“While we celebrated graduates last May with a virtual ceremony, it was with great disappointment that we had to postpone in-person Commencement due to the coronavirus. We’re thrilled that our recent graduates could return to campus this year to mark this special milestone in your lives and recognize your hard-earned achievements. We applaud your ability to overcome the adversity that coronavirus caused in your educational and personal lives. I know that your willingness and success in adapting quickly to a changing environment will serve you well in your life and livelihood.”

President Donald P. Christian

"SUNY New Paltz has given us the opportunity to evolve as people, to expand our knowledge and skills, and to be independent. We have made unforgettable memories and built relationships with people who inspire us. As we close this chapter and open the next one, I hope that we all consciously choose kindness and gratitude and ardently use our passions, talents, and experience to lift those around us"

Majessa Pedrozo ’19 (Communication Disorders), 2020 Valedictorian

“We have persevered, we have adjusted, and we have conquered. We have been through adversity long before these times arrived, and we will continue to humbly do so until we cannot anymore. Congratulations, to the strongest class I know.”

Kiana Graham ’20 (International Relations), President, First World Graduation

"This is a time when society needs more than ever the greater expertise and skills that your program has provided. We make greater progress in tackling a whole range of societal problems, such as economic inequality, environmental threats and educational barriers, when a more highly educated cadre like you applies to these problems the critical analysis, bold leadership and communication skills that you have strengthened during your graduate studies"

Barbara Lyman, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

"This is a disruption like we haven’t seen, but it can lead to change and new ways of doing things, and create a need for contributions from new people with new approaches. You have what it takes to succeed, and most important, you have the ability to define what success will look like for you."

Ed Carroll ’85 (Communication & Media), COO of AMC Networks