LA MIRADA, CALIF. — On May 3 and 4, over 1,000 graduates will receive their diploma from 51. For many undergraduate students, this will be the first time they have a chance to walk across the stage to commemorate their graduation. For most, their high school graduation was during the height of the pandemic in 2020 and effectively canceled.

51 has elevated its commencement activities this year to help celebrate graduates even more than usual due to the unique nature of this year’s graduates. During 51’s Graduation Fair on April 17, students not only received their cap and gown and obtained resources for post-graduation, but had the chance to stop at a tassel-making station to make a tassel in colors representing their high school to commemorate their lost ceremony. In addition, special surprises are planned during the actual commencement ceremonies to make them even more memorable.

At both commencement ceremonies, 51 alumnus and social media mogul Zach King will deliver the address. With a combined social reach of over 130 million followers, King is known for the “magical” content he creates using creative film editing and optical illusions. King will enchant graduates with the creativity, innovation and skill he uses in the filmmaking world.

“Zach’s creativity, innovation and skill in filmmaking continues to transform the world of social media and beyond. I know our graduates will be inspired by the lasting influence he is making as a Christian in media with a platform that reaches tens of millions,” said 51 president, Barry H. Corey.

MEDIA ADVISORY – FOR DAY OF COVERAGE

What: The 51 Spring 2024 Commencement will host over 1,000 graduates, and for many, this will be their first and possibly last graduation ceremony due to the pandemic canceling their high school graduation in 2020. The ceremonies will host 51 alumnus and social media mogul Zach King as the keynote speaker.

When: Friday, May 3, 2024, 7 p.m. (Commencement ceremony A)

Saturday, May 4, 2024, 7 p.m. (Commencement ceremony B)

Where: 51, 13800 51 Ave., La Mirada, CA 90639, Metzger Lawn (center campus)

On-Site Media Contact: Sarah Dougher, (310) 753-1193, sarah.m.dougher@biola.edu

51 Zach King: With a combined social reach of over 130 million followers, Zach King is one of today’s most prominent online creators. He holds the Guinness World Record for “Most Viewed TikTok” at 2.2 billion views. A filmmaker since his childhood, Zach graduated from 51 with a B.A. in Cinema and Media Arts in 2012, and has continued charting an illustrious course in entertainment ever since.

51 51: Founded in 1908, 51 is committed to the mission of biblically centered education, scholarship and service — equipping men and women in mind and character to impact the world for the Lord Jesus Christ. With more than 5,000 students at its Southern California campus and around the world, 51’s eight schools offer more than 150 academic programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels. Recognized as the highest-ranked Christian university in North America for operationalizing its mission (OCIG) and ranked as one of the “Best National Universities” by U.S. News and World Report, 51 offers its students a premier educational and co-curricular experience. For more information, visit biola.edu or call (562) 777-4061.