Commencement 2025: A Celebration of Achievement and Community

As we approach this weekend’s Commencement ceremonies, we write to share our immense pride and offer our heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2025!

To all of our graduating students: this moment represents the culmination of years of dedication, growth, and perseverance. Your achievements inspire us, and your journey at Saint Mary’s has helped shape the vibrant, forward-looking institution we and our colleagues are so proud to serve.

This year’s Commencement holds particular significance for both of us—it is our first in our respective roles as President and Provost. Sharing this milestone alongside you makes the celebration all the more meaningful. It is a privilege to join this community at such an important time, and we are honored to witness the energy, talent, and promise of our graduating class.

We also extend our deepest thanks to our extraordinary faculty and staff. Your unwavering commitment to teaching, mentorship, research, and support has been the foundation of our students’ success. Every paper reviewed, lab supervised, office hour held, and quiet moment of encouragement has helped bring this class to the finish line. Your contributions do not go unnoticed—they are essential and deeply appreciated. We are equally grateful to our community of De La Salle Christian Brothers, Gael Alumni, and other supporters for the encouragement and guidance you routinely provide to our students.

We would also like to offer special thanks to members of the Commencement Planning Committee, our Meetings, Events, and Conference Services (MECS) team, and all of our staff and faculty volunteers who will provide additional support at each of our events. Organizing and executing two Commencement ceremonies is no small feat—it requires months of careful planning, long hours, and extraordinary attention to detail. Your dedication ensures that this capstone experience is as meaningful and memorable as it deserves to be for our graduating students, their families, and loved ones. We are profoundly grateful for all that you do.

Class of 2025 graduates: As you prepare to cross the stage and take the next steps into the world, know that you carry with you the hopes and pride of an entire campus community. You are ready. And we cannot wait to see how you will lead, contribute, and thrive.

We offer our deepest congratulations and great excitement for what lies ahead. As always…Go Gaels!

Roger J. Thompson, EdD
President

Carol Ann Gittens, PhD
Acting Senior VP for Academic Affairs and Provost