SEU Hosts 122nd Commencement in Outdoor Ceremony

Morristown, N.J. (May 23, 2023) – Over 2000 graduates, faculty, alumni, honorees, and family members united on the front lawn of Saint Elizabeth University to celebrate nearly 300 graduate and undergraduate students on May 17th, 2024. This year's commencement at Saint Elizabeth University marks the 122nd Commencement and the second one to be held on campus in six years, the previous one being in 2023.

SEU President Gary B. Crosby, Ph.D., commenced the ceremony by expressing heartfelt appreciation and acknowledging the remarkable accomplishments of the 118 graduate and 159 undergraduate students, with 52 individuals earning academic honors.

“We commence this ceremony today with a heart full of gratitude for all that we have received and for the immense effort we have put in to achieve not only for ourselves but also for others,” expressed Crosby. “This accomplishment is a result of the tireless dedication of our loyal supporters.”

Crosby also shared that Saint Elizabeth University was founded in 1899 by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth following an important mission: to provide those with the greatest need access to higher education.

“We owe our existence today to the unwavering love, care, and commitment of the Sisters, who have dedicated their lives to improving the quality of one's life through education,” Crosby added.

In an address to the graduates, SEU Board of Trustees Chair Mike McGovern reflected on the achievements of the past academic year, specifically noting:

• Ranking in the US News and World Report Top 100 of the best regional universities in the northern United States for the first time;

• Being recognized by the US Department of Education with a $3 million grant to support the success of Hispanic and low-income students, acknowledging the diversity of the campus community and student population;

• Achieving an impressive 80% retention rate for first-time, first-year students, marking an 11% increase since Fall 2021, significantly enhancing students' chances of earning a degree;

• Our online Criminal Justice graduate program being  ranked as the number one program of its kind in the state of New Jersey;

• Students joining the Sisters of Charity in an annual effort to help feed those impacted by food insecurity in Paterson by making and distributing over 500 sandwiches at the Father English Center, highlighting the university's commitment to its mission of service to others.

“All these achievements and many more affirm that the SEU faculty and staff have wholeheartedly dedicated themselves to providing you with an exceptional undergraduate and graduate educational journey,” McGovern added. “As you complete your program of study here, know that you are well-prepared to think critically, act ethically, and make a positive impact in your communities and the world at large.”

Commencement speaker Margaret Roman, Ph.D., a cherished member of the Saint Elizabeth University faculty for over 34 years and an alumna of the Class of 1972, shared reflections on her experience as a first-generation student at the University and her journey as a faculty member.

In her address, Roman shared an encouraging message to students, “On this remarkable day, you stand at the threshold, a moment of transition between your life here and the boundless opportunities that await you—a world brimming with possibility.”

Roman also charged the audience to “go forth with all that this great institution has taught you, conducting your life's work with exceptional skill, integrity, and a commitment to social responsibility, justice, diversity, and sustainability. Embrace the mission and values, and strive towards excellence in all that you do."

Brad Mahoney, ‘24, Student Government Association President who received his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Business, spoke on behalf of students.

“To start, I’d like to thank every one of you who are here today, but personally I want to thank my brother Chad for always pushing me to be the best version of myself. I’d also like to thank my mom and dad for helping me become the person I am today.” shares Mahoney. “I want to clarify that I didn't start this speech to simply give shout-outs. Instead, I mentioned family, friends, mentors, and the community that guided and shaped my path. Each one of you has had countless individuals in your life who have done the same. These individuals sacrificed countless hours, shed tears, and supported each and every one of us.”

In his remarks, undergraduate speaker Mahoney encourages his fellow graduates to celebrate themselves as well as their supporters on this special day.

“So while truly I encourage all of you to celebrate today for yourself, I genuinely ask you to thank the people who were in your corner throughout this journey because without them we all would have faltered at some point.” 

Kathleen Karkos, '81, inducted the graduates into the Alumnae/i Association.

In his closing statement, Crosby, on behalf of the SEU community, encouraged the graduates to utilize the knowledge and skills they earned to “soar high above the rest, and change the world while doing so.”