LABI College Celebrates 99th Commencement with Honor, Heritage, and Hope
- LABI College
- 2 minutes ago
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Covina, CA — May 17, 2025 — LABI College and the Latin American Theological Seminary proudly hosted their 99th Annual Commencement Ceremony at Hearts on Fire Church in Covina, California. With nearly 100 graduates crossing the stage, this year’s event honored academic excellence, spiritual formation, and nearly a century of legacy in Christian higher education.
Family, friends, faculty, and church leaders gathered to celebrate candidates from four academic programs, including:
Spanish Certificate in Biblical Studies
Certificate in Ministerial Studies
Associate of Arts in Bible & Ministry
Bachelor's in Theology (Latin American Theological Seminary)
Honors and Distinctions: The Class of 2025 included several Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Cum Laude honorees. This year’s Valedictorians—Marcela Martinez (AA), Roberto Acosta (LATS), and Jose Arturo Hernández Arroyo (Spanish Certificate)—each delivered powerful reflections during the ceremony, representing the excellence and dedication of LABI’s diverse student body.
Ceremony Highlights:
Invocation by Rev. William Rodriguez, Superintendent of the Southern Pacific District
Worship led by Pastor Marcos Correa and the LABI Worship Team
Presentation of the Centennial Award to Dr. Carmen Rivera
The conferral of an Honorary Doctorate Degree to Rev. Donna Barrett
Commencement Address: Rev. Donna Barrett, General Secretary of the Assemblies of God USA, delivered a stirring address that challenged and empowered graduates to lead with conviction and Godly character. In a defining moment, she declared:
"When it’s time to stand up against a bully, I ask you to lead. When the board you serve on needs someone who speaks the less popular opinion, I beg you to lead. When you are tempted to go on social media and vindicate yourself, I beg you to lead. When you are tempted to quit, cheat, or take a shortcut, remember you are called by God, and I beg you to lead. When you face rejection, when someone tries to limit you, or the door seems closed, I beg you to lead anyway. Lead in character, integrity, in the strength that God has given you."
I leave you with this phrase: I beg you to lead.”
Her message, translated for the audience by Rev. Marcos Correa, was met with a standing ovation.
Dr. Marty Harris, President of LABI College, presided over the ceremony, stating:
"As we honor the past 99 years, we also envision a future filled with even greater impact. This class represents our mission—raising up Spirit-filled leaders for the Church and the world."
The celebration concluded with a powerful benediction by Board Chair Dr. Donna Sierra and a joyful recessional to the traditional sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance.”
As LABI College approaches its 100th anniversary in 2026, the institution remains a cornerstone of theological and ministerial training for Hispanic students across the nation and the world.
Media Contact: Brian Alvarez Marketing Director balvarez@labi.edu