Graduate Division Commencement: 1,200 Degrees Awarded Touro’s Class of 2024

Graduates from the division’s five schools entered the theater in a processional led by Grand Marshall Dr. Alan Sebel, while pomp and circumstance played and a live feed was projected onto two jumbo screens on both sides of the stage.

Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Graduate and Professional Divisions Dr. Patricia Salkin opened the ceremonies with congratulatory and welcoming remarks to the class and their guests as they settled in at the amphitheater on the world-famous boardwalk in Brooklyn.

President Dr. Alan Kadish Addresses Future

Following an invocation delivered by Executive Vice President Rabbi Moshe Krupka, Touro University President Dr. Alan Kadish congratulated the class for their hard work and commitment to fulfilling their dreams. He expressed confidence that as they go forward, they will continue to transform their aspirations into realities.

“Graduates from your programs have become leaders in social work, technology, business, and both secular and Jewish education,” the president said. “Since receiving university status in New York several years ago, our graduate schools increased in both visibility and prestige. But the real prestige stems from you – our graduates – and the many things you will go on to achieve.”

Regardless of what’s next, Dr. Kadish cautioned, crossroads will be encountered, some leading to greater challenges and others offering paths of least resistance.

“You will find that it’s not just about making a living. Your choices will include not only prioritizing issues and causes that are most important to you, but also how you choose to defend those issues and promulgate those causes,” he said. “As our education graduates learned, education requires the civil exchange of ideas. It also demands respect for all opinions.”

The president urged the class to pursue purpose and set personal as well as professional goals. “View work as an opportunity to contribute to society. Harness your strengths, learn something new every day, and turn your career into a pathway to a meaningful life.”

Student Speakers Share Reflections

The deans of the division’s five schools introduced their student speakers to share personal reflections:

Mushka Steinmetz, M.A., Graduate School of Jewish Studies: “Our world right now is in a state of upheaval. In the face of such chaos, one might ask, is now the time for historical inquiry? Fellow graduates, as we step into the fray armed with our pens, let us remember: our voices are not feeble. We possess a potent weapon—the power to unearth truths from the annals of history and illuminate the path forward with hope.”

Ms. Fyruz Ramisa, MBA, Health Care Management, Graduate School of Business: “Each of us has overcome challenges and obstacles to reach this milestone, which is a testament to our resilience and determination… As Nelson Mandela once said, ‘It always seems impossible until it's done.’ Let these profound words guide us forward, urging us to persevere toward greatness, especially in the face of daunting challenges.”

Yessica Lora Acosta, M.S., School Counseling, Graduate School of Education: Let us not forget the values that have been our guiding light: integrity, empathy, and the pursuit of excellence. Our education equips us to pursue our dreams, uplift those around us, and enhance our communities. Let us start the next chapter with courage, humility, and self-belief. The future looks unlimited and with our boundless potential we will tackle and overcome life’s challenges.”

Krissoula Martin, MSW, Graduate School of Social Work: “Hold on to the passion and commitment that brought you to this moment. We are filled with optimism and hope. The next generation of social workers stands ready to confront challenges with courage, compassion, and integrity. Embrace the challenges with open hearts and unwavering determination. Undoubtedly, you will positively impact the lives of those you serve.”

Lasha Gochiashvili, M.S., Data Analytics, Graduate School of Technology: “Our incredible achievement is not just in completing a program and in receiving a diploma. But, rather, it reflects late-night sacrifice, hard work, and perseverance. We’ve shared lifetime memories, supported each other, and created friendships that will last a lifetime. We inspired each other to succeed. You are my inspiration with your own stories, and I applaud each of you.