Faculty, students, trustees, and friends of the Institute of Buddhist Studies (IBS) gathered on May 19 to celebrate the graduating class of 2023 at the Jodo Shinshu Center (JSC) in Berkeley, California.
The event was also a chance to honor Dr. Richard Payne, who is retiring in June, and Rev. Dr. Daijaku Kinst, who is stepping down as faculty member. Dean Scott Mitchell presented both with plaques, awarding each with the title of Professor Emeritus.
Dr. Payne also delivered the commencement address on a reflection on impermanence, the nature of being, and the importance of academic study.
Dean Mitchell acknowledged the 2023 graduates, and conferred degrees and certificates to the following students:
2023 Degree Graduates
Nisha Rajani Shah — Master of Divinity
Austin Kogen Keith — GTU Master of Arts
Kaitlyn Kongo Mascher-Mace — Master of Divinity
Ko'e Umezu — Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies
2023 Certificates
James William Farewell — Soto Zen Buddhist Studies Certificate
Michael Jones — Shin Buddhist Studies Certificate
Wayne Anthony Taylor — Certificate in Buddhist Studies
Special Recognition was given to William M.H Shih for the successful completion of the Dharma Drum Institute of Liberal Arts (DILA)/Exchange program.
Conferral of degrees was followed by a reception. Dr. Payne, Rev. Dr. Kinst and graduates received Hawaiian leis, and attendees gathered in the lobby for sushi and cake.
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