Westcliff University

We’re honored to welcome Representative Dave Min as a featured speaker for Westcliff University’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony.

Before serving California’s 47th Congressional District, Representative Min built a distinguished career spanning higher education, law, public service, and economic policy. As a professor at UC Irvine and former enforcement attorney with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, he dedicated his work to advancing knowledge, accountability, and opportunity.

His journey, from the son of Korean immigrants and a product of California’s public education system to a respected educator, attorney, and public servant, reflects many of the values that define the Westcliff experience: perseverance, lifelong learning, and a commitment to serving others.

As our graduates prepare to begin the next chapter of their own journeys, we look forward to the perspective and inspiration he will share with the Class of 2026.

Read more: https://www.westcliff.edu/resources/wu-news/others/representative-dave-min-to-address-westcliff-universitys-class-of-2026/

NATIONAL CHAMPIONS. 🌊🏆💙

For the first time in program history, Westcliff Surf has brought home the NSSA National Championship!

After years of climbing the ranks, the Warriors defeated nine-time national champion Point Loma Nazarene University at Salt Creek in Dana Point to secure the title and make collegiate surfing history.

From pioneering surfing scholarships to building one of the most respected programs in the country, this moment is the result of years of hard work, belief, and dedication from our student-athletes, coaches, alumni, families, and supporters.
A huge congratulations to Head Coach Lucas Taub and the entire team for an unforgettable season and a championship that will forever be part of Westcliff history.
The climb was worth it. 🌊💙

Read the full story: https://www.westcliff.edu/resources/wu-news/athletics/westcliff-surf-wins-first-nssa-national-championship-in-program-history/

Every commencement speaker brings a unique perspective. This year, our graduates will hear from someone who helps shape the standards of higher education itself.

Westcliff University is honored to welcome Maria Toyoda, President and CEO of the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), as our 2026 Commencement Speaker.

With a distinguished career spanning higher education leadership, academic excellence, and institutional innovation, Maria has dedicated her work to ensuring that universities prepare students not only for graduation, but for meaningful impact in their careers and communities.

As the Class of 2026 prepares to cross the stage, they will hear from a leader who understands the power of education to transform lives and create opportunity.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone together on June 27.

Read more: https://www.westcliff.edu/resources/wu-news/others/meet-your-2026-commencement-speaker-maria-toyoda/

Nursing isn't learned from a textbook alone.

The strongest nursing education happens when students can apply what they're learning in realistic environments, build confidence through practice, and develop the clinical judgment needed to care for patients when it matters most.

At Westcliff University’s College of Nursing, hands-on learning starts early through high-fidelity simulation labs, open skills labs, faculty mentorship, and clinical experiences designed to prepare students for the realities of healthcare. Whether pursuing a BSN or Entry-Level MSN, students gain opportunities to practice, learn, and grow in an environment built around real-world readiness.

Discover how hands-on training helps future nurses develop the skills, confidence, and compassion needed to succeed in clinical practice.

Read more: https://www.westcliff.edu/resources/wu-news/college-of-nursing/hands-on-nursing-training-westcliff-university/

Connections, collaboration, and community were on full display during this past weekend's Professional Weekend at our Miami campus.

Students had the opportunity to engage with faculty, strengthen their professional networks, and connect with peers from across their programs. We were also excited to officially welcome Ahmed Abdalla, DBA student, as a Student Ambassador for the Miami campus, where he spent the weekend connecting with fellow students and helping foster the vibrant Westcliff community.

Additionally, College of Technology & Engineering students had the opportunity to meet with COTE Program Chair Dr. Irvin Heard, gaining valuable insights and building meaningful connections beyond the virtual classroom.

Thank you to everyone who helped make another successful Pro Weekend experience possible.

From the classroom to the community. 🩺🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

Westcliff University’s ELM 1 cohort recently volunteered at the medical tent during the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in San Diego, putting their skills, compassion and teamwork into action while supporting runners throughout the event.

Experiences like these give our future nurses valuable hands-on exposure while reinforcing the heart of the profession: caring for people when they need it most.
Thank you to our students for representing Westcliff’s College of Nursing with professionalism, dedication and service. 💙

Thinking about becoming a nurse in California? 🩺

The journey starts before nursing school ever begins. From prerequisites and applications to clinical training and the NCLEX, there are a lot of important steps along the way.
Our latest blog breaks down what future nurses need to know before getting started and how to build a clear path toward a rewarding career in healthcare.