richly blessed by not one, but two inspirational visits this spring by Mako, instilling in our community a deeper understanding of art as Christ-followers.”Fujimara seeks creativity alongside his faith — a true and rare combination within contemporary art.

Read Fujimara's commencement address, "Starry Night," from Friday night's ceremony.

Watch Fujimara's commencement address, "What do you want to make today?" from Saturday's ceremony below.

Read Whittier Daily News' article, "Biola University's Class of 2012 receives degrees," and view a photo gallery of Biola's commencement.

Written by Jenna Bartlo, Media Relations Coordinator. For more information, Jenna can be reached at 562.777.4061 or at jenna.l.bartlo@biola.edu.