Empire State University honors Class of 2024 in Manhattan ceremony
(NEW YORK, NY – MAY 18, 2024) Empire State University celebrated the Class of 2024 on Friday, May 17 at the New York City Center at 6:00 p.m. 400 graduates crossed the stage at the university’s third statewide commencement.
Empire State University President Lisa Vollendorf and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 3 Business Manager Christopher Erikson were in attendance.
Members of the SUNY Empire class of 2024 collectively live in 57 different New York State counties, 22 U.S. states and territories, day and 15 countries around the world. They ranged from age 18 to 77. 67 of the graduates were military-affiliated students including active-duty Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, National Guard, Reserve, veterans, spouses, and other dependents.
The ceremony featured student speaker April Simmons ’12, ’24, who received a master’s of education in curriculum and instruction. Simmons earned a bachelor’s degree in community and human services with Empire State University in 2012. Brendan Kennedy ’24 was also featured, who received a bachelor’s degree in labor studies.
SUNY Empire President Lisa Vollendorf said, “Today is a for celebration – a celebration of your success, your tenacity, and your commitment to advancing your education in service to a larger purpose. A college education is not about the piece of paper you receive today. It is about the knowledge and skills you have gained that will help you succeed long into the future, even as the world constantly changes around us.”
SUNY Empire Faculty Speaker, Assistant Professor, and Assistant Director of the International Education Program in the Dominican Republic Luis Camacho said, “Congratulations once more on your thoroughly merited accomplishment. The global community eagerly anticipates the valuable contributions you will make, equipped with the knowledge, expertise, and principles you have developed at Empire State University. We are incredibly proud of your accomplishments and eagerly anticipate witnessing the great success you will attain. “
IBEW Local 3 Business Manager Christopher Erikson said, “Today, Local 3’s educational program offers you the beginning of unlimited opportunities in our union to continue on to bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and wherever it takes you. I want to congratulate you for the hard work you’ve done to deserve this day.”
SUNY Empire Student Speaker April Simmons ’24 said, “You are sitting in a seat that was designed for you. Sit proudly. Sit wisely. Sit with the understanding that the first, the second, or third time around is still your time! You were put on this earth with a purpose, and you have something amazing and memorable to offer. It might feel heavy or messy sometimes, but you will always find your way back.”
SUNY Empire Labor Student Speaker and IBEW Local 3 Electrician Brendan Kennedy ’24 said, “Speaking on behalf of the apprentices here today, we are extremely grateful to both Local 3 and the Harry Van Arsdale Jr. School of Labor Studies for this incredible opportunity to learn about solidarity. Without this education, we would be easier to break. The previous generations’ struggles, heartbreaks, losses, and triumphs paved the way for the future, and it is so critical for us to do the same!”
A recording of the ceremony can be found on Learnscape.