College honors Outstanding Graduates before an audience of friends, family and faculty

The 2015 SUNY New Paltz Outstanding Graduates ceremony was held May 15 in recognition of the superb achievement, in and out of the classroom, of a select group of undergraduate and graduate students representing all five of New Paltz’s schools – the School of Business, School of Education, School of Fine and Performing Arts, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the School of Science and Engineering.

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“The quality of a college environment depends in many ways on the quality of its people,” said College President Donald P. Christian. “We speak with pride about the caliber and the dedication of students at SUNY New Paltz. As outstanding students, you’ve achieved much, and we hope you find great pleasure and reward in what you’ve accomplished so far in your lives. We’ve watched you grow academically and personally during your years here, and take great pride in your accomplishments as you prepare to graduate and move on to the next stage of your life.”

President Christian encouraged the graduates-to-be to consider New Paltz “a location for life,” and asked that they return home to campus frequently to speak with future generations of leaders.

“I hope you’ll accept my heartfelt congratulations for all you’ve achieved during your time here, and let it be a sign of things to come as you venture into the wider world of work and graduate professional study,” Christian said.

Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Philip Mauceri joined President Christian in congratulating the Outstanding Graduates. He inaugurated the presentation of certificates by recognizing the Class of 2015 valedictorian, Marisa Gargaro ’15 (Communication Disorders), and the salutatorian, Sarah Walling ’14 (Spanish).

Mauceri also drew attention to the dynamic relationships with faculty that help propel the superior work of SUNY New Paltz students.

“Our excellent and dedicated faculty have mentored and coached our honorees,” Mauceri said. “They have shared with them their enthusiasm for learning; collaborated with them on research projects; and have cheered on their participation in co-curricular activities.”

Following a round of enthusiastic ovations for the faculty, friends and family who supported the Outstanding Graduates during their time at the College, the students proceeded to the stage to receive official commendations for their exceptional academic and personal achievements.