On Sept. 22, 2026, first-year students on St. Joseph’s University, New York’s Brooklyn Campus gathered in Tuohy Hall during common hour for the University’s Investiture Ceremony, a tradition marking the beginning of their journey as members of the SJNY community.
Throughout the ceremony, University leaders reflected on what that journey might hold and encouraged students to take advantage of the people, experiences and opportunities they will encounter along the way.
“Welcome to St. Joe’s,” said Phillip Dehne, Ph.D., executive dean and professor of history. “This is our opening ceremony, which brings you into the University. … I see this Investiture Ceremony as the first part of a bookend, the start of your time here at St. Joe’s.”
The other bookend, Dehne explained, will come several years from now when members of the Class of 2030 return for Commencement. He encouraged students to demonstrate “persistence, determination [and] grit” during the years ahead.
SJNY President Donald R. Boomgaarden, Ph.D., expanded on the idea of Investiture as the first step in a much longer journey.
“You’re being symbolically invested into becoming a part of the St. Joseph’s University community,” Boomgaarden said. “In four years, you’ll be wearing garb very much like this, and you’ll walk across the stage.”
He described that future walk at Commencement as a “liminal experience” — the symbolic act of moving from one stage of life into another. But he reminded students that the transition has already begun.
“Today, you’re walking across that stage, beginning that very first walk,” he said.
Boomgaarden also encouraged students to build relationships with their professors.
“One of the key components of doing well in college is getting to know your professors,” he said. “They may turn out to be really critical in your success in life.”
That emphasis on connection continued with Anna Pennisi, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology, who reminded students they do not need to have their futures completely mapped out.
“We do not necessarily expect you to have all the answers yet and to have it all figured out — not your major, your career, maybe not even what you’re doing this Thursday,” Pennisi said. “After all, this is the beginning of your journey, and we are here to build it together with you.”
Pennisi encouraged students to remain curious, embrace new opportunities and ask for help when they encounter challenges.
“What do we expect? Show up. Be curious,” she said. “When something is not working out … come and tell us. Talk to us.”
Recalling a former international student who overcame academic and personal challenges by seeking advice and embracing opportunities, Pennisi emphasized the importance of making connections.
“We are genuinely excited to get to know you, to learn what drives and motivates you and how we can become a part of your journey,” she said. “Take advantage of the opportunities, reach out to us and ask for more.”
The ceremony also included Jawad Zaman ’27, president of SJNY’s Student Government Association, who led students in reciting the SJNY Student Pledge.
S. Marie Mackey, CSJ, Director of Campus Ministry concluded with a benediction celebrating “a new chapter in the lives of our students” as they begin “the transformative journey of higher education.”
