Photo Essay: UH Hilo 2017 Fall Commencement

The extraordinary talent, diversity, and inspiration of these fine scholars are beautifully captured in this photo essay of fall commencement by Bob Douglas.

Two graduates.
Two graduates after commencement ceremonies.

PahuUniversity of Hawaiʻi at Hilo held its 2017 Fall Commencement on Dec. 16. Candidates petitioned for degrees and/or certificates from the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resource Management (17); College of Arts and Sciences (255); College of Business and Economics (33); College of Pharmacy (1); Ka Haka ʻUla O Keʻelikōlani College of Hawaiian Language (9); and also various post-graduate credentials (14). Keynote speaker was Master Navigator Kālepa Baybayan and student speaker was communication major Anne Rivera.

Photos by Bob Douglas, click to enlarge.

Pre-Ceremonies and Procession

Three candidates stand together outside the venue before the opening procession.
Three candidates before the opening procession.

Opening Ceremonies, Introductions, Awards and Speakers

Chancellor hands Kolin Kettleson his award.
Kolin Kettleson, director of Auxiliary Services, received the Chancellor’s Special Recognition Award for his years of service to the UH Hilo community.

Conferring of Baccalaureate Degrees

Three candidates.

Mortarboard Communications

Message on Mortarboard

Conferring of Graduate Degrees

Candidate with hood.
Graduate degree candidate with hood.

Hooded candidates stand at their seats.

Conferring of Doctoral Degree

Doctoral degree candidate on dais.
Doctoral degree in pharmacy is conferred.

Closing Ceremonies

Exit procession.
Exit procession to meet with family and friends.

With Family and Friends

Graduate with family.
Graduate with family.

Graduate with lei.


About the photographer: Bob Douglas is a local artist, photographer, and sometimes part-time student who volunteers his photography skills to the Office of the Chancellor and UH Hilo Stories.

Photos may be freely shared in any print or electronic media.

-UH Hilo Stories

Share this story