A message from

DONALD R. BOOMGAARDEN, PH.D.

It is with great pride and joy that I reflect on our recent commencement ceremony, where we celebrated the remarkable achievements of 1,200 graduates from our Brooklyn, Long Island, and Online campuses. This milestone not only marks the culmination of years of dedication and hard work but also signifies the beginning of a new chapter for our graduates as they step into the world as leaders, innovators, and compassionate individuals.

In this edition of our alumni magazine, you will find an in-depth feature on our 105th annual commencement ceremony. We had the privilege of welcoming Dr. KMarie King ’94, the chair and chief of surgery at Albany Medical Center, as our commencement speaker. Dr. King delivered a truly inspiring speech to the graduates, sharing her journey and offering invaluable insights and encouragement.

Additionally, I am thrilled to share news of a transformative $1 million gift from our esteemed alumnus, Steve Somers ’82. This generous contribution will significantly enhance opportunities for generations of St. Joseph’s students, ensuring they have access to the best resources and experiences.

The magazine also pays tribute to the Sisters of St. Joseph, the founders of our University. Their enduring legacy of service, education and faith continues to inspire and guide us. Through a series of dedicated stories, we honor their contributions and the profound impact they have had on our community and beyond.

Moreover, this edition contains many success stories of our alumni, faculty and students. These narratives highlight the resilience, creativity and determination that define the St. Joseph’s University spirit and underscore the profound impact our community members have on their fields and communities.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our University. Together, we will continue to build a vibrant and dynamic community.

Warm regards,