Meet the Spring 2024 Rochester Commencement Platform Party
(ROCHESTER, NY – MAY 7, 2024) Empire State University’s Rochester commencement ceremony is just a few days away. Meet this year’s platform party who will be celebrating and honoring our graduates!
President Lisa Vollendorf:
At commencement you can find me: Speaking to graduates and handing them diplomas as they cross the stage.
My message to our graduates: “I am always inspired to meet our graduates and learn their personal stories of perseverance and success.”
Director of Academic Support Sophia Mavrogiannis:
At commencement you can find me: Reading the names of our graduates as they cross the stage.
My message to our graduates: “Congratulations graduates! You did it! You’ve overcome so much to be here today and I have no doubt that you are all destined for success.”
Associate Provost for Student Success Seana Logsdon:
At commencement you can find me: Helping President Vollendorf hand out diploma covers to our graduates.
My message to our graduates: “It is with great pleasure that I offer my warmest congratulations to our graduates. Your hard work, courage, and dedication have been inspiring. Enjoy every moment as you step onto the stage and hear your name called. Those cheers are for you, and you deserve each one!”
Provost Hitesh Rai Kathuria:
At commencement you can find me: Emceeing the event.
My message to our graduates: “Your graduation from Empire State University speaks to your determination, intellect, and the countless hours you’ve invested in the pursuit of knowledge. Congratulations on this extraordinary achievement.”
Lecturer Joanne Knapp-Elvidge:
At commencement you can find me: Leading our graduates to and from the stage as the Mace Bearer.
My message to our graduates: “Embrace this moment and CELEBRATE, as you have worked so very hard! Those moments when you didn’t think you belonged here — you will soon take center stage to showcase to everyone (including yourself) how very much you belong! Use your education, knowledge and skills as a means to have a positive impact on this world! You’ve got this — I’m so very proud and excited for each of you! Congratulations to the Class of 2024!”
Assistant Professor Karis Jones:
At commencement you can find me: Delivering a speech as the faculty speaker for Rochester’s ceremony.
My message to our graduates: “This commencement address will consider the hard work our graduates have done over the course of their education and encourage them as they move forward to make intentional decisions about how to spend their time in consequential ways.”
Student Speaker Christine Lalka:
At commencement you can find me: Delivering a speech as the student speaker for Rochester’s ceremony.
My message to our graduates: “You are never too old to achieve your dreams, and perseverance pays off every time.”
Administrative Assistant Rebecca Monaghan:
At commencement you can find me: Singing the National Anthem.
My Message to our graduates: “On behalf of all employees at SUNY Empire, CONGRATULATIONS!!! We are so proud of you for reaching this major milestone. Your determination has secured your success and we have no doubt that you will continue to reach the goals you set for yourself. Enjoy the spotlight today – you have EARNED this recognition and we are so proud to count you amidst our esteemed alumni!”