General

Forty-third Commencement Ceremony

by Rebecca Stertzbach, Executive Assistant on May 14, 2026

“His family. His service. His intellect. His vast education. His experience.”

These qualities all define Dr. Emmanuel C. Malone. IBCS was thrilled to grant Pastor Malone a Doctor of Divinity for his many years of faithful service, both here at the college and quite literally around the world. “He has influenced many young men who are pastoring successfully and very well,” says Dr. Brett Williams, guest speaker from Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Plymouth, Minnesota. “He has shown the faithfulness that is required. He has left his mark; he will still leave his mark.” Also honoring Dr. Malone was Dr. Ralph Warren, long-time personal and ministry friend. Dr. Warren, of Lake County Baptist Church in Waukegan, Illinois, regaled the guests with fond memories and a challenging testimony of Dr. Malone's many years of service.

President Pastor Nathan Mestler said, “We honor Pastor Malone as someone who embodies one of our core values: Serve Faithfully.”

Watch the IBCS Administration honor Dr. Emmanuel Malone.

In addition to honoring Dr. Malone, IBCS granted 20 diplomas and certificates this year: two Certificates of Biblical Studies, six Bachelors of Arts in Bible and Christian Service, three Bachelors of Arts in Bible and Teacher Education, two Masters of Christian Education, six Masters of Arts in Ministry, and one Doctor of Ministry.

As the graduates each receive their hood and diploma, their testimony of God’s grace and leading throughout their years at IBCS plays for the congregation. A record-breaking 300 guests attended the ceremony, with additional family members and friends attending via livestream technologies.

Click on each graduate’s picture below to hear their testimony. Click here for the entire playlist.

We look forward to these graduates making a difference in the West and around the world!

Miguel Acedo
Organizational Leadership