Celebrating Our Grads
ALBANY, N.Y. (May 22, 2018) – More than 3,330 students are now Great Danes alumni after receiving degrees during UAlbany’s 174th Commencement Weekend from May 18-20.
The festivities began with the master’s ceremony on Friday, followed by the torch reception – celebrating the transition from student to alumni – on Saturday, and closing with the undergraduate and doctoral ceremonies on Sunday.
Dan Hart ’83, president and CEO of Virgin Orbit, offered the keynote address for our 2,320 undergraduate degree candidates. Financed by entrepreneur Richard Branson, Hart is leading a team of more than 400 who are dedicated to building a launch system that can send tiny satellites into space. He’s a graduate of UAlbany’s undergraduate Physics program.
"Follow your passion and don’t try to figure everything out right now,” he said. “Sometimes not knowing, not following ‘the normal way’ can be your best strength; it can open doors and start you on your way."
It was President Havidán Rodríguez’s first commencement weekend at UAlbany.
“Never ever be afraid to take a chance, to make those difficult decisions. If there is one thing I have learned, it is that taking risks is the surest way to succeed,” said Rodríguez, during the undergraduate ceremony.
Another 980 students received master’s degrees, doctoral degrees and graduate certificates. There were several special recognition ceremonies, including numerous undergraduate school and college ceremonies, an international celebration, hosted by International Student and Scholar Services, on Wednesday, May 16, and the 2018 Lavender Celebration on Thursday, May 17. The Lavender Celebration honors the achievements of graduating LGBTQ+ students and their supporters.
All of the ceremonies were live streamed and recorded. Follow #UAlbanyGrad on Twitter to see more from the weekend.
Photos by Patrick Dodson and Paul Miller
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A comprehensive public research university, the University at Albany-SUNY offers more than 120 undergraduate majors and minors and 125 master's, doctoral and graduate certificate programs. UAlbany is a leader among all New York State colleges and universities in such diverse fields as atmospheric and environmental sciences, business, education, public health,health sciences, criminal justice, emergency preparedness, engineering and applied sciences, informatics, public administration, social welfare and sociology, taught by an extensive roster of faculty experts. It also offers expanded academic and research opportunities for students through an affiliation with Albany Law School. With a curriculum enhanced by 600 study-abroad opportunities, UAlbany launches great careers.
