St. Joseph’s University, New York, recently hosted two vibrant and heartfelt Toast to the Graduates events at its Long Island and Brooklyn campuses, honoring the remarkable accomplishments of the Class of 2024.
Gathered alongside their friends, family, faculty and staff, hundreds of St. Joseph’s graduating seniors commemorated their academic journey and the profound impact they’ve made during their time at the University. The events were highlighted by valedictorian addresses and the presentation of the Donald R. Boomgaarden Leadership in Action Award to a senior at each campus.
“None of our paths these last four years have been identical, nor will they be after we cross that stage,” Melissa Guercio, the Long Island Campus valedictorian, said during an inspiring message to her peers at the campus’ April 25 Toast to the Graduates event in the McGann Conference Center.
“But what we do share is the ability to choose our own futures — to choose a path that will allow us to make a difference in the world,” added Guercio, who has earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry.
Caitlin Caporal, the Brooklyn Campus valedictorian and political science major, encouraged her fellow graduates to embrace the spirit of lifelong learning, remarking at the Brooklyn Campus event held April 23 in the Tuohy Hall auditorium, “Knowledge can come from anyone, anywhere, at any time.” She emphasized the diversity of experiences among her fellow graduates and the potential for mutual growth and understanding.
Story continues below the slideshows.
Brooklyn Toast to the Graduates in Photos
Scroll through the slideshow below to see photos that captured the excitement of the Toast to the Graduates at the Brooklyn Campus.
Long Island Toast to the Graduates in Photos
Scroll through the slideshow below to see photos that captured the excitement of the Toast to the Graduates at the Long Island Campus.
Awarding Leadership in Action
At the Long Island Campus event, Matthew Barbis ’94, a distinguished alumnus and a member of the St. Joseph’s Board of Trustees, presented the esteemed Donald R. Boomgaarden Leadership in Action Award to Pileigh Shahinian. Barbis underscored the significance of the award, stating, “Simply stated, recipients of this award embody the mission and motto of the University, Esse non videri — ‘to be, not to seem.'”
Shahinian, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in English with a concentration in adolescence education, reflected on her journey.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award, which symbolizes the dedication and passion that define the St. Joseph’s community,” she said. Her extensive involvement in campus activities, from founding the Creative Writing Club to serving as president of Sigma Tau Delta, showcased her commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment.
In Brooklyn, Neal Bermas, another member of the Board of Trustees, presented the Donald R. Boomgaarden Leadership in Action Award to Leandra Fernandez, a distinguished child study major.
Reflecting on her journey at St. Joseph’s, Brooklyn Campus senior Irena Grigoryan expressed gratitude for the support she received.
“It’s really making me grateful, to be making my parents proud, to make even myself proud, to become a nurse in this industry,” she said.
Similarly, Alexis Cintron, a child study major, highlighted the welcoming community and academic excellence of St. Joseph’.
“The small class sizes make it easier for us to connect, and the University has so many clubs that you can get involved with,” she said. Cintron’s aspirations to pursue a career in special education underscored the transformative impact of St. Joseph’s holistic approach to education.
“I think all of us kind of found our niche pretty quickly and found people to connect with. And the professors are great!” Cintron added.
