Steve Smith, Dean of the College of Natural Resources and Sciences, opened the special award ceremony, held privately on campus. Acting President and Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Peg Blake presided. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Robert Snyder presented the parents with their son’s mounted diploma.
Snyder addressed the parents, stating: “Upon the recommendation of the faculty of the College of Natural Resources and Sciences and the Academic Senate of Humboldt State University, it is my privilege to present posthumously the degree of Bachelor of Science, with majors in Chemistry and Biology, to Jian Kang, who fulfilled the requirements prescribed by the California State University Board of Trustees.”
Faculty eulogized Kang for his academic rigor, scholarship, enthusiasm and heavy course loads.
Kang's father spoke, thanking everyone who had collaborated with his son during his time at HSU and the many involved in the search and rescue efforts following Kang’s drowning June 19. He said Kang had been very happy in the redwoods, coming to love HSU, the community and the region’s natural beauty. His son had hoped to teach some day at Humboldt State.
Student friends, staff and faculty who worked closely with Kang during his two years on campus paid private tribute to him in colloquies with his parents after the ceremony.
Kang, 21, drowned at a birthday party while wading in the Trinity River across from Tish Tang Creek Campground. The body was recovered June 29.