Rochester Student Speaker Jakeith Mosley: “What I’m Building Isn’t Just for Me Anymore”

Jakeith Mosley in cap and gown stands at a podium labeled “Empire State University Commencement,” raising one hand with two fingers extended; blue and gold graphics frame the image, including a torch logo and “Class of 2026.”
Jakeith Mosley. Photo by Joseph O'Dea.
Posted On: May 18, 2026

With commencement season underway, it’s time to meet the graduates that have been handpicked to address their peers and attendees at each of Empire State University’s four ceremonies throughout the month of May.

Rochester-born Jakeith Mosley, who currently resides in Cary, North Carolina, was selected to address graduates and attendees at the Rochester commencement ceremony on May 8. Mosley is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, one of the two big-picture goals he has fulfilled throughout his time at SUNY Empire. The other? Being a commencement student speaker. “Being the Rochester speaker meant so much to me and I’m honored that I was chosen,” he said. The graduate made a trip to New York to attend the ceremony.

Mosley highlights the accessibility of SUNY Empire’s online model as a key component of his experience with the university. “This has suited my personal life balance well,” he noted. The student speaker also emphasizes the importance of the support faculty and staff members provided. “SUNY Empire professors are phenomenal! The staff is extremely helpful and responsive. I loved my entire journey at this school,” he shared. For Mosley, the university’s support went hand in hand with his hard work and dedication. “This is proof that when you put in the effort, stay consistent, and refuse to give up, anything is possible,” he said at the podium during his speech.

Commencement tied everything together for Mosley. “Everyone seemed so genuine and made it feel extremely important and special,” he commented about the bustling energy at the Kodak Center, where graduates, families, and university employees gathered to celebrate the Class of 2026.

In his remarks, the speaker shared: “It took me seven years to get here. And somewhere along that journey I became a father.” Mosley spoke about the resilience needed to stay on track, something which most SUNY Empire graduates have had to cultivate as they balance competing priorities. “What I’m building isn’t just for me anymore: it’s for her,” said the spring graduate about his daughter, who gave him the strength to show up consistently and remains his motivation to excel.

Looking ahead, Mosley plans to pursue a master’s degree at a CACREP-accredited university. Becoming a licensed mental health counselor is the recent graduate’s new North Star. To close his commencement address, he cheered on SUNY Empire’s newest alums: “Take the next step into your purpose and give it everything you got.”