Long Island

Education

2014 college graduations on LI

<h3>U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Class of 2014</h3> 
NUMBER OF GRADUATES 
225 bachelor's degrees, three master's. Undergraduates received a U.S. Coast Guard merchant mariner license and an officer's commission in the military. 
COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER 
Vice Adm. Michelle J. Howard, the Navy's deputy chief for operations, plans and strategy 
At the ceremony at the academy in Kings Point Saturday, Howard spoke of the global challenges graduates will face as countries vie for control over resources and wars rage in the Middle East. "I see you taking to the waves. You are all comrades in arms, and you are going to serve America's defense and maritime transportation needs in peace and in conflict," Howard said. 
VALEDICTORIAN 
Connor B. McGowan, of Stoneham, Massachusetts, midshipman and regimental commander 
McGowan told graduates the academy gave them the ability to face stress and taught them how to interact with people in the maritime industry and military. "Our life's purposes can seem ill-defined, and in this way we rely on our own anchors and propellers," he said. "The anchor of Kings Point has guided and set the direction of our lives in ways we will never fully see until those opportunities pass. The Kings Point propeller gave us . . . skill sets and technical expertise." 
Andrew Baransky, 21, logistics and intermodal transportation 
"I saw there's a lot more opportunity for advancement in private industry than in the Navy," said the Dix Hills resident, who had considered enlisting in the Navy. "I'm going to try to go to work in the Gulf of Mexico in oil and gas, either on the supply vessels or on the rigs." 
Colleen Danus, 23, engineering and shipyard management 
"I fell in love with engineering," said Danus, of Spencerville, Maryland, who said her next move is to work on a research vessel for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. "I went out to sea and I really liked it . . . We've prepared for more life situations than you realize." 
Patrick Clarke, 22, logistics and intermodal transportation 
"I came to the school because I really wanted to have a good education and I wanted to travel the world," said Clarke, who is from Tampa, Florida. "And serving my country is a good plus." 
Arthur Bailey, 22, marine engineering systems 
"I didn't think I was going to make it, but I pushed through with the help of my friends and now I'm going to go out on a ship and have a good time," said Bailey, of Toms River, New Jersey.

Nassau

LIMERC22

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

liGRAD22

<h3>WEBB INSTITUTE CLASS OF 2014</h3> 
NUMBER OF GRADUATES 
15 with bachelor of science degrees in naval architecture and marine engineering 
COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER 
Richard Goldbach, retired CEO of Metro Machine Corp., Norfolk, Virginia 
Goldbach, a 1958 graduate, received an honorary degree at yesterday's graduation at the Glen Cove campus. He said American workers "have always been the foundation of America's greatness. Yet we as a country have come to treat these workers as if they are expendable. Minimum wages are grossly inadequate to raise a family. The financial benefits produced by American capitalism is progressively being diverted from America's workers to a select handful of America's very senior managers." 
CLASS SPEAKER 
John Carlson, 22, of Smithtown 
"My mom asked me recently why I chose Webb over any other school and what set it apart from the rest," said Carlson, president of the Student Organization. "I told her that Webb has a quirky vibe to it, something I had never found anywhere else and something I would probably never find anywhere else." He compared the commencement to one of his hobbies, diving. "So here we are, all geared up and sitting on the ledge, just waiting. All that's left to do is find our buddies, take a deep breath and take the plunge." 
Samantha Griswold, 22, Bay Shore 
She is moving to Seattle, Washington, where she will be a production engineer. "I am most excited about applying all the information I have learned to real-life situations." 
Henry Jansen, 21, Bayville 
He said he will be a production engineer in a shipyard in Vancouver, British Columbia. "I have been around Long Island most of my life. It's good to get out." 
David Smith, 21, Waterford, Connecticut 
Smith said he will be working for a boat company in Connecticut, doing engineering work on submarines. "I am excited about starting my career, getting out of here and vacation." 
Conor O'Sullivan, 22, Wayne, New Jersey 
He plans to be a naval architect and said he is most excited about "traveling the world."

LIWEBB22

Webb Institute

liWEBB cropped

SUNY Empire State College held a commencement ceremony Saturday for its Long Island students at LIU Post in Brookville. 
NUMBER OF GRADUATES 
14 master's degrees, 16 advanced graduate certificates, 219 bachelor's and 52 associate degrees. 
FACULTY SPEAKER 
James Robinson, professor of historical studies 
Robinson said he learned important lessons from his students, many of whom earned degrees while working full time or raising families. "You have given me a deeper appreciation of life, of courage and of love than before I started this job," he said. 
STUDENT SPEAKERS 
April Lowry, Bay Shore, community and human services 
The mother of two, who works for Hope for Youth Amityville and volunteers at a homeless shelter, spoke about the perseverance it took to earn her bachelor's degree. "There were times when I almost wanted to give up, and I thought nobody cared. It was the faculty who gave me the tough love I needed," she said. 
Vickie Moller, Ronkonkoma, cultural studies 
Moller, a writer, also spoke of the graduates' unconventional paths through life. "We have taken risks and struggled to keep a sense of balance in our lives, sometimes teetering on the precipice of our ability to endure," she said. 
GUEST SPEAKER 
Marian Conway, Lindenhurst, New York Community Bank Foundation executive director 
Conway, who earned bachelor's and master's degrees at SUNY Empire State, told graduates they "raised the bar" in their communities. "You have already made a difference in this world. You demonstrated that the power that is knowledge is available to anyone willing to do the work at any age, at any point in their lives." 
STUDENTS 
Ada Harvey, 57, Glen Cove, bachelor's in community and human services 
"It's amazing and bittersweet, because my mom passed away in October. It took 13 years to get here. My mom said I would make it, and I just wish she was there with me." 
Rose Gietschier, 53, Roosevelt, bachelor's in community and human services 
"It's awesome. I feel a sense of personal achievement. For 35 years, I've been going toward this place. I just wanted to be a role model for my children." 
Stephen Littman, 46, Shirley, bachelor's in history 
"It feels good . . . The deal was I had to graduate college before she did," he said, pointing to his daughter, a junior in college. 
Brian Kuddar, 37, Glen Oaks, Queens, associate's in art 
He said he worked full time installing heating and air conditioning systems while working toward his degree. "It's an accomplishment. I was torn between finishing school and earning a paycheck." 
- WILL JAMES

LIEMPI15

SUNY Empire State College graduation

liEMPI15

St. Joseph's College held its 95th annual commencement for students of its Patchogue campus Tuesday at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale. 
Number of degrees 
938 bachelor's degrees, 238 master's degrees 
Faculty speaker 
Sister Elizabeth Hill, president of St. Joseph's College, is retiring in June after 17 years as president and serving the school for more than three decades. Hill was thanked for her service and awarded an honorary degree as doctor of Arts and Humane Letters. 
"Each one of you needs to figure out why are you here -- the one and only you? The world is in a pretty sorry state right now. . . . It would be easy to be passive and disengaged, but you would only be fooling and cheating yourself because only you -- unique you -- can bring about change. And only if you choose to do something." 
Student speaker, Arts &amp; Sciences valedictorian Kristen Marie Roedel, English major 
"In the age of social media and I-technology, the world accuses the class of 2014's generation of laziness and lacking interpersonal skills. What they fail to realize is that the hours we spend behind screens do not hinder our ability to interact with others. Rather, we are engaged in the world beyond our local communities." 
Students 
Andrea Gosik, 21, East Northport, child study and speech communication 
"All four years of college have led me up to this point, to where I can now go and teach what I have learned to future generations." 
Rosanny Pelaez, 27, Brentwood, child study 
"Oh my, it came so quickly. I did it. I accomplished a big step in my life. I'm extremely happy." 
Katherine Ossa, 22, Ronkonkoma, child study and speech communication 
"It's finally here. [In the future] "I'll be having my own day care and going for my master's in speech pathology." 
Cody Lohsen, 21, Centereach, accounting 
"It flew by. I can't believe it, and I'm very proud of myself and my fellow classmates." 
Philippe Calixte, 22, Amityville, marketing 
"I'm excited and ready for the next step. . . . It's kind of overwhelming, but I'm really looking forward to being in the real world." 
Matthew Skolnick, 24, East Islip, psychology 
"I'm really excited and really proud to be here. I'm thankful for all the people who helped me get to this point. . . . I'm going to Stony Brook University for social work in the fall."

Suffolk

LIJOE28

St. Joseph's College grants 1,176 degrees to LI grads

lijoe28 cropped /mg

Number of graduates 
217: 200 juris doctor degrees, 15 master of laws in U.S. legal studies degrees, 1 master of laws degree; and 1 dual degree: juris doctor and master of social work 
Commencement speaker 
Eric T. Schneiderman, New York State attorney general, speaking at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts in Brookville, said the civil rights movement of the 1960s offers lessons for today's attorneys. He recalled the life of his hero, Charles Hamilton Houston, a black attorney in Washington who devised the strategy that eventually led the U.S. Supreme Court to strike down the racial segregation policy of "separate but equal." Houston's career "teaches us to think for the long haul. Think about the future you want for your children and grandchildren," Schneiderman said. "Just because the U.S. Supreme Court says it's good law doesn't mean you have to agree with them. . . . Work for transformational change." 
Class speaker 
Deborah Lolai, who received a juris doctor's degree and certificate in criminal law, lauded the student body's diversity, saying it would make for better legal representation. "The moment you stop finding joy in what you are doing is the moment you stop helping your clients," she said. "Remember that the moments that hard work seemed too hard are the moments that got us this far, and these moments will take us even further."

LITOUR26

Commencement 2014: Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center

liTOUR26 /mg

CLASS OF 2014 
Five Towns College 
The 40th commencement of Five Towns College was held Saturday at Half Hollow Hills High School East in Dix Hills. 
Number of graduates 
14 master's degrees; 164 bachelor's; 15 associate; one doctorate. 
Commencement speakerU.S. Rep. Steve Israel (D-Huntington) 
Israel commended graduates for pursuing their dreams via career paths in creative fields, and said more of an emphasis should be placed on arts education while students are in grade school. "Thank you for choosing creativity as a career, it is so important," he said. "I worry about this country losing its creative soul . . . We are testing our children to death; we are turning our backs on creativity." 
ValedictorianHarrison Ingemarson, 21, composition/songwriting 
Ingemarson of Scott Township, Pennsylvania, encouraged classmates to not fear the unknown yawning before them, and to instead embrace it, leaning on each other for support. "The only thing that can hold you back is yourself," he said. "There are plenty of trained, experienced professionals out there with whom we're going to have to compete, and we simply cannot afford to let our doubts get in the way." 
StudentsLauren Carr, 20, business management 
Carr of Howard Beach, Queens, who is also class salutatorian, finished her degree in three years and wants to work in publicity for a television network or become a TV producer. "I just finished an internship at CBS and I really loved that, so I'm hoping that will be in my future." 
Jessica Pezdan, 24, vocal performance 
Pezdan of Holbrook was recently hired by a Hicksville entertainment company to sing at weddings and other events. "I'm looking to become a recording artist . . . I'm not going to stop until I do," she said. 
Barrington Steve Hall Jr., 21, audio recording technology 
Hall of Freeport does sound engineering work in Manhattan. He said he hopes the networking opportunities he had at Five Towns will help him in the long run. "The people I met are the biggest part of the education. You meet people going into the same field as you, but different aspects of the field." 
Danielle Palumbo, 21, theater arts 
Palumbo of Staten Island said her next step is auditioning for stage productions and meeting with agents. "I would love to be on stage and sing on stage, and have a life just there," she said. 
-- COMPILED BY CANDICE RUUD

LIFIVE25

Five Towns College commencement

liFIVE25 -- cropped /mg

Stony Brook University held its 54th commencement Friday at Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium in Stony Brook 
Number of degrees 
3,472 bachelor's degrees; 1,546 master's degrees; 469 doctoral degrees; 259 certificates; 129 MDs; 41 DDS 
Faculty speaker 
Dr. Samuel L. Stanley, the university president, told graduates they are receiving degrees from one of the "best universities in the world" and "most prestigious universities in North America." 
Special speaker 
Jerrold L. Stein, Stony Brook's retiring dean of students, said: "Like many of you, this is a bittersweet moment for me. It's so sad to say goodbye, but it's also a time for us to look back to see what we have accomplished." 
Student speaker 
Ali Syed, of East Patchogue, chosen by students and faculty, said: "Stony Brook students will forever be defined by talent and promise, not by financial resources or class status. Now that's a Seawolf!" 
Chantal Douglas, 22, of Brooklyn; engineering 
"This journey has been self-reflective. It allowed me to make great relationships and find out who I am." 
Xin Lu, 25, of Shanghai, China; business 
"It's a long way from China to here. The lifestyle and the studying are so different -- more exciting here." 
Dylan Dreisch, 21, of Staten Island; electrical engineering 
"It's a great day of significance; starting a new chapter and a new life." 
Jashna Benday, 22, of Gujarat, India; biomedical engineering 
"I loved Stony Brook. My four years here were great. I think I learned a lot." 
- BART JONES

LISTON24

Stony Brook University holds 54th commencement

liSTON24

<h3>Nassau Community College number of graduates</h3> 
3,406 associate degrees awarded 
<h3>Keynote speaker</h3> 
Kenneth Saunders, acting president of Nassau Community College 
"The process of developing your formula for success is not over .?.?. That formula for success will continue to evolve through trial — and yes, even through some error. But you should most certainly feel empowered by the knowledge that this formula for success will also be, in a very real sense, the infrastructure of your motivation, just as that motivation will be the powerful and enduring engine for achieving your goals." 
<h3>Valedictorian</h3> 
Elyse Zappia, 20, Malverne, liberal arts 
"Success and sacrifice are, at the very least, two words that truly relate to all of us. We are all here today because we succeeded .?.?. Now is the time for us to embrace life's opportunities in our future endeavors. Do not fear this new chapter. As the great hockey player Wayne Gretzky once said, 'You miss 100 percent of the shots you don't take.' " 
Zappia was joined by Alexis, her mother and fellow graduate, in the procession. Elyse Zappia said she asked her mother to speed her studies so they could graduate together. 
Alexis Zappia, 55, Malverne, applied science 
"She [Elyse] had asked me at the beginning of the year what I could do to graduate with her. I work full time. I said it would be really difficult .?.?. I thought if that's what you want, I'll do it — but it was rough." 
Dan MacDonald, Long Beach, business 
MacDonald left the Marine Corps as a sergeant after six years of service. Already accepted at Dartmouth College, he plans undergraduate and graduate degrees in economics and international affairs. "My aspiration is to be a foreign service officer with the State Department .?.?. I long for the sense of duty." 
Eric Francis, 21, East Meadow, music 
"I'm actually interested in becoming a hip hop rapper myself .?.?. my plan is to do some shows and get some exposure." 
Lauren Sheedy, 22, New Hyde Park, criminal justice 
She has passed the civil service exams for state trooper, police forces and corrections. 
"It's just something I'm interested in — saving people's lives." 
Her top choice would be the New York City Police Department "because you're interacting with a lot of people."

LINCC22

Nassau Community College graduates 3,406

liNCCC21 cropped

Adelphi University held its 118th commencement Monday at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale. 
Number of degrees 
45 doctorates, 1,221 master's degrees, 1,294 bachelor's degrees and 30 associate degrees 
Faculty speaker 
President Robert Scott urged graduates to use their "time, talents and treasures in exceptional ways." He added: "Your path to happiness and meaning is yours to make and to find." 
Keynote speaker 
Jeh Charles Johnson, secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, received an honorary degree. He told graduates he was "a C and D student" in high school, never imagining he one day would be a member of President Barack Obama's Cabinet. "Go forward. Dare to dream and never accept any limitations," Johnson said. 
Student speaker 
Class of 2014 president Heena Arora said, "Whatever the future holds for us, despite how well Adelphi has equipped us, the unexpected will happen. So take that risk, and open yourself up to diverse and rich ideas -- and act." 
Frances Fan, 21, biology 
"I was really fortunate to get an exciting fellowship at the National Institutes of Health studying the aging process," said Fan, of Irvine, California. "I think it would be fascinating to figure it out and see whether we might be able to slow down or reverse the aging process." 
Frank Turano, 21, communications 
"I look forward to seeing my career evolve," said Turano, of Bellmore, who will start a job as a webmaster at CNN. "I feel like what I'll be doing now is so very different to what I'll be doing 10 years from now." 
Silas W. Kelly, 60, master's of social work 
"I came into this profession hoping my story would inspire others," said Kelly, who said he suffered physical and mental abuse as a toddler in the New York City foster care system. When he was 3, he was moved to a loving foster family in Amityville, where he lived until adulthood. "I want people to look into themselves and find that there is something inside them of value, and they can't let the failures in life define them." 
Steven Lander, 22, business administration 
"I plan on staying on Long Island and commuting to work," said Lander, of Levittown, who said he got five job offers and will start a full-time consulting job at IBM. "My father commutes to the city everyday and I've always pictured myself doing that. I really love the Island and what it has to offer." 
Chelsea Wollman, 21, nursing 
"My grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was seven and she was in and out of hospice care. Seeing what they [nurses] did for her and how they made her comfortable during the end of her life was what truly inspired me to go into nursing," said Wollman, of Northford, Connecticut, who hopes to work in the intensive-care unit in a metropolitan area hospital.

LIADEL20

Adelphi University commencement

liADELhs cropped

New York Institute of Technology 
3,114 total graduates 
Bachelor's degrees: 1,797 
Master's degrees: 977 
Doctorate degrees: 276 medical, 35 physical therapy, and other fields of study 
Keynote speaker 
NYIT president Edward Guiliano 
"I've often said that NYIT is an incubator of innovation, but what we really incubate are the innovators themselves." 
Student Orator 
Anthony Ungaro, 29, Brooklyn, bachelor's in interdisciplinary studies 
"Putting your dreams into action is the most important part of finding out who you really are." 
Jelissa Lyons, 25, Walden, master's in electrical engineering 
"Part of the growing up process is using what you learned and putting your hard work toward accomplishing anything." 
Marcus Polycarpe, 26, Westbury, bachelor's in accounting 
"This is a big relief. There were times when I thought this was never going to happen." 
Smita Paraswale, 32, from India, master's in computer science 
"It's because of my family that I am here today. I hope to find a job and implement what I have learned." 
Michael Sforza, 23, Westbury, bachelor's in health science 
"There are no words for it right now. It doesn't feel real."

LINYIT19

NYIT graduates 3,114

LINYIT cropped

Suffolk County Community College 
Number of graduates 
4,189, including those who graduated in January. 
Keynote speaker 
William D. Moore, former board of trustees chairman at Suffolk County Community College, told students: "Going forward, may a life of education take you to places you may have never dreamed of." 
Honor student speaker 
Elizabeth T. Ammenwerth, 40, obtained an associate degree in business administration. 
A mother of two, she dropped out of college 20 years ago after becoming pregnant with her first child. 
"Time will pass on anyway, so just do it," she told the school's largest graduating class. "Don't wait until tomorrow or the day after." 
Stanley Julien, 33, business administration 
"It feels good graduating, knowing that I'm getting another level of education and opening more doors in the future." 
Yuliya Kolomiyets, 24, liberal arts 
"It feels pretty good . . . this is only the beginning." She graduated from the community college in January and formally received her diploma Sunday. She is enrolled in Briarcliffe College as an accounting student. 
Brian Finazzo, 20, liberal arts 
"It's pretty exciting. It's nice to finally be out of there. I may apply to Stony Brook University and get into another program." 
Ray Diaz, 22, business administration 
"It took a little while, a little more than what it was supposed to." He said he may apply to another Long Island university or somewhere upstate. "I want to start my own business and be self-employed."

LISCCC19

Suffolk County Community college graduates 4,189

LISCCC19 cropped

Number of graduates 
2,000; 1,190 undergraduate degrees, 550 graduate degrees, 300 law degrees (The school released only approximate figures.) 
Commencement speaker 
Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), who replaced scheduled speaker Will Allen, founder and chief executive of Growing Power Inc., told graduates: "The fact that you've gotten this great education here at Hofstra, and the fact that you're the first generation to grow up immersed in all of this new technology, means one thing: If there ever was a time to figure out what your dream is, even if it seems hard to reach, now is the time." He added: "And then reach high. . . . Then, reach deep down inside yourself. See what you're made of, see if you can achieve that dream." 
Gary Newman, 22, bachelor's degrees in drama and English creative writing 
"It's kind of a weird mix of emotions -- sad to be leaving a lot of really good friends that I've made here the past four years but also really excited to move on and do better things in the future," Newman said. The Jackson, N.J., native plans to start a production company and stage a show in New York City. 
Chanelle Ford, 21, bachelor of arts in political science, with a minor in psychology 
Ford, a Washington, D.C., native, who will work as a business consultant, said she was "anxious, apprehensive and happy" all at once. "I'm pretty anxious to get started with my life." 
Jesse Shusman, 26, bachelor's degree in liberal arts, with a minor in music 
Shusman, a singer and songwriter from Sudbury, Mass., said; "I feel relieved. I'm excited because I was able to attain this degree, putting in the hard work, and it's going to enable me to pursue my career and passion with a new standard." 
Haley Brennick, 22, bachelor's degree in business administration 
Brennick, of Merrimack, N.H., will earn her Series 6 and Series 63 certifications and work in customer service for Fidelity Investments. "It was difficult but it was really rewarding. I know when I graduate I am going to be ready for a job in the financial sector, which is what I am hoping for." 
Alex Barkley, 21, bachelor's degree in psychology 
"It's a lot of excitement, a lot of nervousness at the same time because it's now taking that full next step after having been here for four years," said Barkley, of upstate Saratoga Springs. "I'm actually attending Stony Brook to get my master's in higher ed administration."

LIHOFS19

Hofstra University graduates 2,000

lihofs19 - CROPPED

SUNY College at Old Westbury 
Number of graduates 
1,069; 987 bachelor's degrees, 82 master's degrees 
Commencement speaker 
Donald J. Meltzer, chief executive of Tensar Corp., an Atlanta-based maker of construction products, recounted the high points of his life, from growing up in Hicksville and earning a bachelor's degree at Old Westbury to turning around several companies. "If overcoming adversity is what life is fundamentally all about," he said, "honesty, integrity and compassion are the way life should be lived." 
Student speaker 
Paraskevas Nicholas Savva, who is Student Government Association president and received a bachelor's degree in politics, economics and law, quoted his late mathematics professor Jong Pil Lee, who used to tell students: "Don't give up, there is more than one way to climb a mountain." Savva, 21, of Lindenhurst, added: "It may have taken drive, dedication and a few Red Bulls, but we can finally say that we did it. We made it to the top of that mountain." 
Carole J. Martin, 51, mental health counseling 
"Being able to help people challenge themselves to grow is a real privilege," said Martin, of East Quogue, who plans to pursue a doctorate degree. 
Ashlee Harwood, 22, media and communications 
The Bronx resident said she hopes to work in public relations in the fashion industry: "My next step in life is to continue to make my family proud and myself proud." 
Cassandra Castma, 23, psychology 
"I like to pick the minds of people," said Castma, of Westbury, who plans to study nursing at Stony Brook University. "I want to become a mental health nurse practitioner so that I can help people and better myself." 
Joseph Paiva, 22, adolescence education 
"I want to help students find the skills they will need for the future," said Pavia, of Hicksville, who wants to be a history teacher. 
Scott Beck, 34, taxation 
"I've been preparing my own taxes for years," said Beck, of Sayville. "I just realized this would be a good path for me, I find taxation very interesting." 
- Compiled by James T. Madore

LIWEST19

SUNY College at Old Westbury graduates 1,069

liWEST19 cropped

Number of graduates 
1,529; 1,300 bachelor's degrees; 217 associate degrees, 12 certificates 
Keynote speaker 
Randi Shubin Dresner, president and CEO of Island Harvest, a Long Island hunger relief organization, told graduates to become passionate about a cause. "Don't be afraid of change, of falling or failing, or even taking a few bad steps. Just make sure you keep moving forward as you hit these bumps in the road," she said. 
Guest speaker 
Sen. Charles Schumer told graduates to "go for it. . . . sometimes you'll make the wrong choice but if my experience is any indication, you'll pick yourself up, dust yourself off and move forward. But if you make the right choice, with a lot of hard work, a little luck, some prayer, your life will be enriched forever." 
Student speaker 
Class of 2014 valedictorian Lauren Bellissimo, 22, of Miller Place; bachelor's in applied psychology. 
"The most influential and useful advice I've been given may be simple in words but profound in thought," she said. ". . . In life, all you really have to do is show up, do your best and have confidence in yourself." 
 Drew Griffiths, 27, bachelor's in aviation administration 
"It's kind of surreal. It really hasn't hit me. . . . It's something I've been wanting to do, and I'm finally doing it," he said. Griffiths, of Modena, New York, is an Air National Guard veteran and licensed pilot. He plans to apply to become an Air Force pilot. 
Nasir Francis, 22, bachelor's in aviation administration 
"To graduate college in 3½ years, I feel is a major accomplishment . . . ," he said, crediting his mother and family "who supported me, who invested in me." The Bronx resident plans to apply for a job in airport management and start a mobile personal training business. 
Karema Nugent 29, bachelor's in science, technology and society 
"It's been a long journey for me. I'm 29 years old and I'm just now getting my bachelor's. . . . I feel like I'm accomplishing something big," the Amityville native said. She spent two years at York College in Queens and left to work full time. She plans to seek a master's in marriage and family therapy at Hofstra University. 
Gurbir Singh, 22, bachelor's in bioscience 
"I made it this far; it's just the start for me," said Singh, of Valley Stream, who plans to apply to medical school. "It's been amazing. . . . There's been some sleepless nights . . . but that's what you have to do. You have to put in the effort."

LIFARM18

Farmingdale State College graduates 1,529

lifarm18

Briarcliffe College, with campuses in Bethpage and Patchogue, held its commencement Saturday at Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood. 
Number of Graduates 
650 bachelor's and associate's degrees 
Faculty Speaker 
President George Santiago Jr. urged graduates to increase "civility toward each other" and "return our communities to a more caring and gentle role." He told graduates, "Promise me that when you leave here today, you will strive to be a better human being in the ways that you treat each other and in the ways you treat those who are less blessed." 
Student Speakers 
Valedictorian Nancy Bowe, who received her bachelor's after raising three sons and working at a title insurance company, told fellow graduates to not let obstacles stop them. "I am looking forward to planning my new graphic design career when most of my peers are looking forward to retiring," she said. "Higher education is for everyone at every age." 
Guest Speaker 
Diane Auer Jones, a molecular biologist who serves as senior vice president of Career Education Corp., an educational services company, told graduates, "Be bold in defining what a good life means to you. Live life on your own terms, and resist the urge to be swayed by society's expectations." 
Emilka Caraballo, 20, of Coram, bachelor's in accounting 
Caraballo said she's going to pursue a master's in accounting after she takes time off from school to raise her 2-year-old daughter. "Since high school, I've been taking accounting classes. I've always been good in math, so I think it's my perfect field." 
Manny Torres, 22, of Mastic, bachelor's in management 
Torres said he wants to pursue a career in music promotion. "I want to get myself in order, take a little break, then get my master's, maybe start a business. I'm excited." 
Omaira Ferreira, 24, of College Point, Queens, bachelor's in graphic design 
"I work for a company now, so I hope to do graphic design for them and maybe freelance on the side." 
Timothy Delwey, 20, of Huntington, associate's in graphic design 
"I took the police test, so I hope to become a cop. Since I was a little kid, I wanted to be a cop. I also liked graphic design, so it seemed like a good backup." 
Mildred Atkinson, 47, of St. Albans, Queens, associate's in criminal justice 
"I'm going to extend for my bachelor's. I'm looking to go into the court system. My children are older now, so I wanted to do me. They're proud of me. It feels good." 
Armani West, 21, of East New York, Brooklyn, associate's in graphic design 
"I plan on helping little businesses" with web design, he said. "Who knows, maybe I'll come across a big business. Taking it one day at a time." 
- WILL JAMES

LIBRIA18

Briarcliffe College commencement

liBRIA cropped/lt

Molloy College held its 55th commencement last nightat Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. 
Number of graduates 
1,156 
Number of degrees 
783 bachelor's; 323 master's; 1 doctorate; 37 associates; 12 certifications 
Faculty speaker 
President Drew Bogner told graduates they are being called upon to act as "agents of transformation," saying they must "leave the world a better place for having been here." 
Guest speaker 
John D. Cameron, chairman of the Long Island Regional Planning Council and son of a Scottish immigrant school bus driver, told students the world is a competitive place -- hard work and perseverance will be key. "Be a beacon of light in a world that too often appears dark. It will not be easy; it will often be unpopular. But it will be right." 
Student speaker 
Class of 2014 Valedictorian Ryan Lane, 21, of Levittown; biology and special adolescent education. "I've always felt I had good teachers," he said. "I'm most excited about the chance to inspire students to love learning." 
Linwood Pitt, 25, of North Amityville; master's in criminal justice 
Pitt wants to work in law enforcement. "I admire their work, the sacrifices they make daily. I want to be part of that family." He doesn't know where his career will start, saying, "I will work wherever I can get my foot in the door." 
Gina Kearney, 47, of Baldwin; PhD in nursing 
"I've always been passionate about nursing, with the ultimate goal of returning to the classroom as a teacher," said Kearney, who earned Molloy's first PhD. Both of her parents, now deceased, were ill when she was a child; her mother, Dolores Plowright, was diagnosed with breast cancer when Kearney was 3. "This is dedicated to her," Kearney said of her degree. 
Ryan Welch, 31, of Ronkonkoma; master's in education 
He looks forward to working with special needs children. "They keep you honest," he said, adding that such students will make him a better teacher, encouraging him to stay true to the craft. He hopes to foster in his students "the idea that they have the ability to achieve anything." 
- JO NAPOLITANO

LIMOLL17

Molloy College commencement

ligrad cropped/lt

LIU Post's 56th annual commencement was held Friday under a tent on the Great Lawn on the school's Brookville campus. The ceremony also included students from LIU Brentwood and LIU Riverhead. 
Number of graduates 
1,060 bachelor's, 1,194 master's, 42 doctoral degrees 
Faculty speaker 
Kimberly Cline, who delivered her first commencement speech as the new president of Long Island University, told graduates to stay in touch and create a legacy that makes the university proud. "Education is a never-ending journey. There are no finish lines, only opportunities to learn, to grow and to gain wisdom." 
Student speaker 
Petter Holmsen, valedictorian and a film major from Norway, recognized the shared challenges he and other graduates face as they leave college. "I am scared. I am terrified. I don't know what is waiting for me. And that, I think, is what we all have in common." 
Guest speaker 
Sarabeth Levine, renowned pastry chef and founder of Sarabeth's restaurants and preserves, earned her bachelor's degree in sociology from LIU Post in 1964. She spoke about the support she got from family and friends as she became an entrepreneur. "None of us is self-made," she said. 
Students 
Maria Varricchio, 24, of Massapequa; M.A. in literacy 
"I'd like to be an elementary school teacher or reading specialist," she said. "I struggled with reading when I was younger so I want to help others in this way." 
Anthony Pastecchi, 21, of Hicksville; B.S. in business management 
"It feels great to get to this point and graduate," he said. "I'm going into publishing, and I've been working at a trade magazine part time while going to school. They offered me a full-time job so I'm very happy. I start next week -- can't waste any time." 
Kyle Hardy, 23, of Matawan, N.J.; B.S. in criminal justice 
"I plan to take the New Jersey state trooper test this summer and we'll see," he said. "I have a lot of family and friends in law enforcement so I grew up always wanting to protect and serve my community." 
Holly Maddock, 22, of Medford; B.F.A. in dance studies 
"I'm going to move into the city and audition for some dance companies," she said. "I'm not doing it for fame or anything. I just love to create movement. Ten years from now, I'd love to be a choreographer for a contemporary ballet company."

LIPOST10

LIU Post holds commencement ceremony in Brookville

liLIU10 cropped/lt

Dowling College held its 52nd commencement Wednesday on the lawn of Golden Lion's Field at its Brookhaven campus in Shirley.
Number of degrees
32 doctorates, 421 master's degrees and 524 bachelor's degrees
Faculty speaker
President Norman R. Smith told graduates the day was about the beginning of their journey, not the end. "You are now among the top 20 to 25 percent of people in your generation who can call themselves college graduates. That's something no one can ever take away from you."
Guest speaker
Brookhaven Town Supervisor Edward P. Romaine, who received an honorary degree, offered career advice. "Choose what you love most, and you will have a life of enjoyment," he said. "Worry less about money and more about satisfaction."
Student speaker
Class of 2014 Valedictorian Kerry M. Anderson said her time at Dowling allowed her to "create herself," adding: "Somewhere within us there is a new version of ourselves we've created here."
Lasheca Lewis, 21, of Wyandanch; political science
"Coming from a place where just getting a high school diploma is the biggest thing, to graduate with a college degree is astonishing for me," said Lewis, who is applying to law school. "This won't be my last graduation ceremony."
Brian Miller, 21, of Smithtown; physical education
"I had such a learning curve as a student and as an individual. I was 17 when I came here, and I feel like I've grown so much since then."
Korey Falconi, 24, art education and Matt Falconi, 21, graphic design
"We met freshman year, and we got married last month," she said. 
"We were not expecting to get married in college, but it is really the beginning of a new chapter in our lives," he said.
Nick Chieco, 21, of North Arlington, N.J.; aviation
"I got a full-time job in airport operations at Teterboro Airport," he said. "I eventually want to fly and be an airline pilot, but the management side is most optimistic for me."
- CANDICE FERRETTE

LIDOWL15

Dowling College commencement

liDOWL/lt

CLASS OF 2014: New York College of Health Professions 
Number of graduates 230; 170 associate degrees, 50 bachelor/master joint degrees, 10 certificates 
Commencement speaker Musician George McKenzie Phillips Jr. spoke about performing with family members in the R&amp;B group Starpoint and writing songs for performers such as Milli Vanilli. He composed a song for the college, "New York College, Where You Get the Knowledge," which debuted Sunday. 
"You all are now in a unique position, with the education and skills, to have the opportunity to combine the utilization of ancient interventions of healing with some of the most exciting technology of today . . . as you go on to help people make significant changes in their lives that will have great impact on their wellness, the wellness of their families and the wellness of the people in the world community," said Phillips, who works as a behavioral health administrator in Maryland. 
From the graduates: 
Angus Towse, 43, oriental medicine 
"This is so much more rewarding on a personal level than making things for people who already have too many things," said Towse, of Sea Cliff, who worked as a carpenter before becoming a massage therapist. "I'm going to expand my practice, to offer more services to people." 
Demi Braddy, 21, massage therapy 
"My passion is to make people feel better . . . I already have a [massage] table in my basement and I plan on working for myself," said Braddy, a postal worker from Laurelton. 
Steven Fisher, 35, massage therapy 
"Massage therapy brings wellness to the client, and it's a field that goes hand in hand with being a personal trainer, which was what I was doing before going to school," said Fisher, of Rosedale. 
Giuseppe Palazzolo, 22, massage therapy 
"Working in a pharmacy led me to want to study alternative medicine," said Palazzolo, of Staten Island. "I just thought there has to be a better way to help people." He said he hopes to work in a detox center in Costa Rica. 
Casey Ottens, 24, acupuncture 
"I love to see people smile, to have them tell me I've made them feel better," said Ottens, of upstate Rhinebeck, who works as a massage therapist at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Manhattan. She earned her associate degree in massage therapy from the college in 2010.

LIGRAD05

Help create health and wellness, grads urged

liGRAD05 - cropped/lt

Newsday

Most Popular

Latest videos

Education video slot

NewsdayTV's Macy Egeland speaks to actor Gary Sinise about the Wantagh Union Free School District partnering with his foundation to raise money for field trips to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, as well as a commemorative 9/11 statue in front of Wantagh High School.

Actor Gary Sinise partners with LI district on 9/11 education

The case illustrates how costly and time consuming it can be for districts to terminate tenured educators under state law. Newsday investigative Associate Editor Paul LaRocco has more.

'This is strictly a disciplinary case'

Long Island's Head Start programs are facing financial headwinds. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports.

'Not knowing how important this program is'

A 2023 Farmingdale High School crash led to New York mandating seat belts in charter buses, but enforcement remains challenging. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

'This law is difficult to enforce'

Sign up for The Classroom newsletter

Education Newsletter Widget

A new state mandate, part of a push to reform high school graduation standards, requires students to learn about personal finance.

LI schools must teach budgeting and other money management skills

Education Article Bottom Module

New Hyde Park student recognized for a project that helps pedestrians cross the street.

New principals in 5 LI districts; local student named winner in 3M competition

Emiliano Geoninatti, who works in the Three Village district, was honored for his passion in the classroom and impact on his students.

LI educator named NYS Teacher of the Year

A tough entry-level job market is pushing some parents to take measures such as setting up job posting alerts and hiring job coaches and resume writers.

LinkedIn coaches, resume experts: How some LI parents are helping Gen Z find a job

Starting in the 2027-28 school year, New York will no longer require a Regents diploma to graduate high school.

State gets green light to start phasing out Regents HS graduation requirement

Wesely joined Roslyn High School in 1989, developing the school's AP Psychology class in the early 1990s.

This Roslyn teacher has helped more than 80 students become Regeneron scholars

Housing in Suffolk, smell of marijuana, cutting school district costs

Education Video Playlist

There is a new push to look into the effect of screen time in classrooms. NewsdayTV's Shari Einhorn spoke to Newsday state reporter Keshia Clukey and other experts on the topic.

'I don't advocate for one blanket policy'

Two months into the state's "bell-to-bell" ban on electronic devices in schools, some districts are reporting positive changes in the classroom. NewsdayTV's Andrew Ehinger reports.

'Students are much more talkative to one another'

NewsdayTV's Jasmine Anderson and Newsday education reporter Dandan Zou talk to Long Island school administrators about how the school cellphone ban is going so far.

'Kids are outside. They're playing. They're laughing together.'

Former Holy Trinity lineman Lance Swift spoke with Newsday high school sports reporter Jared Valluzzi after the Titans suspended their football program.

'Honestly, I was hurt'

The best friends, who are known at South Side High School as the "Dynamic Duo," are among Newsday's 2026 Extraordinary Seniors.

'They are both perfection in their own right, but together they are extraordinary'

Nick Cannon, host of the Wild 'N Out Live show at Barclays Center, visited Roosevelt High School on Friday.

'Excited about entertainment'

12-year-old Cesar Albarracin Guncay, a 6th grader in Sag Harbor, died during a rafting field trip in the Poconos after the raft overturned in the river.

'Cesar was a cherished member of our school family'

Sara Lopez Garcia recorded an address to her class from her native Colombia. NewsdayTV's Andrew Ehinger reports.

'Never underestimate your strength'

Chaminade twins John and Joseph Gomes were named valedictorian and salutatorian, a first for the all-boys Catholic school in Mineloa.

Twins make val and sal history

With college decision time looming, Newsday has some tips for what to keep in mind while visiting Long Island campuses. NewsdayTV's Jamie Stuart reports.

Take notes, taste the food and more

Jesse Findling, of Massapequa Park, made a stop at his alma mater on Monday. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

'He just followed his dream'

A federal judge approved an agreement this week to phase out the Saving on a Valuable Education, or SAVE, Plan. The move could affect millions of borrowers. Newsday's experts break it down.

'A lot of uncertainty'

NEWSDAY TV SHORTS

Vertical videos

Supporters of "through-running" would like to see LIRR trains adding stops beyond Long Island. NewsdayTV's Alfonso Castillo reports.

What is through-running and will it work at Penn Station?

Residents on Tuesday urged Huntington officials not to approve a plan to build an $85 million four-story, mixed-use luxury residential community in Melville. NewsdayTV's Andrew Ehinger reports.

Residents oppose Melville development proposal

Ken 'Batman' Buffa heads to 4th World Comics in Smithtown.

LI Works: The Dark Ken sells comic books

NewsdayTV's Andi Berlin visits No Good Burger Joint in Baldwin.

Newsday's Top 50 restaurants: A burger joint joins the list

New York State is mailing out energy rebate checks between $100 and $200 to taxpayers who qualitify. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports.

'A check is always nice. A little more would be nicer.'

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed checks out a beloved local staple where visitors near and far gather to grab tomatoes for their Sunday sauce.

Out East: Lenny Bruno Farms

Long Island is the strongest seller's market in the country as limited inventory drives up home prices, according to a new study. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports.

LI bucking the national trend

As New York picked up the pieces and began to rebuild after 9/11, Newsday's photographers were there. NewsdayTV's Macy Egeland has more.

Picture This: When New York and America rose from 9/11

Steel beams from the World Trade Center have become memorials to those who were lost in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and can now be found scattered throughout Long Island. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

'It's a beautiful testament'

NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa checks out this viral social media hit that has customers flocking to Chefs Corner in Mineola.

Trendy Bites: Lemon curd pancakes in Mineola 

Long Island Trending Bar

Newsday is highlighting the passionate, engaging and innovative educators of Long Island with its Teacher Spotlight feature.

Teacher Spotlight

High School Sports

Residents in LI's more than 120 school districts weighed in on board candidates, budgets and propositions. See how your district voted. For additional information, read our article here.

2026 School Vote

App Nativo Ad Unit Slot

Education - megaslot

See the latest news from Long Island school districts, including local rankings, school board developments, safety updates and more.

Most Popular

Latest videos

Stay logged in.