Empire State University Honors Class of 2023 in Manhattan Ceremony

(NEW YORK, NY — May 26, 2023) Empire State University celebrated the class of 2023 on Friday, May 26 at the New York City Center located at 131 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019.

This is the first graduating class under the university's new designation as Empire State University, formally SUNY Empire State College. SUNY Empire President Lisa Vollendorf and SUNY Board of Trustees member Alexandria Chun were in attendance.

Of the 2,200 members of the SUNY Empire class of 2023, graduates collectively live in 58 different New York state counties, in 24 U.S. states and territories, 17 countries around the world, and ranged from ages 19 to 79. 

SUNY Empire President Lisa Vollendorf said, "I am so proud to celebrate Empire State University’s 2023 graduating class! We are champions of equity and inclusion, and we continually seek new ways to deliver on our commitment to access and excellence. Our students stand apart from the crowd and know that educational attainment can be achieved at any age and at any stage of life.” 

Chairman of the Joint Industry Board of the Electrical Industry Gerald Finkel said, "We are as proud as ever of our graduating journeypersons, apprentices, and other Local 3 members. They will be joining the ranks of literally thousands of apprentices whose tuition and fees have been paid by our apprentice training program as a required part of their indentured program. Congratulations to all of our graduates and their families."

SUNY Empire Faculty Speaker and Assistant Professor in Business, International Business, and Marketing Luis Camacho said, “Today, we celebrate your academic achievements and your personal growth and development. The education that you have received at Empire State University has equipped you with the necessary skills, knowledge, and values to make a positive difference in the world. Whether pursuing further studies, entering the workforce, or embarking on a different path, you will make a meaningful contribution to society. We are confident you will positively impact the world and cannot wait to see what the future holds for each of you. Congratulations, graduates!"

SUNY Empire student speaker Jennie White said, "As you embark on your next steps, remember that you are not alone. Your fellow graduates, faculty, and staff have supported you on this journey, and they will continue to do so as you move forward. I encourage you to stay connected to the SUNY Empire community, to seek out mentors, and to give back in any way you can."

SUNY Empire Harry Van Arsdale Jr. School of Labor Studies student speaker Joanna Kokosis said "It is truly an honor to stand alongside you all. I urge all of my fellow graduates to continue striving for excellence. Be that mentor for the next generation because we are the future, we hold the power to make the world a better place and to change this union for the better as well. Don't be scared to take risks, to explore, and to make mistakes, because we live, and we learn, we will grow, and we will make a difference. So, let's seize the day and make the most of this moment. Because today, we are all graduating and that is something to be proud of."