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University of Melbourne (Uni Melb) Graduation Gowns

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Our graduation gowns, hoods and mortarboards (trencher caps) are designed to meet the precise academic dress requirements at the University of Melbourne

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University of Melbourne (Uni Melb) Graduation Gowns Graduations

Garment specifications.

We work hard to ensure that our hoods precisely match university regulations and those manufactured by other suppliers. Fabrics are custom dyed to match university colours and we use a broad variety of fabric finishes and weights so our customers blend in seamlessly.

Our gowns are made from a high quality 70% recycled polyester and viscose weave, and are finished in a stylish matte black, conforming to the highest standards of traditional Cambridge style academic dress. The yoke of our gowns is tightly pleated and perfectly spaced.

Our mortarboards are made from a soft black felt material with a ribbon finish arround the base of the cap. A flexible cap and 'secure fit' elastic inside the headband ensure all of our mortarboards are a comfortable fit and stay in place on your graduation day.

*Churchill Gowns is not associated with and does not represent this institution in any way

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Regalia booking.

We recommend reading the university's graduation website for more information: University of Melbourne website . 

How do I book?

• Click on the ' Graduation Booking ' button on  http://unimelb.reedgraduations.com.au/
• Enter your student number (digits only) and date of birth, then click 'Go'
• Complete Step 1 - Graduand Ticket and click 'add to cart'
• Complete Step 2 - Guest Tickets
• Follow the prompts to add other graduation products/services to your cart (Optional)
• Click proceed to checkout
• Login to your Reed Graduation Services account (or sign up if a new user)
• Complete checkout prompts

How will the event work?

In 2023, graduation ceremonies will be the same format as previously-held ceremonies. You will be presented on stage as a graduate, dress in your academic regalia and celebrate with family, friends and your University of Melbourne community. (Ref: University of Melbourne website)

Graduate Research Hub

• Getting started
• Orientation and induction

Welcome to Graduate Research at the University of Melbourne!

At Melbourne we’re here to support you throughout your candidature and to help you make the best start possible.

If you have been directed to this page after receiving an overdue commencement form reminder, the below details will help you complete that form so you can have the best start possible to your degree and your research.

Make a successful start to candidature by...

Attending orientation.

The Graduate Researchers’ Orientation welcomes PhD, Doctorate, Masters by Research and MPhil candidates who are new to the University of Melbourne or a graduate research degree.

Visit the Researcher Development Portal below to learn more about the orientation program and explore career development opportunities designed for you.

Visit the GR Orientation page

Want to get oriented before the next Orientation session? You can access recordings of past sessions in the  Grad Space community in the Learning Management System .

Creating and providing a Unique Student Identifier (USI)

If you haven't yet created and/or provided your Unique Student Identifier (USI) to the University of Melbourne, please visit the Unique Student Identifier student page for information on the steps to create and submit your USI.

Joining the induction in your faculty or department

In addition to orientation, you must attend an induction arranged by your faculty or department. The induction should cover:

• An introduction to your local workspace, facilities, support team and colleagues
• Information about relevant procedures, health and safety practices and training and research practices
• Research and professional development opportunities available to you
• Opportunities to get involved in your academic community.

Completing the Supervisory Agreement

The Supervisory Agreement outlines expectations for graduate researchers and their supervisors. This is a great opportunity for you to discuss and agree on supervision arrangements with your supervisors. The agreement should be downloaded and completed with your supervisors. Once the agreement is complete, it must be attached to your commencement form within the first six months of candidature.

You should then review your supervisory agreement as needed throughout your candidature. Your progress review meetings might be a good time to do this.

Completing your commencement form

Upon enrolment you will be given access to a commencement form that is a checklist that asks you to:

• verify that you understand the mutual commitments from you, your supervisors and the University for your graduate research degree, and;
• you have completed all the necessary training and agreements to effectively commence your research journey.

You are asked to submit this form within the first six months of your candidature.

If you have reviewed the information and completed the training and documentation on this page, you will have fulfilled the requirements for the commencement form.

Completing the foundational safety and researcher training activities

• Relevant health and safety inductions; you will be advised of these by your supervisors or at your local induction
• Research integrity online training (RIOT) via TrainMe
• Obtain an ORCID
• Managing data @ Melbourne online training
• Conflict of Interest

Familiarising yourself with these graduate research policies and guidelines

• Graduate Research Training policy
• Academic Progress Review Policy (Graduate Research)
• Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research and  being a responsible researcher
• Intellectual Property policy and how it relates to your candidature
• The University’s policies on  authorship and  conflict of interest frameworks
• University policy and guidelines on  academic integrity

Learning how to manage your candidature and develop your skills

• The Graduate Research Hub , where you will find guides for all stages of your candidature
• Get set up using the resources for candidates
• Consider booking a research consultation with Library Services
• You’re now part of the Grad Space community . Check out this online resource for information on support services, professional development programs, and more
• Skills development opportunities including  PhD Programs
• Follow your local communications for news about seminars and events related to your research and to stay up to date with your school or department

Finding friends and staying well

• Learn about networking groups and activities provided by the  Graduate Student Association
• Visit the  University of Melbourne Student Union for special interest clubs, arts, representation, advocacy and cultural services
• Learn about Health and Wellbeing Services and Support Services
• Resources for candidates
• Mapping my degree
• Principles for infrastructure support
• Peer activities
• Change my commencement date
• Meeting expectations
• Working with my supervisors
• Responsible Research & Research Integrity
• Guidelines for external supervisors
• Pre-confirmation
• Confirmation
• At risk of unsatisfactory progress
• Unsatisfactory progress
• Add or drop coursework subjects
• Apply for leave
• Return from leave
• Apply for Study Away
• Return from Study Away
• Change my study rate
• Check my candidature status
• Change my current supervisors
• Request an evidence of enrolment or evidence of qualification statement
• Change my project details
• Change department
• Transfer to another graduate research degree
• Late submission
• Withdraw from my research degree
• Check the status of a request
• Re-enrolment
• Advice on requesting changes
• Extension of candidature
• Lapse candidature
• How to cancel a form in my.unimelb
• Resolving issues
• Taking leave
• About Study Away
• Finishing on time
• Accepting an offer for a joint PhD online
• Tenured Study Spaces (TSS) Usage Guidelines
• Tenured Study Spaces Procedures
• Research skills
• Academic writing and communication skills
• Building professional and academic networks
• Research internships
• Commercialising my research
• Supplementary PhD Programs
• Writing my thesis
• Examples of thesis and chapter formats when including publications
• Thesis with creative works
• Research Integrity in my Thesis
• Graduate researchers and digital assistance tools
• TES Statuses
• Submitting my thesis
• Depositing multiple components for your final thesis record
• The Chancellor's Prize
• TES Graduate Researcher FAQs
• Career planning
• Publishing my research
• Getting support
• Key graduate research contacts
• Melbourne Research Experience Survey
• Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT)
• Current Students

• Faculty of Arts
• Study with us
• Graduate research

Study Graduate Research

Our programs.

The Faculty of Arts attracts high-achieving graduate students who benefit from working with internationally recognised scholars and their global networks. The University is a premier institution that is ranked 37 in the world (Times Higher Education 2024).

Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar & Shorter Thesis)

The Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) provides you the flexibility to pursue an area of humanities and social sciences that interests you.

This program is only available in the Philosophy discipline.

Master of Arts (Thesis only)

If you want to develop specialised knowledge in one or more areas that interest you, the Master of Arts (Thesis Only) provides you with an advanced understanding of the major issues experienced in your chosen field.

This program is not available for students in the School of Social and Political Science.

Doctor of Philosophy – Arts

The Doctor of Philosophy – Arts – also known as a PhD or Doctorate – is the highest Arts degree offered by the University of Melbourne. You will complete a compulsory coursework component and undertake supervised research under the direction of a supervisory team of experts in the field.

Application dates

The Faculty of Arts only accepts applications for Graduate Research study to commence in Semester One. No mid-year intake is offered.

We offer two rounds of applications for our graduate research programs for commencement in the following year. Applications for admission to a graduate research program must be submitted in full before the closing date. We recommend you submit your application at least four weeks before the closing dates. This gives you some extra time in case you are required to provide any additional documents.

You will be automatically considered for the  Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships as part of the graduate research course application.

Application outcomes will be available approximately eight weeks after the application closing date.

*International applicants

• To be considered for the  Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships we strongly recommend you submit a complete course application before 31 August . The majority international Graduate Research Scholarships are awarded in September;
• If you are successful in obtaining a scholarship, you must commence your course by the first day of Semester 1 of the academic year you have been made an offer for;
• Please ensure you have allowed adequate time for your student visa application to be processed between your admittance into the course and the last date you can start your course;
• You must provide evidence that you meet the University of Melbourne English Language requirements by the application closing date.

How to apply

Step 1: check your eligibility.

Please check if you are eligible for consideration by viewing our  entry requirements before you proceed further. The Faculty of Arts offers three research degrees:

• Doctor of Philosophy – Arts (PhD)
• Master of Arts (Thesis Only) – not available to students in the School of Social and Political Sciences
• Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) – Philosophy only

Need help? Use the below Checklist to help you determine if you are eligible.

Pre-Application Checklist

Check that you meet the  University’s English Language requirements .

If you do not meet the minimum entry requirements for direct entry into our graduate research degrees, you may wish to consider undertaking the Graduate Diploma in Arts (Advanced) as a pathway into Graduate Research.

For further information about graduate pathways please email Arts Graduate Admissions .

To be considered for entry to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) you must demonstrate that you meet the following criteria:

• Completion of at least a four-year Bachelors (Hons) degree and/or a Master’s degree equivalent to the University of Melbourne’s H2A (75%+) standard; and
• A degree that is in a discipline relevant to your intended PhD; and
• A substantial research component that accounts for at least 25% of one year’s work at 4 th year or masters’ level, with a minimum result of H1 (80%) University of Melbourne equivalent.

To be considered for entry to a Master of Arts (Thesis Only) or Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) you must demonstrate that you meet the following criteria:

• Completion of at least a four-year Bachelors (Hons) degree and/or a Master’s degree equivalent to the University of Melbourne’s H2B (70%+) standard; and
• A substantial research component that accounts for at least 25% of one year’s work at 4 th year or masters’ level, with a minimum result of H2A (75%) University of Melbourne equivalent.

Step 2: Finding a supervisor

Before you submit an application online, you must have obtained written support of an academic supervisor in the Faculty of Arts for your proposed research project.

You can look for potential supervisors by:

• Exploring our current research degree opportunities page to discover projects recruiting students

Find current Research Degree opportunities at Arts

• Searching the University’s Find an Expert directory and contact a potential supervisor directly with your research proposal

Search the Find an Expert directory

• Browse the Faculty of Arts School websites to understand their research strengths and contact a potential supervisor from their people page.

Please note: if you do not receive a response from a supervisor within five working days, send a follow up email to the contact email address listed on their Find An Expert profile page. If you do not receive a response within two weeks, consider contacting another supervisor.

When contacting a potential supervisor, you should include:

Guideline for Creative Writing Proposals

The creative PhD at the University of Melbourne is developed and marked as a single thesis, with two major elements: a dissertation and a creative work.

Each part usually contributes 50% to the overall word count. It is possible to increase the dissertation above 50%, but the creative work cannot be more than 50%.

One way to understand the unity of the creative PhD thesis is to consider that there is one overarching research question or hypothesis, which is approached within the thesis in two different manners, a scholarly one and a creative one.

The dissertation is not an exegesis. The dissertation does not offer a commentary on the creative processes or the intentions of the writer. The dissertation is intended to stand independently as a scholarly work making an original contribution to its field or discipline. In creative writing, this field is often interdisciplinary, but it can be characterised as a discipline interested in writerly questions, that is questions that take into account creativity, creative processes, the decision-making that goes into a creative text, cultural and technological influences on writing, questions of genre boundaries (including emerging genres, hybrid genres), and questions that address issues in conceiving of writing as a craft. This is a broad description and it is not exhaustive, but it does indicate that most dissertations are investigating aspects of the act of writing.

In your proposal you should make it clear what your research question is, and how this question fits with or responds to an ongoing critical discourse. You should identify the fields or disciplines you will draw upon, what models of analysis you will adopt, and what critical and creative texts you wish to discuss in your dissertation.

The creative work will need to be articulated in your proposal with some detail, understanding that as with all creative works there will be room for re-considerations and re-drafting. You should show how your creative work addresses or arises from your research question.

Your proposal should include an indicative list of the texts you will consult.

Step 3: Submit an application

Please be aware that m eeting the minimum entry requirements or having strong supervisor support does not guarantee admission to the course. All applications are subject to approval of the Faculty's selection committee.

To submit an application, please visit the online application portal:

• Domestic applications
• International applications

Search for the course code to start an application:

• DR-PHILART for Doctor of Philosophy – Arts
• MR-ARTSTHS for Master of Arts (Thesis Only)
• MR-ARTSAST for Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) – Philosophy only

Please also note the following study package mode

• International applicants - select ‘PG Overseas Fee Paying’
• Domestic applicants - select  ‘RTP / RTS / CTS’
• Attendance mode: select 'On Campus'
• Study mode: select 'Standard'.

Once you've submitted your application, you will receive an email stating that your application has been received. If your application is incomplete, you will receive an email requesting additional documents.

Assessment of your application will only commence once you have provided all required documents. To avoid delay in the assessment of your application, ensure you follow the online application instructions carefully and upload all the required documents.

If you have submitted a complete application before the closing dates for any round, you will receive an outcome by the relevant date outlined above.

You will be asked to submit the following documents with your online application:

• A copy of an email or letter indicating that your nominated supervisor's agreement to supervise you should your application be successful;
• A current CV outlining your all complete and incomplete academic qualifications and work experience, and details of any research publications (if relevant)
• If your last qualification completed (overall or thesis component) is marked on a pass/fail basis, provide a copy of the examiner's report and complete the Academic Report of Ungraded Thesis Form.
• If you are still studying, you can apply now before completing your degree by including current transcripts of at least up to the first semester of your final year studies.
• Students apply from a University of Melbourne Honours or Master program do not need to submit transcripts.
• A 2,500-word research proposal
• A 5,000-word writing sample

More information

Ensure both research proposal and writing sample documents are labelled with your name, the School to which you are applying and the date.

To support your application, you will need to nominate two referees who can comment on your academic ability and research potential. We recommend that at least one report from someone who has supervised your thesis/dissertation or research work.

All referee reports must be submitted using the online tool. On submission of your application, your referees will be emailed a link to access the online referee form and they must provide their references using this online form. You will be notified when they submit the reference. Your application may be deemed as incomplete if the referee reports are not submitted before the application closing dates.

Please note: students who have completed honours or a master degree through the University of Melbourne need only to provide two University of Melbourne referee contacts, and are exempt from providing referee reports.

If you have a completed a thesis or research component that is marked on a pass/fail basis, provide a copy of the thesis. The examiner’s report and an Academic Report of Ungraded Thesis Form . Send the form to the most senior academic staff involved in the assessment of your thesis/research component and request them to complete and return the form before the deadline of the round that you are applying for.

You will be automatically considered for the  Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships when you apply for the course. No separate application is required.

Please note: In order to be eligible for consideration for a Graduate Research Scholarship, applicants must have met the University of Melbourne English Language requirements by the application closing date.

Other scholarships

• Domestic students experiencing compassionate or compelling circumstances (including illness, disability, care responsibilities or personal hardship), may be eligible to apply for the Fay Marles Scholarship or the Frederick Blake Shepherd Scholarship . Applications close on 31 October.
• Human Rights Scholarship
• Hansen Scholarship in History
• For all other scholarships please follow the relevant application instructions and complete the scholarship application section in the online form.

If your application is successful, you will receive an offer letter by email. Please read your course offer closely and accept your offer online by following the instructions in your offer letter.  To accept your scholarship offer, follow the instructions in your scholarship offer letter.

If you are successful in obtaining an offer for a place, you must complete your enrolment and commence your course by the first day of Semester 1 .

All commencing graduate researchers are invited to an Orientation Welcome Session before the start of the semester. At this session you’ll be introduced to your Graduate School, learn about our facilities and services, and get a chance to meet coordinators and peers from your program. For more information please visit the Faculty of Arts Orientation and Induction web page.

Graduate Researchers completing a Doctor of Philosophy – Arts degree are required to complete 4 coursework subjects in the first year. For more information about coursework requirements and candidature management please visit the Faculty of Arts Graduate Research web page.

Transferring students apply through the same application process as new applicants. Please note, however, that the ability of students to transfer into the Doctor of Philosophy – Arts has been severely limited because of the requirement to complete the PhD coursework in the first year prior to confirmation. Your application will be assessed based on your ability to meet our degree requirements and complete your course in a timely manner. Please ensure that if you are considering a transfer from your current course that you discuss the following with a nominated supervisor:

• Reasons - what are the reasons for transferring?
• Confirmation - have you met your current university's Confirmation requirements?
• PhD Coursework – If you have not been confirmed in your current candidature, how will you complete the Arts PhD coursework component before Confirmation?
• Completion - do you have a plan for completion of your course within 3 years from the initial enrolment date when you started your current research degree? You will also need to provide evidence of satisfactory progress in your current program.
• Residency requirements - will you be able to meet the University of Melbourne's residency requirement if your transfer is successful?

Domestic students who are admitted in a graduate research degrees will receive a Research Training Program Fee Offset Scholarship to acknowledge the contribution from the Australian Government towards the cost of their tuition. Learn more about the RTP Fee Offset Scholarship and  Graduate Research Scholarships

International students should consult the Study Fees web page for details about calculating your fees, the cost of living in Melbourne, and the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

For more information about fees please visit the Students Fees web page.

All candidates must have a plan that includes spending at least one-third of their candidature on campus. The residency requirement is deemed especially important during the period of probationary candidature and while completing the PhD coursework component.  Please note that the University does not offer entirely distance or online supervision. Throughout your candidature, it is expected that you will attend the University to fully benefit from planning, conducting and writing up your research. This on campus presence is essential for fostering a vibrant research culture and cultivating a sense of belonging within your respective school’s research community.

For more information on residency requirements please see the Melbourne Policy Library Selection and Admission Policy (MPF1295) .

To support you in your studies you should bring your own laptop for University use. Some of our shared workstations are equipped with monitors and power sockets to allow you to connect your own device to the University network for internet access and printing facilities.

Frequently asked questions

Need more information, refer to our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Personalise your experience

Graduate Research

Doctor of Education

• Course code:   300BB

Course overview

The Doctor of Education is a research doctorate for experienced professionals with educational responsibilities. Carefully designed to build the knowledge and skills necessary for research at the doctoral level through a tailored coursework program, the course enables experienced educators to design and carry out research projects that have direct relevance to their professional role.

Coursework and thesis requirements

Successful completion requires a combination of coursework (100 credit points) and a 55 000 word thesis, which comprises a substantial piece of original research.

Internationally recognised lecturers

We're home to a number of internationally recognised education experts, and at the cutting edge of teaching and research.

Related study areas

• General studies in education

Graduate Study Expo

Thursday, 9 May

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Featured articles

Research and innovation

At the University of Melbourne, our research and education contributes to global efforts to solve the climate and biodiversity crises and build a sustainable future for the planet. Explore what our researchers are doing to create a better climate future, how we’re collaborating with innovation partners and discover some of the big ideas shaping the global sustainability agenda.

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Study in a place like no other

The University of Melbourne is a truly unique environment. We’re creating a range of sustainable facilities and precincts to enable ground-breaking discoveries, now and into the future.

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Our campuses

Our historic Parkville campus is at the heart of three globally recognised innovation precincts. Six specialist campuses across Victoria provide immersive education in life sciences and agriculture.

Research facilities

Where our researchers are working on humanity’s most critical problems and complex questions facing the world. The University’s research infrastructure network supports innovation in Australia and internationally.

Libraries, museums, galleries and collections

Our diverse museums and galleries – from the Ian Potter Museum of Art to the new Science Gallery Melbourne – provide access to the knowledge, research and culture curated at the University.

Accommodation

Living on-campus means you can immerse yourself in our University community. Accommodation at Melbourne varies from apartment-style halls of residence to traditional college accommodation.

Partner with us for the future

It all begins with the seed of an idea. Imagine what we can do, together. Find out how we’re connecting with industry and government.

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An innovation and collaboration community

Melbourne Connect brings leading researchers, investors, start-ups, students and artists together in a new purpose-built innovation precinct.

Our bold new engineering and design campus

A major urban renewal project is set to become the University’s newest precinct. It’s a globally connected hub where industry, government and community will come together to transform education, engineering and design innovation.

Partnering for parity in Greater Shepparton

The University of Melbourne is working with Indigenous, state and local government partners to create a centre for excellence in education, wellbeing, Indigenous business and culture.

A partnership to power genomics research

The Illumina-University of Melbourne Genomics Hub will transform the health outcomes for all Australians by delivering first-hand, practical experience, fostering a pipeline of commercially focused genomics innovation projects.

UC celebrates record graduating class at commencement

Uc kicks off three days of ceremonies at fifth third arena.

The University of Cincinnati celebrated its largest graduating class in its 205-year history during three days of commencement ceremonies.

Thousands of friends and family filled Fifth Third Arena on Friday for the first two undergraduate ceremonies.  UC on Thursday celebrated its doctoral hooding and master's recognition ceremony.

Commencement concludes with a third undergraduate ceremony 10 a.m. Saturday. Tickets are required for all guests. The arena allows only clear plastic bags.

In his commencement address, UC President Neville Pinto noted that the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced the cancellation of many high school graduations across the country.

“I recognize that for some of you, this is your first graduation ceremony,” he said. “So I want you to have a fun and enjoy this for both graduations.”

Pinto quoted 1980s cultural icon Ferris Bueller in urging graduates to embrace the important things: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

Pinto told graduates to make time for themselves to think and reflect — moments of mental rest that creative geniuses from Albert Einstein to Lin Manuel Miranda credit for their greatest inspirations.

And he closed with the abiding philosophy of writer Henry David Thoreau, who spent two years contemplating the world from a tiny cabin next to a Massachusetts pond: “ I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, to discover that I had not lived.”

Miss the ceremony? Watch it here

Find the commencement program or watch the livestream of the four ceremonies that make up UC's largest-ever commencement.

President Neville Pinto addresses students during UC's Doctoral Hooding and Master's Recognition Ceremony at Fifth Third Arena. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

About the spring class of 2024

UC will confer 7,521 degrees to 7,391 students this weekend. (Some students are earning multiple degrees.) Both represent new records dating back two centuries at UC for a single graduating class, based on preliminary figures from UC's Office of Institutonal Research.

UC will award 539 associate degrees, 4,549 baccalaureate degrees, 252 doctoral degrees, 1,886 master’s degrees, 3 micro-credentials and 292 professional certificates.

This year 15% of graduates are first-generation college students. And 210 students come from Cincinnati Public Schools. Nearly 3% of grads are U.S. veterans or dependents of veterans.

New this year, three students will graduate from UC’s micro-credentialing program as electronic health records specialists. UC also will celebrate its first spring graduating class in the new master’s of legal studies program.

The spring class of 2024 has the largest-ever percentage of master’s and doctoral graduates, representing more than 28% of graduates. And nearly 15% of grads participated through distance learning programs.

Graduates hail from 84 of Ohio’s 88 counties, a new record. They come from all 50 states and 81 countries as far away as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, the Philippines and Japan.

Women represent 56% of the spring class of 2024. And 57 grads will celebrate their birthday during the three days of commencement.

Undergraduate student speaker Ritika Joshi from UC's College of Engineering and Applied Science tells graduates that they will always be united as Bearcats. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

Marking milestones

In her student address to undergraduates, UC College of Engineering and Applied Science graduate Ritika Joshi said her classmates all belong to a special community.

“Each of us has embarked on our own wild ride, navigating twists, turns and unexpected detours to arrive on this incredible day,” she said. “Here we are today, united as Bearcats and bound by our victories. ”

Joshi, a computer science major, referenced UC's motto, Juncta Juvant , or strength through unity.

“UC has prepared us for the global stage with the empowering mantra Next Lives Here by providing transformative co-ops, global opportunities, cutting-edge research and lifelong connections through student organizations,” she said. “We are eternally grateful for these invaluable experiences.”

President Neville Pinto honors UC College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services Dean Lawrence Johnson with the President's Award for Excellence during commencement. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

Notable awards

Pinto surprised UC College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services Dean Lawrence Johnson with the President's Award for Excellence. Pinto said it marks just the fourth such award he has presented during his seven years as president.

“I consider it the highest honor that I can bestow as a president,” Pinto said. 

Under Johnson, the college has seen its enrollment triple in size over the past two decades.

Johnson is known to many at UC for hosting an annual back-to-school barbecue on UC's Uptown Campus. Pinto announced that the site of those welcome-back parties is now called the Lawrence J. Johnson Lawn. 

“What we will miss most about you doesn't come from your kitchen. It comes from your heart,” Pinto said. “It is your leadership, your compassion and your love for learning.”

Pinto also recognized graduates Shelby Hetzer, Mia Morales and Rebekah Littlepage, recipients of UC's Presidential Leadership Medal of Student Excellence. This year's other recipients are Lance Entsuah, Gibin Mannathikulathil Raju and Maya Goertemoeller.

UC graduate Cesseli Chambers-Thacker delivers the student address at UC's Doctoral Hooding and Master's Recognition Ceremony. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

Bearcat pride

Carl H. Lindner College of Business graduate Cesseli Chambers-Thacker presented the student address to her classmates during the Doctoral Hooding and Master's Recognition Ceremony.

“Some of us are the first in our families to reach this milestone while others come from a long line of scholars,” she said.

“Though our paths may differ, they converge at this triumphant moment of unity. We stand together not only as graduates but as resilient individuals and architects of change, laying a foundation for a just and sustainable global society,” she said.

“At the University of Cincinnati, 'Next Lives Here,' which means we are next. Congratulations, Bearcats! We did it.”

UC College-Conservatory of Music student Jadyn Riggs sang the national anthem and led graduates in the singing of the Alma Mater backed by the UC Bearcat Band.

Some graduates of UC's College of Engineering and Applied Science wear decorated hardhats to commencement. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

Making up for lost time

UC graduates such as Raya Fitch missed out on celebrating their high school graduations in 2020 after the pandemic prompted the cancellation of public events.

Fitch studied political science in UC's College of Arts and Sciences. She said it was important both to her and her family to celebrate her accomplishments together in person now that they could.

“It means a lot to me,” she said. 

UC Blue Ash nursing student Madeline Martin posed for photos for her family in the plaza outside Fifth Third Arena. She and her classmates likewise missed out on her high school graduation in 2020, she said.

“I didn't get to walk in graduation, so this is extra special," she said.

“She got her diploma from the principal in her driveway," her mom added.

UC grads take a selfie during commencement. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

UC graduates celebrate commencement at Fifth Third Arena. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

UC's graduating Bearcat, a two-time national champion, hugs the incoming Bearcat. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

Confetti falls from the rafters during commencement Friday at Fifth Third Arena. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

The UC Bearcat helps graduates celebrate commencement. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

A UC grad waves to supporters from the floor of Fifth Third Arena. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

UC Professor Brian Howe records his colleague and UC College of Law graduate Kanisha Ervin, who worked with him as a postdoctoral fellow on the Ohio Innocence Project before earning her master's degree this week in public administration. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

UC students sing the Alma Mater at the conclusion of commencement at Fifth Third Arena. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

Carl H. Lindner College of Business graduate Ejiro Agoba recites an original poem to classmates for commencement. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

UC is celebrating its largest-ever spring commencement. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

UC students take photos during commencement. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand

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USC celebrates newest graduates

More than 8,600 students will graduate across usc system.

The University of South Carolina will welcome thousands of new alumni from across the system in a series of commencement ceremonies beginning April 26, 2024. The three ceremonies recognizing bachelor’s, master’s and professional degree recipients begin on May 3, 2024 at the Colonial Life Arena. President Michael Amiridis will deliver remarks at all three.

At 3 p.m. Friday, May 3, USC will award 2,237 degrees to students from the College of Pharmacy, Arnold School of Public Health, College of Nursing and the Darla Moore School of Business. Honorary degrees will be presented to former university president Harris Pastides and former first lady Patricia Moore-Pastides.

A 9:30 a.m. ceremony on Saturday, May 4, will include 1,947 graduates of the South Carolina Honors College, College of Arts and Sciences and College of Information and Communications, who will be joined by honorary degree recipient Ainsley Earhardt, a prominent media personality and broadcast journalist.

The final ceremony will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday for 1,687 graduates of the College of Education, Interdisciplinary Studies, College of Engineering and Computing, College of Social Work, College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management, School of Music and Palmetto College. Solomon Jackson Jr., a veteran pastor and philanthropist, will receive an honorary degree, as will Harry McKinley Lightsey III, the secretary of commerce for South Carolina.

Other Columbia campus activities include:

• The Joseph F. Rice School of Law commencement ceremony at 9 a.m. Friday, May 3 at the historic Horseshoe. Law Dean William Hubbard will give remarks. Clifton Newman, retired S.C. Circuit Court judge, will receive an honorary degree and give a commencement address.
• The commencement ceremony for both Schools of Medicine at noon Friday, May 3 at the Koger Center. Dr. Willie Underwood III, physician and health policy expert, will receive an honorary degree and give a commencement address.
• The doctoral hooding ceremony at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 4 at the Koger Center. Arnold School of Public Health Dean Thomas Chandler will deliver remarks.

Other system commencements include:

• USC Salkehatchie : 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 26.
• USC Beaufort : 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 26. Richard (Dick) Stewart, an entrepreneur, environmentalist and philanthropist, will receive an honorary degree and give remarks.
• USC Lancaster : 11 a.m. Saturday, April 27. Walter Collins, Palmetto College executive vice chancellor of academic and student affairs and associate provost, will give remarks.
• USC Union : 4 p.m. Saturday, April 27. Nancy Comer, USC Union advocate and nursing professional, will give remarks.
• USC Upstate: 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 30. Russell Booker, CEO of the Spartanburg Academic Movement, will receive an honorary degree and give remarks.
• USC Sumter: 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 1. Melinda A. B. Carr, chair of the Palmetto College Board of Visitors, will give remarks.
• USC Aiken: 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 1. S.C. Senator Shane Massey will give remarks.

Overall, more than 8,600 students will graduate from the University of South Carolina system. South Carolina graduates by the numbers:

• Columbia – 6,802
• Aiken – 416
• Beaufort – 313
• Upstate – 721
• Lancaster – 144
• Salkehatchie – 91
• Sumter – 99

For more information, visit the university’s commencement website .  

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Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez, D.D. to Deliver Villanova University’s 2024 Commencement Address

Archbishop Pérez will be awarded an honorary degree at the May 17 Commencement Ceremony

VILLANOVA, Pa. (April 25, 2024) –   The Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, Villanova University President, announced that Philadelphia Archbishop the Most Revered Nelson J. Pérez, D.D., will address the Class of 2024 as the University’s commencement speaker. Archbishop Pérez will also receive the degree of Doctor of Sacred Letters, honoris causa. The University’s 181 st commencement will be held Friday, May 17, at 2:30 p.m., in Villanova Stadium. In the event of severe weather, the ceremony will be held indoors in the Finneran Pavilion.

Note: For the livestream of Commencement, click here .

About Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.

Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D., was appointed as the 14th Bishop and 10th Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia by Pope Francis in January 2020. Archbishop Pérez's pastoral vision, rooted in Pope Francis' Apostolic Exhortation "The Joy of the Gospel," can be summarized as, "Church on Mission: Proactive, Involved, Supportive, Fruitful, and Joyful."

Archbishop Pérez has strong ties to the Philadelphia area, with over two decades of experience and work in the region. He earned two master's degrees at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood and was ordained as a priest for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1989. His first assignment after ordination to the priesthood was as parochial vicar of Saint Ambrose Parish in Philadelphia. He later served as Pastor of Saint William Parish in Philadelphia and Saint Agnes Parish in West Chester. Committed to education, Archbishop Pérez has taught courses at LaSalle University and Saint Charles Seminary.

Archbishop Pérez was born in Miami, Fla., and grew up in a Cuban neighborhood in West New York, N.J. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Montclair State University in 1983.

During his time in the priesthood, Archbishop Pérez has strengthened relations with Latino communities across the region. He served as the Episcopal Vicar for Hispanic Ministry, overseeing 54 parishes with pastoral ministry to Hispanics, as well as Formation Programs and Ecclesial Movements.

Archbishop Pérez has also served in various positions within the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. He was the Chair of the Bishops' Standing Committee on Cultural Diversity, chaired the Bishops' Sub-Committee for Hispanic Affairs, and served as the lead Bishop for the V Encuentro process for the USCCB. He also served as a member of the Bishops' Sub-Committee for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development and on the Administrative and the Religious Liberty Committees for the USCCB.

In 1998, Archbishop Pérez was named Chaplain to His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, with the title of Monsignor. In 2009, he was named a Prelate of Honor by Pope Benedict XVI. Three years later, he was appointed as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, N.Y., and was ordained as a Bishop. As the Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, Bishop Pérez served as Episcopal Vicar for the Eastern Vicariate, representing the Diocesan Ordinary. In 2017, Pope Francis appointed Bishop Pérez as the 11th Bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland.

Currently, Archbishop Pérez serves as the bishop liaison for the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM) and he was appointed to the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He also presently serves as the Chair of the Board of Catholic Relief Services.

About Villanova University: Since 1842, Villanova University’s Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition has been the cornerstone of an academic community in which students learn to think critically, act compassionately and succeed while serving others. There are more than 10,000 undergraduate, graduate and law students in the University's six colleges—the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Villanova School of Business, the College of Engineering, the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, the College of Professional Studies and the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law. Ranked among the nation’s top universities, Villanova supports its students’ intellectual growth and prepares them to become ethical leaders who create positive change everywhere life takes them. For more, visit  www.villanova.edu .

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• University of Melbourne Doctoral Graduation Gown Set - Gown, Hood and

University of Melbourne Doctoral Graduation Gown Set - Gown, Hood and Bonnet

• Certified Australian-made, tailored by us in Melbourne.
• Select from superfine wool, wool/poly blend or polyester base fabrics.
• Fabrics selected by us for the perfect weight and drape of academic dress.
• Quality garment construction techniques and reinforced hand-pleating.
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• Gowns sent to you with a complimentary robe bag for garment care.

All our academic dress is made to university specifications.  We guarantee the quality of our garments and after-sales service.

University of Melbourne Doctoral regalia consists of a cherry red gown with sleeve linings and facings in faculty colour. The black velvet bonnet has a red cord and tassels.

Images include Doctor of Education (malachite green), Doctor of Science (olive green), Doctor of Medicine (cardinal red) and Doctor of Health Science (petunia) regalia.

Select your faculty in drop-down below to nominate the lining and facing colour.

Due to popular demand, our website now caters for international orders.

Refer to the tabs below for information regarding gown sizing, headwear sizing, our fabric types and garment care advice.

Our family have been making regalia for 75 years. Thank-you for supporting Australian made.

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Fabric Types

Our most popular and affordable gown fabric. Lightweight, easily worn over clothing, comfortable in both humid and cool climates. Matt-finish for a smart, dignified look. 170gsm, selected by us for the perfect weight and drape of academic dress.

Wool/Poly Blend

Generally 70% wool and 30% polyester blend. Matt-finish for a smart, dignified look. Selected by us for the perfect weight and drape of academic dress. Blends can be heavier than our polyester or superfine wool depending on availability. Just ask us for assistance regarding wool/poly blend when placing your order.

Superfine Wool

A favorite for academics and professionals. A superior choice of fabric. Select 100% superfine 'cool' wool. Excellent breatheability and lightweight. Comfortable in all conditions. Feels wonderfully smooth and soft to the touch, drapes perfectly. Matt-finish for a smart, dignified look.

Gown sizing is determined by your height (floor to top of head). If you are in-between sizes, we recommend the larger size. Gowns are worn open at the front and are very loose-fitting, so don't worry about the waistline - just go by your height!

Head size is head circumference taken above the eyebrows and ears. Use a tape measure.

*Soft cap mortar boards are slightly elasticised with a little room between sizes. If you are in-between sizes, we recommend the larger size. ie: if you measure 57.5cms, choose a size large.  Head sizing can be tricky. You are welcome to exchange size within 7 days of receiving. 

We use Australia Post for domestic orders and DHL express for international orders. The charges below include shipping and handling $AUD.  

Prices may be subject to change without notice.

Domestic shipping: refer to Australia post for delivery time estimates. Australia post no longer guarantee delivery time frames. Use the tracking number provided to track your parcel on the Australia post website. If there is reason to believe your parcel has gone missing, contact us for assistance. Do not assume that selecting express post means your order will be dispatched within a few days. A lot of our regalia is made to order. Refer lead time tab.

International shipping: international freight is expensive however we only use DHL express for reliability, speed and security. Additional freight charges may apply if your order is unusually large. We will contact you if additional freight charges may apply. Our international freight charges do not include any duties or taxes at your end.

If you would like your regalia for a particular ceremony date, contact us to ask about availability.

Please be aware that most regalia is bespoke and tailor made. We have a made-to-order, small-batch production cycle.

We aim to fulfil all orders within a reasonable time frame, however lead times can be situational, seasonal and will vary depending on our production schedule. 

Please do not assume that by selecting express post that your order will be dispatched within a few days. We are not a pick-and-pack warehouse. 

Please do not assume that we know you want your regalia in time for a ceremony, that we know the date of your ceremony, or that you will receive your regalia in time for your ceremony (refer points below). We recommend having a contingency plan; hire or borrow regalia from a friend, a colleague or your institution.

We cannot control shipping time once a parcel leaves our premises (see shipping tab). 

Some things that are out of our control may delay production. We take all steps necessary to avoid delays but materials and deliveries delay, staff shortages, machine malfunctions, and natural disasters are out of our control. 

Putting pressure on our staff will not make your order be processed more quickly. We do not tolerate unreasonable, impatient or aggressive behaviour.

We thank you for your patience and understanding as our production team work hard to try to meet everyone's requirements. 

Participating in a University ceremony where your award will be conferred?

The following information applies to customers who want to purchase their regalia to wear at a university ceremony where the award relevant to this regalia is being conferred. Please see this page  https://www.ghlilley.com.au/pages/university-ceremony

Be sure to follow the laundering instructions on the care label of your garment. 

Our garments come to you pressed and ready-to-wear with minimal creasing from freight. However, we do recommend hanging your garment when not in use and if required, gently iron or steam your robe. (Do not put an iron directly onto any satin lining or facing!)

Every George H Lilley Regalia gown comes with a complimentry robe bag. We recommend using this bag for storeage and travel. Allowing your garment to air regularly will assist to keep your gown in best condition.

Particular care is required if your garment has satin linings or facings. In this case, we recommend that your academic regalia is worn in ceremonies only. Avoid eating or drinking while wearing your regalia as the satin may stain. Take care when handling as pinning or your fingernails could damage the fabric.

If at any time you are not sure on the best of care for your garment then please contact us, the manufacturer, for advice.

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Event information

Everything you need to know about your graduation ceremony including the schedule, venue access, regalia, your moment on stage, post-ceremony celebrations and guest information.

Ceremony schedule

We recommend you familiarise yourself with the ceremony schedule to ensure your day goes smoothly.

Select your ceremony start time to  view the schedule for your ceremony. It is essential that you arrive on time for registration and gowning.

10.00am 11.00am 2.00pm 5.00pm 6.00pm

Graduation venue – royal exhibition building.

All December graduation ceremonies will be held at the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens, a World Heritage Listed landmark. The Royal Exhibition Building at Carlton Gardens is a 15–20 minute walk from the Parkville campus.

Your ticket will need to be scanned for entry to the venue.

The venue is well serviced by public transport, with numerous options available including trams, trains and buses (refer to the map for detailed information). If you’re driving, you may wish to park opposite the venue at Melbourne Museum.

Find out more about parking and public transport options .

Venue maps Conditions of entry

Mobility assistance and venue access

Graduates with accessibility requirements.

If you are a graduate requiring any access or support assistance during the ceremony (such as mobility requirements), then please contact the Graduations Team when you RSVP (at least 3 days prior to your ceremony) to discuss your needs. You will also be able to note any accessibility requests when booking your tickets and regalia online. We will ensure that arrangements are in place for you and your guests.

Venue access

The Nicholson Street entrance is the only accessible entrance for guests due to the stairs on the Rathdowne Street entrance. Please see the venue map above for accessible entries, lift access and bathrooms.  The post-event function and refreshments will be held on the gallery level and are accessible via the lifts.

Ceremony seating

Ushers are available to seat you and your guests before other guests if you use a wheelchair, walker, frame or cane, are vision impaired, or have difficulty in crowded spaces. Please enter the venue when doors open (see your ceremony schedule for exact times) and ushers will be able to assist you.

Your regalia

When you arrive, make your way to the regalia marquee on the south side of the building to register and be gowned. Please present your graduate ticket when you come to collect your regalia. The person gowning you will make sure your gown and hat are the right size. Our graduation staff will also ensure that your regalia is positioned correctly before you walk across the stage.

Regalia must be returned to the collection point within two hours after the conclusion of your ceremony. Regalia cannot be returned during the ceremony.

Booking your ticket and gown

During the ceremony

During the ceremony you are permitted to take photos using a smartphone from your seat (just not while being presented on stage).

Ushers will be available to guide guests and students to the bathroom, parents room or prayer room as required. All guests and graduates are expected to be respectful and remain in their seats until the end of the ceremony, even after you have been presented on stage.

Your moment on stage

Bachelor/Master degrees

• When it is nearly your turn to be presented, you will be ushered from your allocated seat and directed towards the presentation point on the stage.
• Your name will be called and you will come forward to be presented as a new graduate.
• To acknowledge the Dean or presenting officer, “doff” (nod and pinch the front of your trencher).
• You will receive a presentation tube onstage.
• Exit the stage via the central stairs and return to your seat.

PhD/Higher doctoral degrees

• PhD and Higher Doctoral graduates take part in the academic procession as part of the formal ceremony. Because of this, there is slightly different information for you to be aware of regarding your ceremony schedule , the academic procession and your moment on stage . Please refer to specific information for PhD and higher doctoral graduates .

Photography during the ceremony

Once you have entered the venue for the ceremony, you may only take photographs from your seat to minimise disrupting other guests.

Official University photographers will take photographs of each graduate as they graduate on stage, and these will be on sale after the ceremony. Other professional photographers will not be allowed into the venue.

Post-event celebrations

At the conclusion of the ceremony you be led to the post-event celebrations. The post-event celebrations include refreshments for you and your guests. It will commence as soon as your ceremony has finished and will last for one hour. This is an opportunity to celebrate with your guests and fellow graduates as well as take photos around the venue.

Guest seating at the Royal Exhibition Building is ticketed. You will be allocated a specific guest entry ( Rathdowne or Nicholson ) based on which side of the stage your graduate will be presented. Please note that seating is not allocated within each section.

Children and babies

It is recommended children and babies do not attend the ceremony due to the length and formal nature of the proceedings. If children do attend they must be supervised by a carer other than the graduate. Carers can exit and enter the venue with their children as needed.

COVIDSafe requirements

Please follow any guidance provided by event organisers. You are welcome to wear a face mask at any time, particularly when unable to distance yourself from others. More information on face masks and other infection control measures is available on our dedicated COVID-19 website .

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Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

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• 2024 Graduate Spring Commencement Speaker

Graduate commencement speaker hopes journey of determination inspires others

By:   Tia Broz, Communications Consultant

Source:   Office of the Vice President for Communications and Marketing

Monday, April 22, 2024

Kidist Yasin has been selected as the graduate student speaker at the IUPUI   2024 Spring Commencement   May 9 at Michael A. Carroll Stadium.

Yasin is eager to represent fellow graduate students at the ceremony and hopes her journey inspires others.

“As an immigrant, a Black woman, and a mother and primary caregiver to two young children, juggling an intensive Ph.D. program is hard,” she said. “It seems impossible. I feel like my story will be an inspiration, not only for the graduates, but for families and anyone else who hears it. I want to show that anything is possible with hard work, determination, faith and strong support systems at both university and personal levels.”

Yasin, originally from Ethiopia, moved to Indianapolis in August 2015 with her husband and their then 7-week-old daughter. He earned a Ph.D. in economics from the School of Liberal Arts’ Department of Economics, and she had planned to do the same until she discovered the   Lilly Family School of Philanthropy .

“Several professors that I admire within the Department of Economics, including   Una Osili ,   Mark Ottoni-Wilhelm   and   Richard Steinberg , are affiliated with the Lilly School,” she said. “I learned about the Ph.D. program in philanthropic studies through their work and was particularly excited by their research on giving behavior — a subject I had begun to explore during my previous academic training.”

Yasin joined the Lilly School in 2018 and will graduate with a Ph.D. in philanthropic studies. When it comes to her career path post-graduation, she is weighing her options.

“I am from an academic background; my work experience is purely in academia,” she said. “I used to be a lecturer back home, so being a professor is something I could pursue.

“But another side of me wants to go into the nonprofit sector and work with beneficiaries and help people, especially children, youth and women. I have a heart to serve. I’m looking at both sides and don’t know where I’m going to end up.”

Whatever she decides, Yasin wants to model the positive example set by her professors and mentors at the Lilly School.

“They are exceptional; they have nurturing spirits and recognize your potential,” she said. “They are aware of the challenges you face and provide outstanding support. I haven’t encountered this level of care in education elsewhere.

“For instance, professor   Pamala Wiepking , now one of my dissertation co-chairs alongside professor   Kathi Badertscher , appreciates the significance of my research on giving behaviors in my home country Ethiopia. This research contributes to our understanding of philanthropy by bringing voices that are often overlooked in the discourse. She has supported my efforts since I entered the program.

“Dr. Badertscher, who is also my academic advisor and mentor, has been a pillar of support. Her academic guidance on my dissertation and other scholarly works, along with her compassionate and nurturing personality, have helped me see my potential despite my challenges — something I will always cherish. Professors   Sara Konrath   and   Patrick Rooney , with whom I have worked as a graduate research and teaching assistant, have imparted essential leadership and academic research skills.

“I can confidently say that the Lilly Family School is indeed the premier institution for philanthropy. It boasts an exceptional faculty and staff, fostering significant growth both academically and personally for anyone who joins the program.”

Badertscher, assistant dean of academic programs in the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, nominated Yasin to give the commencement speech.

“My dual roles as director of graduate programs at the school and as the co-chair of Kidy’s dissertation committee have allowed me to watch her blossom in all aspects of doctoral education,” Badertscher said. “As an independent researcher, she has made tremendous strides in analytical techniques, critical thinking, and clear and persuasive writing. She is also one of the most gifted presenters I have worked with or observed. This innate talent allows her to connect with groups of all kinds and put everyone in any room at ease.

“When it comes to Kidy’s character as a human being, she is one of the kindest and most empathetic and thoughtful colleagues I have worked with.”

Yasin holds an advanced master’s degree in development and globalization from the University of Antwerp in Belgium, as well as a Master of Science in economics from Addis Ababa University and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Dire Dawa University, both in Ethiopia.

In her commencement address, she plans to share two messages with her fellow graduates.

“First, I want to encourage us, the graduates, to reflect on our academic journey,” Yasin said. “We have faced challenges, overcome failures and learned from our mistakes. This reflection allows us to celebrate how far we’ve come, how much we’ve learned and how much we’ve achieved, even with enormous challenges.

“Additionally, I will highlight the invaluable support we received from the university community, our families and our friends, acknowledging that this achievement is also a celebration of their steadfast contribution to our success.”

Tia Broz is a communications consultant in the Office of the Vice President for Communications and Marketing.

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Ohio Northern University 2024 commencement speakers, honorary doctoral degree recipients announced

A federal judge, Pfizer’s vaccines medical director, and a Methodist bishop, are Ohio Northern University’s spring 2024 commencement speakers.

The Honorable Stephanie L. Haines, JD ’95, will be featured at the Pettit College of Law ceremony scheduled for Saturday, May 18 at 10 a.m.; Dr. Patrick Garman, BSPh ’91, will participate in the Raabe College of Pharmacy ceremony to be held on Sunday, May 19 at 9 a.m.; and Bishop Gregory V. Palmer, will address undergraduate ceremony guests and graduates on May 19 at 2 p.m.

The ceremonies will be held at King Horn Sports Center’s field house. 

All three commencement speakers will receive honorary doctoral degrees, as will ONU alumnus Jim Halderman, BSEd ’68, an educator, entrepreneur, and advocate for sustainability.

Judge Haines has devoted her career to serving her country and upholding the law. She is currently a U.S. District Court judge for the Western District of Pennsylvania, appointed to the federal judgeship by the U.S. President and confirmed with a unanimous vote by the U.S. Senate.

After graduating from Ohio Northern University’s Pettit College of Law in 1995, she clerked in the Court of Common Pleas in Somerset, Pa., before serving her country in the U.S. Army JAG Corps and the U.S. Air Force/West Virginia National Guard. She also served as an assistant U.S. attorney in the criminal division for the U.S. Attorney’s office in the Southern District of West Virginia and the Western District of Pennsylvania before being appointed as a U.S. District Judge in 2019.

Dr. Garman enjoyed a long and distinguished career in the U.S. Army where he achieved more with a pharmacy degree in the military than anyone who came before him. He is currently the vaccines medical director for Pfizer, a position he assumed after retiring from the Army with the rank of Colonel.

Garman received a pharmacy degree from ONU and his military career, which spanned 30 years, was marked by many milestone firsts for a pharmacist. He commanded a 101-bed full spectrum Army hospital and health-system in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He mobilized the 1st Area Medical Laboratory unit that deployed to Liberia during the world’s largest Ebola outbreak in 2014. He directed the Department of Defense’s Military Vaccine Agency, and served as a Medical Brigade Executive Officer during a year-long deployment in Afghanistan in Operation Enduring Freedom, where he earned a Bronze Star. He served as the Deputy Joint Staff Surgeon for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon.

During his army career, Garman furthered his education with an MBA, PharmD, Ph.D., and Master of Science in Strategic Studies from the Army War College. After retiring from the U.S. Army with the rank of Colonel, he became the vaccines medical director for the pharmaceutical and biotech giant Pfizer. 

Bishop Palmer has modeled the strength, passion, and joy of faithful Christian leadership throughout his 46 years serving the United Methodist Church.

Growing up in Philadelphia, he was a child of the church, as his father was a pastor. He received his undergraduate degree from George Washington University and the Master of Divinity degree from Duke University Divinity School. In 1977, he was ordained a deacon and went on to serve churches in Ohio and North Carolina as a pastor and district supervisor. 

In 2000, he was elected to the episcopacy and ordained a bishop. He served in Iowa and Illinois before being assigned to the West Ohio Conference in 2012. Through his leadership, he’s had a major impact on the world of United Methodism, yet never lost touch with his congregation. 

His dedication to higher education has been a hallmark of his episcopacy. He served as president of the General Board of Higher Education for four years, which coordinates and oversees the relationship of the United Methodist Church with 107 affiliated colleges and universities.

Mr. Halderman, educator and entrepreneur, is also receiving an honorary doctoral degree at the undergraduate commencement.

A car enthusiast from his early childhood, he built his first electric vehicle — and Ada, Ohio’s first — when he was a student at ONU in the 1960s. This kickstarted his lifelong passion for alternative energy.

After graduating from ONU in 1968, he worked as a high school industrial arts teacher, then joined the automotive program at Sinclair Community College in Dayton, where he taught for 30 years before retiring in 2005. He wrote 18 automotive technology college-level textbooks, and patented an electronic transmission control device. An exceptional educator, he has presented at numerous technical seminars to national audiences, and received accolades like Regional Teacher of the Year from General Motors.

At his alma mater, Halderman is seeking to make ONU a hub for sustainability in the Midwest by championing and funding key projects like electric vehicle charging stations; an innovative lab and think space called the Halderman Sustainability Lab; and electric equipment and vehicles.

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UB to hold commencement ceremonies

campus news

Photo: Douglas Levere

UBNOW STAFF

Published April 26, 2024

Some 6,453 students are candidates to receive 6,909 degrees and certificates during UB’s 2024 commencement ceremonies being held April 26 through May 19.

Commencement season begins today with the ceremony for students graduating from the MD program in the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. The event, the Jacob School’s 178th annual commencement ceremony, will take place at 3 p.m. in the Center for the Arts. James Marks, a former executive vice president of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a former U.S. assistant surgeon general and a 1973 graduate of the Jacobs School, will receive a SUNY honorary degree in science.

The remainder of the commencement schedule:

• School of Dental Medicine : 3 p.m. May 3, Center for the Arts.
• School of Public Health and Health Professions: 5 p.m. May 16, Alumni Arena.
• School of Nursing : 9 a.m. May 17, Alumni Arena.
• Graduate School of Education : 9 a.m. May 17, Center for the Arts.
• School of Management (undergraduate): 1 p.m. May 17, Alumni Arena.
• College of Arts and Sciences (graduate): 1 p.m., May 17, Center for the Arts.
• School of Management (graduate): 5 p.m. May 17, Alumni Arena.
• School of Architecture and Planning : 5 p.m., May 17, Center for the Arts.
• School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (graduate 1): 9 a.m. May 18, Alumni Arena. The UB President’s Medal will be presented to Venu Govindaraju, SUNY Distinguished Professor of Computer Science and Engineering and vice president for research and economic development.
• School of Social Work : 9 a.m., May 18, Center for the Arts.
• School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (graduate 2): 1 p.m. May 18, Alumni Arena.
• School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences : 1 p.m. May 18, Center for the Arts.
• School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (undergraduate) : 5 p.m. May 18, Alumni Arena. The President’s Medal will be presented to Deborah Duen Ling Chung, professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
• College of Arts and Sciences (undergraduate arts, natural sciences and math): 9 a.m., May 19, Alumni Arena.
• Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (undergraduate and graduate) : 9 a.m. May 19, Center for the Arts.
• College of Arts and Sciences (undergraduate humanities and social sciences) : 1 p.m., May 19, Alumni Arena.
• School of Law : 1 p.m. May 19, Center for the Arts.

The university also is holding several university-wide recognition and certificate ceremonies:

• Veterans and Military Recognition Ceremony honoring graduating UB students who are reservists, members of the National Guard, newly commissioned officers or veterans of the U.S. armed forces: 3 p.m. April 24, Buffalo Room, 10 Capen Hall.
• Lavender Ceremony  celebrating the achievements of graduating students who identify with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community at UB: 3 p.m. May 10, 145 Student Union.
• Educational Opportunity Center , 7 p.m. May 15, Center for the Arts.
• ALANA Celebration of Achievement  honoring graduating ALANA (African, Latino/a, Asian and Native American) students: 2 p.m. May 16, Center for the Arts.
• University Honors College , 7:30 p.m. May 16, Center for the Arts.

Do you have questions or comments for the Office of the Provost? Let us know your thoughts and we’ll be happy to get back to you.

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• 4/26/24 UB to hold commencement ceremonies

College of Engineering

April 22, 2024

900+ Spartan Engineering students to graduate

Alumna rachel hutter, head of disney studios operations, to give spring commencement address.

Michigan State University will host advanced degree and undergraduate commencement ceremonies for more than 900 College of Engineering graduates this weekend.

Both ceremonies are expected to be approximately two hours. There are no admission tickets required.

College of Engineering Dean Leo Kempel said he’s confident all graduates will be able to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.

“I cannot wait to see the incredible accomplishments our graduates will achieve in the years to come,” Kempel said. “My advice is to embrace every career opportunity, continue to learn and grow, and never lose sight of the impact you can make as Spartan Engineers."

Kempel will offer both the welcome and closing remarks at undergraduate graduation.  Amanda Idema, assistant dean for Undergraduate Student Affairs, serves as commencement coordinator.

Ceremony dates, times

Engineering will host graduation services for 805 undergraduates on Sunday, April 28, at 3:30 p.m. in the Breslin Center.

Ashlin Riggs, a computation data science senior, has been named the student commencement speaker.

Charles Dunn, a senior in chemical engineering, will sing the Star-Spangled Banner.

Adwait Paliwal, a computer science senior, will deliver the remarks at convocation.

The Advanced Degree Commencement for master’s degree graduates is Friday, April 26, at 9 a.m. in MSU's Breslin Center. There will be 56 master's candidates from the College of Engineering.

The Advanced Degree Commencement for Ph.D. graduates is Friday, April 26, at 3 p.m. in MSU's Breslin Center.  There will 78 Ph.D. candidates from the college.

Commencement livestream, social media, personal messages

Commencement ceremonies will be livestreamed on the MSU Commencement website:  https://commencement.msu.edu .

Social media users can follow the ceremonies on X, formerly known as Twitter, and other social media platforms using the hashtag #SpartanGrad24.

Family, friends and fellow alums can honor graduating students by submitting personalized messages and photos to be displayed on stage prior to the ceremonies. Supporters can submit their well wishes online now through graduation day. 

The link to sumbit messages that recognize College of Engineering graduates:  https://app.kululu.com/nu8wd9 .

Safety protocols, parking, concessions

For the safety of attendees, no bags or purses will be allowed in Breslin Center during commencement ceremonies. Cameras and camcorders are permitted, but cases are prohibited.

No food or beverages — including bottled water — will be allowed, and this applies to graduates, guests, and faculty. Breslin Center will offer a limited concessions menu during the ceremonies.

Related links:

• MSU Commencement website
• More than 9,500 Spartans to graduate this spring
• Dantonio, influential leaders to address spring graduates

Additional prohibited items: noisemakers, selfie sticks, pets, signs and weapons of any kind. MSU is a smoke-free campus, including all outdoor and indoor spaces.

Metal detectors will screen all attendees at Breslin Center, so please plan accordingly.

Parking at the Breslin Center is limited, so the public is encouraged to use the free shuttle service.

Distinguished Alumni keynote address

Rachel S. Hutter will offer the undergraduate keynote address as the 2024 Claud R. Erickson Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient. Hutter will receive the College of Engineering’s top honor at the  Engineering Alumni Awards banquet on Saturday, April 27.

Hutter is head of studio operations for Walt Disney Studios and is a licensed professional engineer and certified safety professional. 

Hutter joined Disney in 1997 and was part of the team that built and  opened Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

As head of Disney studio operations, Hutter’s responsibilities include planning and tracking content for Marvel, Lucasfilm, Disney Live-Action, Disney Animation, Pixar, 20th Century Studios and Searchlight Pictures.

Hutter graduated from Michigan State University in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and had a concentration in theater.

Programs available online, via mail

There are no printed commencement programs on-site at any ceremony location. However, attendees will be able to access the programs by scanning QR codes with their mobile device.

To order a program and have it mailed to you, visit the MSU commencement website. Programs will be mailed after the ceremonies.

Written by Eric Lacy, [email protected]. See more at the Engineering Media and Public Relations page.

Radford University

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Keynote speakers announced for radford university spring commencement ceremonies.

Radford University is proud to announce the distinguished keynote speakers for its upcoming Spring Commencement ceremonies, scheduled for May 3 and 4, 2024.

This year’s commencement speakers represent excellence as alumni, embodying leadership, service, philanthropy and accomplishment. Mark Pace ’92 will deliver the keynote address at the university’s undergraduate ceremony. Amanda Cox, MBA ’21, will deliver the keynote address during the graduate hooding ceremony.

Mark Pace represents the essence of entrepreneurial spirit and community stewardship in Virginia. As the president and owner of E.C. Pace Co. Inc., a renowned heavy highway utility construction company based in Roanoke, Pace upholds a legacy spanning four generations. His leadership has been instrumental in the company’s continued success and its positive impact on the region’s infrastructure.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Pace is deeply involved in community service, serving on the boards of the Virginia Business Higher Education Council and Carilion Clinic. His dedication to Radford University is evident through his past leadership roles, including serving as a member and vice rector on the Radford University Board of Visitors.

Since earning his undergraduate degree in business, Pace has remained committed to his alma mater’s growth and prosperity. Alongside his wife, Amy, Pace has two children, Nicholas and Megan.

Amanda Cox stands as a beacon of leadership in the corporate and community spheres. Currently serving as the external affairs manager at Appalachian Power Co., Cox’s responsibilities include overseeing local and county governmental affairs, fostering regional economic development and nurturing community relations. As a registered lobbyist in Virginia, she actively engages in General Assembly sessions in Richmond, advocating for policies that benefit her community and beyond.

Prior to her role at Appalachian Power, Cox served as the president and CEO of the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce and its Partnership for Economic Growth. Under her leadership, the chamber achieved significant milestones, including securing a five-star rating with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for the first time in its history. In addition to her Master of Business Administration from Radford, Cox’s academic journey includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Ferrum College.

Cox’s commitment to service extends beyond her professional endeavors as she actively participates on multiple state, regional, and local boards. She resides in Franklin County, Virginia, with her husband, Jonathan, and their two children, embodying the values of leadership, dedication and community engagement.

Radford University is honored to welcome Pace and Cox as the keynote speakers for our Spring Commencement ceremonies. Their inspiring stories and steadfast commitment to excellence serve as guiding lights for the graduating Class of 2024, inspiring its members to pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions to society.

For more information about Radford University’s Spring Commencement ceremonies, please visit www.radford.edu/commencement .

Apr 24, 2024 Justin Ward (540) 831-1953 [email protected]