Highlights From Macaulay’s 2017 Commencement

The Class of 2017 proudly celebrated the end of their years of scholarship at Macaulay Honors College on June 12, 2017. A highlight of their commencement was the keynote speaker Garry Trudeau, creator of the Doonesbury comic strip and the first such artist to win a Pulitzer Prize. Trudeau also received a Honorary Doctor of Letters degree following his address.

Garry Trudeau Commencement Speech

Said Macaulay Dean Mary C. Pearl, Ph.D.: “With a keen eye and sharp sense of humor, Trudeau has tackled difficult subjects ranging from mental health to military intervention to the battle lines of personal and political conflict that have challenged our society over the past five decades. His thoughtful approach, his sensitivity, and his deep civic engagement exemplify Macaulay’s highest ideals.”

Among the other noteworthy speakers was William Thompson, the new Chairman of the Board of Trustees of The City University of New York; student speakers Stephin Jose (City College) and Aissatou Diallo (Hunter College); and alumna Ayodele Oti ’12 (City College).

Macaulay’s commencement this year took place at the United Palace Theater in Upper Manhattan and accommodated hundreds of graduates and their families. Performers and music for the ceremony included the Lehman College Wind Ensemble and The Macaulet Triplets singing group. Macaulay seniors also were selected as valedictorians and salutatorians at their home campus, including:

Valedictorians:
Ellianna Schwab (City College)
Palwasha Syar (CSI)
Daniela Mikhaylov and Rina Schiller (Hunter)
Caitlin Larsen (Baruch College)

Salutatorians:
Michael Franco (Brooklyn)
Naomi Gaggi and Vincent Jost (CSI)