Master’s and Doctoral Candidates Earn Degrees

St. John Fisher University conferred master’s and doctoral degrees upon more than 400 graduates during two ceremonies on Saturday, May 10.

The morning ceremony celebrated graduate degree recipients of the MBA, Doctor of Executive Leadership, M.S. in Education: Educational Leadership, M.S. in Inclusive Adolescence Education, M.S. in Inclusive Childhood Education, M.S. in Library Media, M.S. in Literacy Education, and Doctor of Pharmacy programs. In the afternoon, graduates of the Doctor of Nursing Practice, M.S. in Nursing, M.S. in Mental Health Counseling, and M.S. in Public Health crossed the stage to receive their diplomas.

The University also bestowed President’s Medals upon Lucy Malmberg, co-founder of Wedgewood Pharmacy, and Dr. Marilyn Dollinger, professor emerita and retired executive associate dean of the Wegmans School of Nursing. Both honorees were recognized for their commitment to advancing the practice of their respective professions, as well as their advocacy for patients and practitioners.

Each honoree addressed graduates, offering advice and reflection on their illustrious, impactful careers.

“Embrace your future with the confidence and determination that you’ve gained while here at St. John Fisher,” Malmberg said. “Carry with you all the lessons you’ve learned, all the memories you’ve created and shared, and especially hold fast all the friendships you have forged with each other.”

Dollinger encouraged graduates to be lifelong learners as they advance in their careers.

“I know that you, graduates of Fisher, are well prepared to provide excellent care to the patients and families you work with—that is the ‘heart and soul of health care’ and what you have learned here,” she said. “But, health care also requires that every one of us continues to listen, learn, and develop new skills so we can answer the calls to action from a system that is at risk.”

After graduates received their diplomas and turned their tassels, fellow graduates Niyaz Pordel and Alanna Lippa, delivered remarks at their respective ceremonies.

“Your earned degree and this commencement moment are not just about the acquisition of knowledge and the development of skills. It’s also about grit, growth, and grace,” Pordel said. “As we walk across this stage today, I want you to remember: This isn’t the finish line. It’s the launchpad. You are not behind; you are not late. Your story is unfolding exactly as it needs to. So, here’s to the late nights, the breakdowns, the breakthroughs, and to the beautiful unknown ahead.”

Lippa noted that those who devote their careers to health care are answering a call to take care of others, and that’s no easy task.

“Health care is complex, challenging, and sometimes downright chaotic. But if there’s one thing we’ve learned during this journey, it’s that we are resilient. We are problem-solvers. And we know how to adapt,” she said. “To the Class of 2025: You’ve chosen a path that will challenge you every day to be your best self. You’ve chosen to dedicate your lives to helping others. So, with that said – the world awaits you.”