The celebration included two members of Syracuse University’s Board of Trustees, Ken Pontarelli and Deborah Leone, who had family members graduating from Falk, and a surprise visit from Otto the Orange, who helped Falk College Dean Jeremy Jordan take a selfie in front of all the graduating students!
Watch the slideshow above for photos from Convocation, and visit the Syracuse University Commencement website to watch the full Falk Convocation ceremony.
Guest speaker Benita Fitzgerald Mosley, an Olympic gold medalist and visionary executive, delivered an inspiring speech during which she encouraged graduates to ask “Why not me” when they dream about the goals they have set for their careers and personal lives. Here’s a video and story to learn more about Fitzgerald Mosley.
Dean Jordan reminded the graduates that they follow generations of Syracuse University alumni who refused to settle, pursued innovation, and conquered the challenges of their time. Now, it’s their turn.
“The worlds of sports, human performance, and applied and behavioral health are evolving rapidly,” Jordan said. “To become effective leaders, you must evolve with them—and I have every confidence you will.
“At Syracuse University and Falk College, we have strived to prepare you to meet these challenges head-on and become the change agents our world desperately needs,” he continued. “The education you’ve received here has equipped you with the tools to make meaningful contributions in your chosen fields. Your unique perspectives, innovative thinking, and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly lead to breakthroughs that improve lives and communities.”