Meet the Spring 2024 Albany Commencement Platform Party

(SARATOGA SPRINGS NY – APRIL 30, 2024) Empire State University’s Albany commencement ceremony is just a few days away. Meet this year’s platform party who will be celebrating and honoring our graduates!

President Lisa Vollendorf:

At commencement you can find me: Speaking to graduates and handing them diplomas as they cross the stage.

My message to our graduates: "I am always inspired to meet our graduates and learn their personal stories of perseverance and success."

Chief Diversity Officer Xiomara Giordano:

At commencement you can find me: Reading the names of our graduates as they cross the stage.

My message to our graduates: “Congratulations on your achievement! As you embark on your journey beyond academia, remember: your diverse perspectives are vital. The world needs your voices, ideas, and talents to navigate its ever-changing landscape. Embrace your uniqueness and never hesitate to share your insights. You all will shape a future where every perspective is valued.”

Associate Provost for Student Success Seana Logsdon:

At commencement you can find me: Helping President Vollendorf hand out diploma covers to our graduates.

My message to our graduates: “It is with great pleasure that I offer my warmest congratulations to our graduates. Your hard work, courage, and dedication have been inspiring.  Enjoy every moment as you step onto the stage and hear your name called. Those cheers are for you, and you deserve each one!”

Provost Hitesh Rai Kathuria:

At commencement you can find me: Emceeing the event.

My message to our graduates: “Your graduation from Empire State University speaks to your determination, intellect, and the countless hours you’ve invested in the pursuit of knowledge. Congratulations on this extraordinary achievement.”

Academic Coordinator and Instructor Christi Shorkey:

At commencement you can find me: Leading our graduates to and from the stage as the Mace Bearer.

My message to our graduates: “I imagine many of you did not think you would ever get to this day but here you are! No doubt you had to conquer many hurdles and persevere to get to this point! I hope you can take today to reflect on your achievements, to celebrate and to let today serve as a stepping stone for your continued success. Congratulations to the Class of 2024!”

Administrative Assistant Rebecca Monaghan:

At commencement you can find me: Singing the National Anthem.

My Message to our graduates: “On behalf of all employees at SUNY Empire, CONGRATULATIONS!!! We are so proud of you for reaching this major milestone. Your determination has secured your success and we have no doubt that you will continue to reach the goals you set for yourself. Enjoy the spotlight today – you have EARNED this recognition and we are so proud to count you amidst our esteemed alumni!”

Professor and Chair of the Accounting, Economics, Finance & MIS Department Nazik Roufaiel:

At commencement you can find me: Delivering a speech as the faculty speaker for Albany’s ceremony.

My message to our graduates: “You embarked on a tough journey with unwavering determination. Yet you stayed focused on that bright light at end of the tunnel — and your courage and resilience have paid off! You are graduating in a special year where New York State was in the path of a solar eclipse and totality. We needed a moment of darkness to focus on the light. That reminds me of Aristotle Onassis saying, ‘It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to understand something clearly at last.’ Sometimes, the harder the struggle, the sweeter the victory. Today marks a glorious chapter of your continued education. Life is not worthy unless we endure the risk of progress and advancement.”

Student Speaker Em Wasserman:

At commencement you can find me: Delivering a speech as the student speaker for Albany’s ceremony.

My message to our graduates: “As your fellow graduate, I want to congratulate us for this incredible accomplishment. We've all taken on the privileges and challenges of higher education; let's go out into the world, continue to embrace new experiences, and never give up on our dreams!”