On May 20, Saint Joseph’s celebrated the Commencement of its undergraduate and graduate classes of 2023.
In the morning, student speaker Emily Ash ‘23, an Early Childhood and Elementary Education major, urged students not to close any doors and always welcome new opportunities for growth and understanding.
"We have learned how to be leaders in our own ways. A true leader is focused on their responsibility to not only advance themselves, but advance a group, walking together.” Ash said. “Let’s walk together into this world, as leaders who hold the door open for the people behind us.”
Honorary degree recipient and speaker at the undergraduate ceremony, Marlene Sánchez Dooner ’83, former executive vice president for Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises, spoke to the graduates on growth and seeking help from others as you find the path meant for you.
“Be open to opportunity. There will be people who will see something in you that you can’t see yourself,” Sánchez Dooner said. “Listen to them. And don’t take anything for granted, or assume that only you are responsible for your good fortune.”
In the afternoon, Jacqueline Pochadt ’23 (MS), who earned her degree in educational leadership and administration, spoke to her peers about the importance of taking chances.
“It is essential to remember that the journey is more important than the destination,” Pochadt insisted. “I challenge you to take risks, dream big and embrace failure as a chance to learn, grow and try again.”
Students at the graduate ceremony also heard from honorary degree recipient Bryan H. Carter, president and CEO of Gesu School, who closed out the ceremony urging graduates and guests to reach for the stars.
“There is no limit to how high you can climb or what you can be in life,” Carter said. “And, if a room is without a roof, then God’s light can always shine through to guide your steps.”