Point Park University's 64th Annual Commencement

good afternoon everyone ladies and gentlemen parents and Guardians my name is Mark Palumbo and I am the President of the student government Association and I am very proud of the accomplishments SGA has achieved this year such as bus passes for all full-time undergraduate students upgrading our campus Wi-Fi and creating a comprehensive resource guide for all students to access today I'm graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in acting now that doesn't make a lot of sense though does it right a theater major being president of the student government Association I mean on one hand I'm one step away from being a lawyer on the other hand I'm one step away from being unemployed it's it's a stereotype okay it's a stereotype uh but if you really think about it it actually makes perfect sense because as an actor you are taught different techniques and you get to go on a journey of self-discovery and creativity to learn things about being a human being but you don't get to learn the business side as much and that is what student government has taught me and that is what being a leader at Point Park has taught me now my path to this moment today has been full of twists and turns if you look back one year ago today April 29th 2023 that is the date I should have graduated but when Co hit all of our courses shifted online and I just had a feel feeling I had to do something else I mean I enjoyed being in the classroom and collaborating with others however after a lot of consideration I decided to take a gap semester and then I took another semester off so I was off for a whole year all my friends thought I wasn't going to return and it would be the end of my academic career but in reality taking that year off was the best decision I've ever made it gave me time to reassess what I really wanted to do with my life and to solidify where I wanted to take my life in the future for my professional career that year I worked at my parents' shoe store selling shoes while simultaneously making daily Tik Tok videos uh garnering over a 100,000 followers when I was working there when I returned to Point Park I was greeted by an entirely new class of actors who thankfully accepted me into their already wellestablished Ensemble my sophomore year was filled with the expertise and guidance of milia aash Sam Munos and Phil Winters the most remarkable acting teachers and mentors I've ever had the privilege to work with my junior year was when I stopped taking my 45-minute commute from Beaver County and started Living downtown well to be more specific my brother started to live downtown and uh I was sleeping on his couch let's just say that uh every single night this was important though because it allowed me to be on campus way more than I ever had before and I ended and I end ended up starting the Point Park chess club and creating a culture of chill relaxing fun uh with friends in our Point Park coffee shop and this year I I went on to serve as your student government president getting to work with Incredible mentors along the way such as Brad kovalic Michael geki Key Sapienza Keith poo and many more who have made a huge impact on my life I can't thank them enough for what they have done for me and the countless students they have helped over the years Years to all of the parents here today on behalf of all of our students I want to say thank you because sometimes we forget all right let's be honest we forget sometimes we get busy with class work partying a little bit you know uh and uh we forget the little things sometimes so thank you thank you for raising us thank you for putting up with us thank you for believing in us and thank you for the time you dedicated to getting us here today we would not be here today if it were not for all of you whether you are a mother a father an aunt uncle brother sister grandparent or a friend thank you me being up here today thanking you will not repay the debt that we will owe you forever but is still what you deserve to hear to my parents Mom Dad thank you for always encouraging me trusting me and letting me be who I am they have have always supported me even when times were tough that is what family is for I don't take that for granted and I know that all of the graduates out there lined up don't take that for granted either I'll end with a quote from a small and upand cominging actor uh Denzel Washington once said that was it don't just aspire to make a living aspire to make a difference don't just aspire to make a living aspire to make a difference Point Park is taught me that and all of our graduates here today so I'll say it once more if it hasn't sunk in yet thank you and congratulations to the class of [Applause] 2024 e again ladies and gentlemen welcome to Point Park University's 64th commencement ceremony our ceremony will now begin the ceremony begins with our flag Bears next year's president and vice president of student government Kyle mclin and Dylan Peterson [Music] ladies and Gentlemen please welcome to the arena our Grand Marshal for today's commencement ceremony Dr Angela Isaac [Music] ladies and Gentlemen The Faculty of Point Park University for [Music] and Now ladies and gentlemen the 2024 graduating class of Point Park University [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] a [Music] h [Music] a [Music] the [Music] [Applause] [Music] and finally ladies and Gentlemen please welcome to the arena the platform party for today's ceremony the platform party includes the president of Point Park University the probost members of the Board of Trustees and the president's cabinet [Music] h [Music] ladies and Gentlemen please remain standing for the singing of our national anthem by present musical theater major Andrea [Music] Nandan can you see by the dawn early light what so proudly we hate at the Twilight last gleaming who brought Shri and bright stars through the perous fight or the r parts we watch were so gly streaming and the rocket red glare the bombs bursting in there gave proof through the night that our flag was still there oh say does that star [Music] spangled yet for the land of of the free and the home of the brave you may be seated thank you Andrea we would like to begin today's ceremony by acknowledging some of the members of our platform party who work on behalf of our University guiding the important decisions that shape the future of Point Park University first with the members of the Board of Trustees please stand and be recognized [Applause] next we would like to acknowledge the members of the president's cabinet please stand and be [Applause] recognized and finally with the Deans of the schools please stand and be [Applause] recognized it is now myON honor and privilege to introduce Dr chrisopher Sales president of Point Park University good afternoon and welcome to the 2024 undergraduate commencement ceremony at Point Park [Music] University on behalf of our entire university community I am honored to welcome our graduating students as well as your families friends and loved ones who have supported you on this journey you know this is a momentous occasion that celebrates your hard work perseverance and achievements and I often use this phrase and it's always true but today it has even more meaning it's a great day to be a [Music] Pioneer now family members and in the a in the audience for whom today is a time of Pride and celebration please stand and be recognized for the love and support you've given these graduates family members [Applause] and friends and other loved ones who've come today to celebrate with us please stand and be recognized for the role you've played in these graduates [Applause] lives and I would love for our incredible faculty and staff of Point Park University stand up and take some [Applause] Applause it's my pleasure now to welcome the chair of our Board of Trustees Dr Lisa Civic [Applause] good afternoon on behalf of the Board of Trustees of Point Park University a hearty Pittsburgh as only pittsburghers can welcome welcome I've had the honor of serving On The Board of Trustees since 2015 I am a second generation board member my mother was a faculty member for almost two decades I know what Point Park University represents and what it represents to the Pittsburgh Community I am proud of each and every one of you who receives your degree today your hard work has paid off now you will join a vast alumni Pioneer Network Pioneers are spread all over the globe I encourage you to be a Pioneer in your field of study Forge A New Path be bold be unafraid to go to undiscovered places Star Trek like in your career whether it been the Arts Sciences businesses communication education like my family or my career path medicine we members of the Board of Trustees can can't wait to see what you'll do with the knowledge the experience and the spirit that you have gained and garnered from Point Park University my heartfelt congratulations Dr brelis always says go Pioneers I say continue to be a Pioneer thank you thank you so much Dr cic and now please welcome back Dr balis to the podium for the traditional charge to the graduates what a remarkable day this is I mean it's it's truly an incredible day and while every day is a great day to be a Pioneer you know in my first year of present I've come to love two days in particular above all others and the first is the day that I welcome our bright brigh eyed first year students to campus and the second being today seeing our graduating seniors ready to embark on their next Adventures armed with the knowledge and experiences gained here at Point Park University you know while I wasn't here when you started classes in August 2020 I do know that you are handed a very unique test of your strength your resilience adaptability as the world faced unprecedented challenges brought on by a global pandemic you the class of 2024 began your academic Journey amidst uncertainty navigating covid-19 restrictions remote learning the loss of Traditional High School Milestones like prom and inperson graduation and despite these obstacles you've demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination amidst the challenges you've adeptly utilized platforms like Tik Tok to connect with one another and maintain the sense of community highlighting your ability to embrace technology is a tool for building relationships I mean you are the inaugural class of the Tik Tok generation you've you've embodied the values of community and acceptance throughout your time at Point Park University fostering friendships finding your place within our Campus Community in providing unwavering support to your peers your commitment to celebrating diversity looking out for one another and creating an inclusive environment is truly truly commendable you know as we celebrate your accomplishments today I'm spurred on by the inspiring success stories within your graduating class from academic Excellence to athletic achievements campus involvement to community service each of you has left an indelible mark on our University while each of you is a success story in your own right I would like to take a few moments to recognize a few exceptional individuals from your class from Jags jair yeah Jo Jags a 7 foot2 business undergraduate and key player on our conference Championship men's basketball team from from India to Allison plao a talented member of our yeah of our women's track and field and cross country team and multiple NAIA National qualifier they're you know they're joined by Philip Harter aound a standout member of our men's soccer team and a native of Germany as an allconference player and team captain for the Pioneers Philip has shown dedication leadership both on and off the field your successes as a class have gone well beyond Athletics do you realize in your midst are future journalists Business Leaders engineers accountants leaders and stage and Screen entertainment psychologists entrepreneurs social workers poets community leaders and elected officials here's some examples eron Ute a a journalism major with a psychology minor participated in the 2024 Berlin Capital program as a Fullbright scholar and served as the Editor in Chief of the globe and I can personally attest to aon's pressing interview skills and dogged determination to deliver the news having endured numerous interviews with her there's there there is Nick uh konopa a broadcasting major who completed his degree requirements in December of 20 2023 and he's attending today's commencement you know he was recently hired as a desk assistant at NBC News in Washington DC an intern an intern to prestigious organizations like Meet the Press NBC News WQ multimedia bedia and 90.5 wesa Nick also served as the Director of programming news reporter and producer for U television UW television you know our Conservatory Performing Arts has standout students like Cole schules a Cinema Arts major with an accounting minor who who interned at a 24 films and worked as a playr as a payroll clerk for Netflix the Deliverance which was filmed in Pittsburgh there's there's Anna King skills a Theater Arts major with a Social Justice minor who is selected by Pennsylvania Humanities to visit the national Constitution Center and see Hamilton on Broadway as part of the if you were in the room trip Anna has been involved in activities across campus including Student Government ass Association honors program ghost light theater company wppj and book club Natalia Hillen Natalie is a journalism and major with marketing minor served as the president of the honor student organization has been involved in very various activities including UW co-hosting the Pioneer careers podcast serving as a social media manager for the role in School of Business in interning at KD Ka while also a consistent star and National qualifier in track and field Matthew Harris an economics and finance major with a business minor has been an acap counselor for three Summers launched Pioneer careers Club has been held various work study positions including the the with the professional career Readiness Center and tutoring Services he's also involved in the student accounting Association and attend the Disney leadership seminar math Matthew recently landed a role with bny melon in their rotational program Sports arts and entertainment management graduate Ryan Dawson has certainly left his mark on Point Park University you know Ryan is the founder of the horned groundhog Fellowship student service club and redesigned our clothing pantry and into a thrift store the Bison exchange you know through cleanup projects and homeless Outreach progr programs Ryan has worked tirelessly to improve the community for both his fellow students and those surrounding the university in the School of Arts and Sciences we have standout students like Miguel uh torra nor Tegra a mechanical engineering major originally from mer Mir mirabu Venezuela Miguel is a member of The Point Park baseball team and the Spanish club and was featured in the alagan conference's B Pittsburgh campaign he's also intern at civil and environmental consultants and finally there's Hannah lanam a forensic science major with minors in criminal justice biological sciences and chemistry now that's a lot of minors she's a member of the society for intelligence and National Security Hannah is intern at the Dr s HW pathology Associates and fat County Corner's office you know your class was denied the experience of an inperson graduation from high school so may you Savor this celebration of your achievements as well as those of your classmates look around look around this is the last time all of you will be together as a group in this place the place where your adult life began to take shape these are the people with whom you created a lasting community and Legacy see far past today as each of you embark on the next chapter of your lives remember to take a piece of Point park with you wherever you go whether you're starting a new job pursuing further education or exploring the world Beyond Pittsburgh carry with you the values of resilience community and acceptance that Define our University class of 2024 you have not only changed Point Park for the better but you also left behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of students as you step out into the world remember that you are capable of achieving greatness and making a difference where wherever life takes you as you stand on the brink of a new chapter in your lives I'm reminded of a wi of Winston Churchill's powerful words the Earth is Yours and the F and the fullness thereof be kind but be fierce you are needed now more than ever before take up the mantle of change the obstacles you've overcome have shaped you in individuals capable of a driving positive CH driving positive change as you move forward remember that you are The Architects of your own destiny and agents of transformation in a world that is constantly evolving congratulations graduates we are very pleased and honored to have Dr darl Fields is our keyote speaker today Dr Fields is a new member of The Point Park University Board of Trustees he's a senior neurological surgery resident with a dual appointment as a post-doctoral research fellow at the University of Pittsburgh he completed his undergraduate degree at St John's University of Minnesota and his medical degree as well as his research PhD so he's an MD PhD from the University of Wisconsin Madison it's a big deal prior to medical school Dr Fields held several leadership positions as a firefighter captain and Medic in addition he spent several years as a neural rehab personal trainer managing clients with debilitating neuromuscular disorders including stake stroke brain trauma multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries these experiences have inspired both his research and clinical interest in in spino neurorestorative Therapies Dr field has been Fields has been recognized with several nationally competitive Awards and fellowships from the National Institute of Health National Science Foundation in addition to funding from private organizations such as the National Football League Pittsburgh Steelers Merc Pharmaceuticals and the live like L Foundation now I first met Dr Fields about five or so years ago I'm the vice chair of the like Lou foundation and we're focused on finding a treatment and cure for Lou Garrick's disease which is ALS so I met Dr Fields at a conference where we assembled from around the world rising stars in research those researching neurod degenerative diseases and and we found Dr Field's research to be you know incredibly promising and and truly Cutting Edge so you know not long ago Dr Fields was sitting in your seats receiving his undergraduate degree which which truly proves out that hard work perseverance curiosity and a dream can give anyone the ability to change the world anyone the ability to change the world please welcome my dear friend our Point Park trustee and and your commencement speaker Dr darl Fields thank you for those generous words Chris generally speaking most commencement speakers follow the same outline we talk about our experiences our passion our adversity and then lead to our accomplishments and awards that make us appropriate to give you UNS unsolicited advice I don't plan to stray from that script right before ending we tell you to follow your passion and love what you do by doing this you will live a fulfilled life there lies the deficit we tell you to follow some undefined sense of purpose but give you no advice on how to find that I'll try to address that today I for one at 21 and 22 had no idea what I wanted to do with my life I remember as a teenager I would hear people say that they knew for sure they were going to be an athlete a doctor a lawyer as I entered College I had no idea and I felt lost I felt unsure of what path to take and I felt as though I was just wandering in the woods searching for an exit there's a pressure that if you don't know what you're going to do the first day doors are going to be closed for you and you will fail I'm here to tell you that is not true I'm here to tell you that there are predetermined paths if you follow them you will lead to a predetermined destination but those those of us who Venture off the path are not lost I reflect on my serpentine Journey that led me here today as Chris mentioned during college I was a firefighter I remember the exact event that guided me away from that career into medicine late one night we got a call that there was a patient who had fallen in a nursing home and that they needed our assistance helping them up we thought this was a casual call so I remember joking as we entered the back entrance of the nursing home the demeanor quickly changed as we appr appreciated Blood on the wall we took a few steps turned the corner and I found an older gentleman gasping for air as blood came from his mouth I pulled a breathing tube from the bag and I placed it immediately it filled with blood I stood up quickly searching for another breathing tube but he grabbed my hand and he pulled me down so I knelt directly in front of him he stared at my eyes searching for hope I had none to give him we both acknowledged that he was going to die there today my team fought fear fearlessly the exchanges to but filled again with blood We Begin chest compressions we transported him a moment came where I gripped his hand and I wished that somehow I can transfer my oxygen into him and keep him alive that wasn't going to happen a moment again passed and I realized that I was gripping his hand but he wasn't gripping back this was the first time I felt fa failure true failure I took this experience and I became obsessed with medicine I wanted to learn more and I wanted to learn how of this situation ever came up I could address it this experience diverted my path my predetermined path on which I was going to become a firefighter a fire chief a marshall it diverted me off a path that I didn't know where to go despite having no clear Direction I wandered forward I stumbled I persisted and eventually led me to where I am today today I'm a surgeon scientist I have the pleasure of developing treatments for paralysis my job is literally to develop cures for patients who can't [Applause] breathe I can't tell you exactly how I got to where I am today but I do know that the first step is always to move forward experience is going to inspire passion and passion is going to is going to Define purpose when you find your purpose persist and always move forward I've read undergraduate applications and medical school applications of bright intelligent people who say since I was 15 years old I knew for certain I was going to be blank the reality is that no teenager knows what a career is you learn that from experience the first step is always to gain experience as such you owe it to to yourself to start by taking that initial step forward if like me you venture off into the unknown know that you will be challenged you will stumble whether it's meeting failure whether it's losing someone you love or whether it's finding resistance from others who don't understand your passion I encourage you all to persist Journeys are rarely linear but when Guided by Passion a sense of purpose they are always worthwhile so before we end a few housekeeping tips that I reflect on every day be be good for goodness sake kindness is not transactional don't do a kind act because you're expecting something in return when you win make sure someone else is winning with you sharing even 25% of your success with someone else does not take away from your win say good morning say goodbye say I love you and say sorry only when appropriate but never hold back back out of fear that it won't be reciprocated class of 2024 congratulations I look forward to hearing reading and watching your success I encourage you all to chase curiosity become Trailblazers and truly go Pioneer thank you thank you so much Dr Fields we are truly honored to have you with us today good afternoon my name is Michael sto and I'm Provost and Senior vice president of academic Affairs at Point Park University as the University's Chief academic officer it's my pleasure to present the distinguished teaching award each year The Faculty assembly's campus academic res Source resources committee solicits nominations from students staff and faculty colleagues it then carefully considers each nominee's teaching portfolio the distinguished teaching award recognizes the dedication and contributions of a truly outstanding teacher mentor and student advocate for the first time this year we honor both a full-time and part-time member of The Faculty just to be nominated for the award is a tremendous honor and so I'd like to mention the nominees Here Andrew KY Roy Cox Francis stobus Katherine drapkin Stephanie Gallagher Jan glunk Jess mccort Sandy mvos Christen Muka Conor Murphy pearand Porter Judith reneg Jennifer shop and Elena Smith and now I invite campus academic resources committee chair Dr Linda hippert to present the award thank you Dr stto it is definitely an honor and a privilege to present this year's Awards on behalf of the faculty and the university our committee was tasked with choosing recipients from over 70 nominees and 14 finalists The Faculty of evaluation committee representing all of the schools in the University were certainly inspired reading about how our dedicated faculty impact our students and change their lives we know from research it is indeed our faculty our teachers who have the greatest impact on student achievement and success so as chair of the campus academic resources committee I'm honored to announce this year's two distinguished teaching Award winners and I would ask that they please come to the podium first the part-time teaching award is awarded to Dr Andy Conti he's part-time in the School of Communications assistant DP and managing director of the center for media Innovation congratulations Andy and next our full-time award I'm honored to announce Dr Jessica [Applause] mccort Dr court is a full-time faculty member in the department of literature culture and Society and also director of our honors program [Applause] congratulations such phenomenal faculty at Point Park this year we have again invited all of our veterans to wear honor cords I ask them to please stand to be recognized for their service to our country and for their academic achievements veterans would you please stand so we can honor [Applause] you and now to recognize the exceptional GR graduates who were selected for the academic Excellence award by the faculty in their respective departments Dr bruses I am honored to announce them to you graduates please stand in place as your names are read and remain standing until all have been recognized I ask the audience to please hold your applause until all names have been called in the School of Arts and Sciences from the criminal justice and intelligence studies Department Hannah lanam from the literature culture and Society Department Juliet Jacobs from the Natural Sciences and engineering department ciah hammer peni and Jason CTIC from the psychology department Marley Parker and the Roland School of Business from The Sports Arts entertainment and music business department Elliot Gregory and Samuel perator from the business analytics and technology department Michaela Slater from from the business management department Janice Schmid from the school of communication Gavin Anderson in the conservatory of Performing Arts from the cinema Department Emily boam from the dance Department Emily West from the theater department Madison Downing and from the school of education Caitlyn Celli please join me in giving these remarkable GR graduates a round of applause now I am pleased to introduce this year's student speaker please join me in welcoming to the stage Anna King skeles who today receives their Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Theater Arts [Applause] [Music] [Applause] okay hello everyone good morning class of 2024 and our beautiful friends and family my name is Anna King SKS from BFA Theater Arts major and I'm so happy to see you today at Point Park University's 2024 commencement ceremony I'm having a hard time believing that we're truly here some of you might be feeling the same way as a 2020 High School grad my last graduation was a live streamed PowerPoint um that I watched from my couch so this is safe to say a big Improvement in my preparation for today I've been reflecting on that time of our lives um when I arrived at College I wanted so badly for it to be perfect I wanted to be best friends with my roommates I wanted my classmates and my professors to love me and to join a million clubs make everyone proud I wanted to be the picture perfect Point Park University student on all the brush Shores so I acted out of fear I showed up to all my classes at least 30 minutes early um I spent every second of my time studying and rehearsing and when things felt hard I put my head down and I muddled through determined to get through it on my own a lesson you'll learn quickly if you're anything like me we're not meant to Bear the entirety of our struggles on our own we're meant to share them with our friends with our families and to take on portions of theirs for our ourselves with save me in my early days at Point Park is that even when you think you're doing it all on your own you're not you're surrounded by professors o um you're surrounded by professors that teach with compassion and courage that push us as students to do things that we've never done before it's in your classrooms I found that failure is not something to hide from but to dive into it teaches you things that nothing else can it debunks Perfection opens the door to experimentation I'd much rather be writing a bad play than staring at a blank page Paralyzed by illusions of perfection thank you for teaching me that another truth I was always surrounded by the kindest classmates Point Park University class of 2024 thank you for your rockus laughter and your Fierce determination I'm unbelievably proud of your achievements of your internships your Awards your starring roles your A+ tests and I'm proud of your late assignments of your botched auditions and your cries and Boulevard Apartments I want to go back to all the versions of you that exist in those moments and tell them that the world didn't end we got past each and every one of them the breakups the scary emails the major life events that seem to pop up right as you had to take a final they didn't stop us from arriving at this moment we're graduating and we have so much to show for it you know we're tour guides and Pioneer ambassadors and student athletes we Museum goers and late night bingo lovers we're college graduates almost class of 2024 when I think of what I wish for for your future I want you to take chances so big that the lessons are even bigger make your mistakes out loud and when the moment is over find your breath write a poem even if it's bad and come back stronger find A New Perspective if I know anything about you it's that you can take on the challenge and you aren't alone I mean look around you're here with 560 of your very best friends I wanted so badly to have the perfect college experience but there's no such thing and it hasn't been perfect it has been Dynamic and it has been inspiring so class of 2024 My Hope for your future isn't that it's perfect it's that it challenges you I hope that it shows you things that you've never imagined and I hope you face it with the grace and compassion that I've borne witness to over our time at Point Park greet the future with open arms and and know that we're capable of making the rest of our lives as extraordinary as you've made these past four years thank you so much congratulations thank you thank you Anna for your eloquence and Poise and thoughtfulness and for those tremendous heels I have to raise the mic before we begin the central event in today's celebration the awarding of diplomas and conferral of degrees I want to acknowledge and once again congratulate the 10 doctoral and 75 master's degree graduates who had their academic hoods awarded and degrees conferred early earlier this morning at The Graduate hooding Ceremony President rales it is now my distinct pleasure to present to you the candidates for the Balor degree to the candidates after you receive your diploma please proceed to center stage where you will have a photo taken with President brus Alis then continue on and return to your seats since a photographer will be present and given the nature of the event you should refrain from taking pictures while on stage professors milia aash and Dave failly will be reading the names of our graduates [Applause] today will the degree candidates from the School of Arts and Sciences please come forward Dr Josie Brown Dean will hand you your diploma and congratulate you yeah Bachelor of Science criminal justice Pim adikari nir Galloway Jaden Mosby Spencer Wallace Katherine Marsh Dominic Madison Joan Ernst Hannah Jane [Applause] lanam pton Alexandria Mobius Alana Nina Morton [Music] Kaye Ania Meyers sorry jayen NY Lillian Elizabeth pins Bethany Marie venel Chanel Lee Britain Devin Z Shank Leila yaneri Kevin J Basher Ariana Rose Bellamy [Applause] Joseph Edward [Applause] Phillips Jenna and Delon Emily fle Jessica Marie hville Paige McKenzie Baron Ivon M fields [Applause] Den [Applause] haret willicia Desa Miller yes you got it Malcolm [Applause] [Music] Murphy Alejandro [Applause] Perez Britney ly stasak Dominic Angelo Zuko Trevor William Fitz Simmons Juliet [Applause] Jacob Nicole Lara Orby [Music] [Applause] ring Michaela L Ivanovic Lauren Francis wisman Sarah beay yeah Macy Monahan Karam Das Anna Marie Eisman CA orenda hammer peni Sierra rain hanky Andrea J hetrick Isabella Marie payia Charles Tyrone Powell Kenneth Joel Roland Miguel Tucker [Applause] Andrew Baldi Christopher a hull Amanda Colleen nap Jeremy Aaron compel Alis and Marie hutchko Morgan M ival Zoe kind Mark Elliott unru [Applause] Noah James derso Kesley Nathan Luben [Applause] Carmen Marie Miller dareld shesh Kumar Patel T Miguel David Tegra [Applause] laara Anna Balman we're in Psychology General Gabrielle Maria AER Aisha Lynn Brit Alicia Denine brard [Applause] Hannah Jaden coner Anisha McKenzie delarber sky eer Mia Katherine fi Kaylee M Carly [Applause] Alysa Margaret keelen Kera Bria laws d Aran Ray lease tyia Norris Donald Marley Michael Parker [Applause] Dorian Perry boat Swain Lisa shot [Music] [Applause] Marley Louise smartnick Cara Jane spry Brianna L Stevenson okay Joe Aquarius Marve Valerie yeah I'm good really thank you will the degree candidates from the Roland School of Business please come forward Steve tanzilli Dean will hand you your diploma and congratulate you for The Bachelor of Science in accounting Julia [Applause] fidor Dante Vincenzo Gian Francesco Kirsten Jameson kler James Michael Cutler [Applause] Jr maaa Cade Slater [Applause] Sebastian [Applause] [Music] such for The Bachelor of Science and business administration Sydney Lynn Barney Andrew C [Music] figa Sierra Highland [Applause] [Music] Nate Eugene [Applause] roarer Logan Sheridan [Applause] Elijah Quinn [Applause] Burley these are for The Bachelor of Science in business management entrepreneurship sherard M Butler [Applause] [Music] Janisha Janisha [Music] Davis Rory Ethan Douglas [Applause] Katherine Elizabeth [Applause] giovanini Tyler d hertwig [Applause] Jags jaar [Applause] just had to be had to be Joel Thomas miter Cory M Meyers [Applause] Eric Edward ponitz for The Bachelor of Science in economics and finance jaama janard Sanchez [Applause] Matthew Jason Miles [Applause] [Music] Harris for a Bachelor of Science in human resource management Devin Star Carpenter [Applause] [Music] Olivia Grace Duncan Jada Rose Flay [Applause] Elise Gabriel Wallace for The Bachelor of Arts in organizational leadership Danielle Marie Corey schaer Mike Joseph [Music] Saunders for The Bachelor of Science in marketing and sales Stark biano [Applause] ariadna bla [Applause] repo Claire Elise Campbell [Applause] Courtney Lynn James Jordan Diane come Kari [Applause] nichlas [Applause] Ross Arad Smith [Applause] Morgan Alexis [Applause] Smith Cameron Taylor [Applause] Jared Edward [Applause] topping McKenzie Noel Volant for The Bachelor of Science in public administration Emergency Medical Service Leslie Darcel [Applause] house Brandon Michael [Applause] pastorik for the Bor of Science in sports arts and entertainment management Laken Alexander [Applause] Lauren Margaret [Applause] Ambrosio Franchesca Irene bra John Joseph [Applause] katone Luke Cochran [Applause] can you tell that's Brandon Brandon Brandon Curtis [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Cunningham ARA V couples [Applause] Laura Jean Davis Ryan Thomas Dawson [Applause] Cecilia [Applause] idog Aaron Michael exler [Applause] luren Alexa [Applause] farcus Anna Lee field [Applause] Jenna Elizabeth Philip [Applause] Philipi taana B Graham [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Music] you're waiting for Cade Hong Catherine h [Applause] Chelsea Elizabeth Lewis matthus Philip dos s [Applause] [Music] Lima Delan [Applause] medicos and her many fans obviously do name is Michael [Applause] Moran Jacob Keith Palmer Samuel [Applause] parator Austine Rodriguez [Applause] Ariana Ariana Rose sanker [Applause] Andrew Mathias [Applause] shock Rebecca Lynn snup Jordan Keith Elijah [Music] [Applause] Stow Nathaniel Hana van [Applause] Elijah Marcel Wilson will the degree candidates from the school of communication please come forward Dr Bernie anney Dean will hand you your diploma and congratulate you is that theun for the Bachelor of Arts broadcasting reporting Alexis lucini Alexis Lucina [Applause] Mater Gavin Anderson Nicholas Andrew konopa [Applause] for The Bachelor of Arts broadcast production and media management Alexa Nicole schales Benjamin Ross tenuta [Applause] for The Bachelor of Fine Arts graphic and interactive design Ashley brouver Alec T Dil for The Bachelor of Fine Arts and graphic and interactive design David Felipe Hernandez [Applause] bab bab [Applause] Canal we I got it Isabella Katka [Applause] Delany jaalin [Music] [Applause] lease meline Jade P Petrillo Lauren Elizabeth ratowski [Applause] for The Bachelor of Arts journalism Natalia Susan [Applause] Hillen Brendan Patrick mcamera [Music] Caitlyn N Scott Aaron Christine UT [Applause] for The Bachelor of Arts and multimedia Samantha Christa [Applause] Hindman Kayla Marie Kinsel Claire E Lindsay thank you Christian Victoria mon [Applause] cor thank you kaora cathine readinger Ella an serlin Abigail ly Yoder for The Bachelor of Fine Arts photography Abby Taylor Pritchett [Applause] Samantha wasac Jacob Chad Woodyard [Applause] [Music] for The Bachelor of Arts public relations and advertising Trinity cristelle [Applause] Carpenter Bethany Jo leam thank you Sarah Elizabeth Watkins for the The Bachelor of Arts social media p a Tiana M [Music] McIntyre Mariam manga Julia Renee sharp for The Bachelor of Arts Sports communication the one and only Joseph T Bova [Applause] India Victoria Durham look at her face Gregory Hillman [Applause] James Michael hodet Jacob Thomas cubic John [Applause] Mayor Kim ring Aiden Joseph Kim Ringo itz [Applause] thank Benicio Joshua Rodriguez okay great so now what do I do yeah education yes is is education next okay will the degree candidates from the school of education please come forward Dr Sherry Payne Dean will hand you your diploma and congratulate you for The Bachelor of Arts in PA C prek forth Bailey Elizabeth babok Ava Jean cook Christine M do Holly and McDonald Kelsey [Applause] minck Amy Irina Packard Dariana pay meline Elizabeth rney Caitlyn Rose Carelli Michaela Catherine Goodwin Stephanie L Elli Allison Marie plao [Applause] Selena Desiree Ain for The Bachelor of Arts and instructional studies Desmond J [Music] Ball Carina Christa catuli Anthony Nicholas de jerio Alexander Joseph Garbin Matthew James Nicholls Madison Danielle spurl kimim halani Francesco Petro Lombardi Marissa helinski okay sure Elizabeth Marie shrim okay sorry okay Bachelor of Science and mechanical engineering Ramiro ulun are we in okay great so will the degree candidates from the conservatory of Performing Arts oh I didn't I didn't finish please come forward now Garfield lemonius the dean and artistic director will hand you your diploma and congratulate you chill for The Bachelor of Arts in animation beul chelik [Applause] Hannah Grace HS Katrina root Shannon Amanda Santoro Madison Elizabeth Smith for The Bachelor of Arts in animation and visual effects Ricky Carrie Allen [Applause] III Jada sky befano [Applause] [Music] Emily Elizabeth [Music] Bame Ryan Alexander cubico for The Bachelor of Arts in cinema arts animation Pablo [Applause] Alvarado for The Bachelor of Arts in Cinema Arts and Cinema John Raymond balof [Applause] oh Dean Cullen Rashid Abdul part [Music] elamine thank you Caitlyn Nicole alicio [Applause] Serena Jordan ha [Applause] good Olivia Karima herd [Applause] tiia Louise capinis for The Bachelor of Arts in Cinema Arts screenwriting Harrison s Klein Jenna [Applause] corth for The Bachelor of Arts in cinema arts animation Todd laquatra [Applause] [Music] the Apparently emotional Amy Sarah Millie Rams Cole Jacob Schultz [Applause] Adam [Applause] snook Dawson Elliot White [Music] Violet FW [Applause] [Music] Wright for The Bachelor of Fine Arts the BFA in cinema production Shaina ausma [Applause] Mario John [Music] [Applause] Bishop he does not want the middle name just Luke Luke Bower [Applause] Luke [Music] Fleming Jaden Marie Morton [Music] Genesis Brian [Applause] [Music] nelsona hadassa Pearl Nicks [Applause] D Marie [Applause] rigan talber Christopher [Applause] saier Sophia Madison [Applause] Smith Aaron Elizabeth [Applause] Vargo for The Bachelor of Fine Arts in screenwriting Abigail Lillian coffee Aon Elizabeth Ging [Applause] Rhett James [Music] Huffer Tony Lyn Keller Marcela anatalia Leonard Jackson Asher Noah o'briant William Edward Torrance [Applause] for The Bachelor of Arts for the ba in dance with emphasis in modern Devin Brook [Applause] kosel so sopia Bella [Applause] for The Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance ballet Isabella Rose Al alri take two Isabella Rose Ali trus [Applause] Alysa [Applause] Alford Lauren Blair [Applause] Anderson for The Bachelor arts in dance focusing in jazz cam Jade [Applause] Baker Justin Gia [Applause] [Music] Barber Abigail Barbaro [Applause] oh cin Dan benavites [Applause] for The Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance modern Sabrina Joan [Applause] Breslin Abby Nicole Carson [Applause] Aaron Elizabeth [Applause] Claxton Abigail Rose Cowan [Applause] [Music] Molly Ying Jin [Applause] Christ Brandy Lee [Applause] deasus Jessica PA [Applause] Eastland for The Bachelor of Fine Arts and dance ballet Vanessa Rose ferano [Applause] Isabella Rose [Applause] Farley Kelsey leche fears [Applause] Hannah Elizabeth [Applause] Flynn Emma Rose [Applause] Grady Alexis Marie harlo [Applause] [Music] Kiera K [Applause] Hines Mary S hondle J Julian [Applause] horutz Ashley Nicole Hutton William Robert [Applause] ilg Haley Rose casy [Applause] [Music] Margaret [Applause] Kingsbury anel Lorraine ktz Leela Raven Lee [Applause] Martin Kellen MCN [Applause] for The Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance ballet Jennifer I [Music] [Applause] Milgram Katherine an Moffett [Applause] [Music] Haley Dawn [Applause] mulchin Amber Lynn Morgan [Applause] Jamari [Applause] Neil Seline Olivia neelson [Applause] [Music] tah Miu tiia miharu [Applause] O'Neal okay Estella pero [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Lennon Joseph [Applause] Richardson Ariel Rose [Applause] Russell Madison Rose Rizal [Applause] [Music] Santos Eliza and [Applause] [Music] Shaq middle name Ros how you say Ros Isabella Rosal [Applause] Schmidt Maya elira [Applause] seura Taylor Elizabeth Sanger [Applause] Alexandra [Applause] seratus viven Francis [Applause] [Music] [Applause] shock Drew Taylor Shoemaker [Applause] CA Tiana CA [Applause] Smith giovana t [Applause] [Music] Rachel Jubilee [Applause] Ty Jaden Tisdale [Applause] margarit [Applause] [Music] valid elanar Grace [Applause] Wadsworth L Marissa Noel woic Emily Joy [Applause] [Music] West Cameron Elizabeth Wood [Applause] for the BFA Bachelor of Fine Arts in acting Samson robino Allen take those Clark e Atkinson [Applause] Mary Katherine [Applause] Carter Ariana Zuki Copland [Applause] meline bong Ling [Applause] Cox Jonah Robert Hartman can you tell she's acting right right Sophie G [Applause] husna Sarah paulen kobuk [Applause] Ivy Katherine [Applause] mckinson Elizabeth Paige [Applause] [Music] NCI Luca Sierra Paso oh congratulations Mark Anthony [Applause] Palumbo ariela Denise Pinera [Applause] Salgado Julia Taylor [Applause] [Music] pois sand Carissa Nicole sandine [Applause] jayen Renee [Applause] wilbourne Kyle Franklin [Applause] warell Braden cray Andrew [Applause] for the BFA The Bachelor of Fine Arts and musical theater Olivia Meadow [Music] [Applause] Aubrey Payton Alexandra Brook Blake Cammy Alia [Applause] calwell Jenna Elizabeth clover [Applause] [Music] Gabriella Ray [Applause] Garza Samuel Jacob [Applause] [Music] green Miles Donovan Hannah he's acting not dance right oh okay Ryan David Jus now they're all going to want to do that right Esther suong Lee [Applause] [Music] Jance Roger [Applause] lvin Ryan John [Applause] mckinness Sabrina [Applause] [Music] McKay Jacob Boon [Applause] moead margarit Lynn Reed [Applause] Juan Carlos Romero [Applause] Munoz hiy Margaret ser [Applause] on Jordan [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Applause] [Music] L3 Jordan imara [Applause] [Music] Tidwell Alandra Nicole tiyad [Applause] cologne Franklin Hunter chensky [Applause] brandley [Applause] Bell for The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater Arts Madison Reed Downing [Applause] Abigail Paige [Applause] Hannis Mason James [Applause] hedge zoy Sabra higs [Applause] Quinn Charlie [Applause] Hoy Simone Marie Hunt [Applause] Alysa Logan [Applause] marchbank Patrick a mayoral [Applause] Alec Miller Anna King [Applause] skills CQ squire CG C oh CG I am sorry C couldn't read the card Emily Elizabeth [Applause] V Madison Young [Applause] [Music] for The Bachelor of Fine Arts in theater production for stage management Abigail Teresa [Applause] sedeno for the BFA theater production Tech design and management Patrick Jose J [Applause] Castello Tegan Elizabeth [Applause] Dean Caroline I'm sorry Caroline Roberta [Applause] inches Kirsten Jane [Applause] k Theodore Sterns la [Applause] meline Rose [Applause] mmer president Bru ales the candidates who are seated before you today have completed all the requirements for their degrees with the recommendation of the faculty of Point Park University it is my distinct privilege to present them to you for the conferring of their degrees would all candidates for degrees please rise [Applause] by the powers vested in Me by The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the board of Trustees of Point Park University I confer upon each of you the degree you have earned with all Associated rights and privileges at this time you may move your tassels from right to left congratulations Point Park graduates graduates you may now be seated it is my pleasure to introduce Matthew spedia from the alumni board of directors thank you Dr SoDo graduates I am honored today to officially welcome you to The Point Park University Alumni Association on behalf of myself the alumni board and the entire Alumni Association we are all incredibly proud of this Monumental achievement in your life now I'm sure many of you are wondering what the Alumni Association actually is well it's all of you it's me it's anyone who has earned a degree or certificate from Point Park it's a diverse network of over 30,000 people across the globe Point Park colums are found in many fields from a wide range of entertainment mediums to forensic Sciences to psychologists and Educators and far beyond that it's crazy how small the world truly becomes When you mention that you went to Point Park today your classmates become your colleagues use your connection to Point Park to your advantage don't underestimate the power you all have as as alumni through your journey ahead we welcome and encourage you to come back to Point Park whenever you can whether it's to see a show at the award-winning Pittsburgh Playhouse visit a former Professor or staff member guest lecture for a class sit in Village Park and enjoy an athletic game from homecoming activities to happy hours to alumni events across the us there are many ways for you to continue to be a part of the Point Park Community that aren't necessarily monetary and don't worry we're not going to ask you for a donation yet but there's so much more than just the dollars think of a challenge you faced as a student now I know there were a lot but just think of one now imagine that challenge you faced but another student in your shoes as an Alum you can provide guidance to our current students so that they can prosper today the scholar becomes the mentor your invaluable lessons and triumphs pave the way for the next generation of Point Park graduates in the hit musical Hamilton ly Manuel Miranda writes Legacy what is a legacy it's planting seeds in a garden you never get to see and while your story as a student has been written your legacy as an Alum is only beginning I know that seems a little bit daunting but it's okay to be nervous some of you might not know what tomorrow might look like and some of you have everything planned out I'm a big believer that everything happens for a reason I thought I had my plans figured out the day I graduated and life had a different path for me that led me here to today lucky for you me the people on this stage your fellow alums sitting next to you everyone here in this Arena or watching online and all of the Point Park alumni wherever they may be all here for you and support you because you are truly never finished learning in life and that is what being a Point Park Alum is about togetherness and unity as one the pin you received by our advancement office as you return to your seat symbolizes the connectivity of us all a pin I proudly wear today as one as well the one I received 5 years ago after I walked across this very stage a pin you can carry with you on your adventures ahead our degrees may all be different but this little pin serves as a simple reminder that unites us all as one as alumni and that no matter what surprises the future may hold you will always have a home at Point Park University speaking of prises I'd like to introduce you to a surprise guest for today's ceremony after appearing on stage at the Pittsburgh playhouse in the 2019 production of Sunday in the park of George they have gone on to appear as part of a Tony award-winning cast which led them to a Tony Award nomination of their own a Drama Desk award an outer critic Circle award a Grammy nomination and so many more most recently they appeared in the new 2024 mean gos film portraying Damen please join me in giving a warm welcome to 2021 Point Park graduate jaquel spy hey y'all I ain't got a speech um I didn't know I was going to be at the end and it's time to wrap this up I'm so proud of y'all um I I I will say the world is still discovering who point Point Park is and what Point Park is and they don't know the beauty and Excellence that is in this University and I hope that you leave here today and you are loud and proud that you went to Point Park University that your school was in downtown Pittsburgh that it's bison all over campus but we're called Pioneers um and uh for anyone who's not going home to people who will tell you this I'll tell you this up here I'm so proud of you for all the battles you fought out loud and and and quiet I'm so proud of you I'm so proud of you I really am and I know it was said earlier that today is the last day that you're all going to be together and uh I don't think that's true if you found your people here if you found the people that make you smile every day that made each day a little brighter for you I think you found people for the rest of your life and I don't think you have to leave everything here today I think you can take it with you I don't know so I hope that uh you all enjoy your dinner reservations I hope you all drink responsibly and congratulations to my fellow alumni of Point Park University thank you thank you jaquel thank you Matt you're you're both Point Park alumni so would you please stand and would the other members of The Point Park alumni in the audience please stand and be recognized Point Park alumni welcome home remember to attend the receptions following this they're organized by school Point Park University does not belong to the faculty the administration or the staff instead it belongs to the graduates who've earned their degrees from the University you and the 30,000 plus alumni are the very fabric of this University your alumni is Association provides a formal program of events and services through which you will be able to participate in oncampus events as well as Regional activities Point Park University your University invites your continued participation in its very Dynamic life on behalf of the university community we wish you our graduates success and happiness in all your future endeavors and as always go Pioneers many thanks to all of you who came here to share in this joyous occasion please remain seated while the platform party the faculty and the graduates recess family and friends please turn your attention to the screen above to navigate to the school Gathering of your graduate graduates please recess following the platform party and faculty in reverse order in the way that you entered once again congratulations now let's go celebrate [Applause] [Music] a [Music] h [Music]

Channel: Point Park University

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Id: Z0T5HoKgllo

Length: 159min 28sec (9568 seconds)

Published: Fri Apr 26 2024