President Stephens Welcomes New FPU Students with “Joyous Anticipation”

Fresno Pacific University President André Stephens, Ph.D., addressed students, faculty and staff August 27, 2025, at the Fall Convocation in the Special Events Center on FPU’s main campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno. Stephens reminded incoming students of the transformational journey ahead of them. He likened convocation and commencement to “bookends” of their academic experience, moments when faculty surround students in support at both the beginning and the end of their time at FPU. “The education you’ll receive here is more than just academic,” Stephens said. “It is holistic, and it is transformational.” He concluded his remarks with a challenge and a charge, saying, “Let us step into this year with joyful anticipation, dwelling in God’s word, strengthened in community and confident in his faithfulness.” (FPU photo by Bradley Kennedy)