Bringing Graduation to the Doorstep

This year, most in-person commencement ceremonies are remnants of a not-so-distant past. That was until June 14, however, when faculty and leaders of NYIT School of Health Professions’ Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences traversed Long Island and Queens to bring graduation to its seniors.

Coordinated by Department Administrator Stella Leandrou, the drive-by graduation had the makings of a real in-person ceremony, including a podium created from three grocery delivery cartons draped in blue. Car speakers played pomp and circumstance and provided the backdrop for school banners and balloons, because no commencement would be complete without music and decorations.

As the new Health Sciences, B.S. and Health and Wellness, B.S. degree recipients processed and stood eight feet away on their front lawn, their mentors from the School of Health Professions shared congratulatory remarks. Wearing masks, Dean Gordon Schmidt, Ph.D., Assistant Dean and Chair Mindy Haar, Ph.D., Associate Professor Lorraine Mongiello, Ph.D., and Instructor Alex Rothstein, M.S., took turns addressing each graduate. The graduates then had the opportunity to thank their families and faculty, as well as accept their gift of a messenger bag with New York Tech logo.

The Class of 2020 will continue on to career paths that include Physician Assistant Studies, Physical Therapy, Diagnostic Sonography, Medical Office Coordination, and Fitness and Wellness Management.

By day’s end, many had already written to thank their distinguished visitors for creating a unique and memorable experience. 

Congratulations to all!