Posted On
Topics
Events
Rankings, Awards, & Honors
Share
A rainy day couldn’t dampen the Class of 2025’s parade as friends, family and members of the Emmanuel community gathered for the College’s 103rd Commencement Exercises on Saturday, May 10th.
Looking toward the future and reflecting upon their Emmanuel experience, graduates were reminded that while their journey won’t be without challenges, they are equipped with the mindfulness, dedication and integrity to overcome whatever obstacles lie ahead.
District Attorney of Middlesex County, Marian Ryan ’76 was this year’s Commencement speaker and received an honorary degree from the College. Ryan, who is the commonwealth of Massachusetts’ only woman District Attorney, connected with members of the Class of 2025 about their shared experience as Emmanuel alums, and what graduating with a diploma from Emmanuel means.
“Like so many of you, I developed my voice here,” Ryan said, “when I graduated, I realized that Emmanuel hadn’t just prepared me for law school and a career as a prosecutor – it had taught me how to use the immense power inherent in being a prosecutor to seek justice and how to balance accountability with compassion.”
As “lifelong learners,” something that all Emmanuel graduates are positioned to become, Ryan imparted four recommendations – connected to four objects, a coffee cup, a book, a pair of shoes and a mirror – that they can remember to become more engaged citizens each and every day.
Ryan encouraged the Class of 2025 to: invite people for a coffee and engage in real conversations; always be reading something; get out and show up to foster community; and practice honest self-reflection.
“Marian Ryan '76 District Attorney of Middlesex CountyI hope that when you see one of these objects, you will remember what Emmanuel has given us and what we are charged with doing…I am rooting hard for each of you – our democracy depends on you.”
The Class of 2025’s student speaker, Kyra Lam ’25, reflected upon the College’s role in preparing her and her fellow graduates to pursue their dreams.
Lam’s story began long before she was born, with her parents and grandparents coming to the United States to build a better future for themselves and their family. “They fought to give me opportunities that they weren’t given, and believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself.”
“I am a first generation American, first generation college student, woman of color in STEM, and yet Emmanuel College has never made me feel out of place in a world full of challenges and obstacles,” she said.
In that next phase of life and beyond, Lam acknowledged that they will inevitably face challenges along the way, but she encouraged her fellow graduates not to fear those hardships, but to take them in stride. From peers to faculty and beyond, the kindness, compassion and empathy found at Emmanuel College has equipped them for the beginning of their adulthood – and ensures that the Class of 2025 will continue striving to improve and excel in every aspect of their lives, Lam added.
“Kyra Lam '25I hope our paths will cross again. I hope you own every second that the world has given to you, and I hope the best of your todays are the worst of your tomorrows.”
Cecelia Ibeabuchi
“I want you to remember three things: first, show up and pay attention. Second, be courageous in your curiosity. Lastly, always add a level of compassion in what you do.”
Mark B. Kerwin
“It is my wish that the Class of 2025 can look back in the years to come with that same level of gratitude and pride that my aunt had…and anytime she referred to what will soon be your Alma Mater.”
As the Class of 2025 sets out into the working world in Boston and beyond – with roles at Mass General Brigham, Boston Children’s Hospital, Bank of America, Cathedral High School, the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department – or to continue pursuing their education at Boston College, Syracuse University, Tufts University, Worcester Polytechnic Institute and more, Emmanuel President Beth Ross, Ed.D., echoed the speakers’ advice when meeting adversity in the future.
“Your career will not be a straight line,” she said. “You will face moments when the rules change overnight, when systems fall short, when people disappoint you. And in those moments, your reaction – your response – will matter more than the situation itself…the world needs accountability and resilience. The kind that allows you to absorb the hit, find your footing, and move forward with purpose.”
