Friday, May 12, 1 p.m.
Order of Exercises
Trumpet Prelude and Processional
Pomp and Circumstance, Sir Edward Elgar
Call to Commencement
Khalilah Brown-Dean, PhD
Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs
National Anthem
Cameron Chaplen ’24
Greetings
Judy D. Olian, PhD
President
Remarks
Jennifer Gerarda Brown
Dean of the School of Law
Introduction of Commencement Speaker
W. John Thomas
Professor of Law
Commencement Address
The Honorable Victor Allen Bolden
United States District Court, District of Connecticut
Presentation of Candidates for Degrees and Conferral of Hoods
Jennifer Gerarda Brown
Mark E. Schroeder
Associate Dean
Hooders:
-
Robert Farrell, Professor of Law, Professor of the Year
-
Neal Feigenson, Professor of Law
-
Sheila Hayre, Clinical Professor of Law
Conferral of Degrees
Judy D. Olian
Remarks
Hugh T. Sokolski Jr., JD ’23
President, Student Bar Association
Robert Farrell
Professor of the Year
Alumni Welcome
Adam Swanson, JD ’08
Partner, McCarter & English
Recessional
Amor Vittorioso | G. Gastoldi
March | A. Valenti
Honorable Victor A. Bolden
School of Law Ceremony | Friday, May 12, 1 p.m.
Judge Victor A. Bolden was sworn in as a United States District Judge on Jan. 7, 2015, after being nominated by President Barack Obama. He received his A.B. from Columbia College in 1986 and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School in 1989. After graduating from law school, Judge Bolden served as a Marvin Karpatkin Fellow for one year and then as a staff attorney for more than four years with the American Civil Liberties Union Foundation's National Legal Department. He served as an assistant counsel with the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund from 1994-2000. He then joined the law firm of Wiggin and Dana in New Haven before returning to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund to serve as its general counsel. In 2009, he was appointed the corporation counsel for the City of New Haven, and served in that position until Dec. 31, 2014.
A Message from the President
Congratulations to the Class of 2023 as you celebrate the culmination of three years of hard work and a steadfast commitment to your dream. As whole lawyers who retain their personal values and sense of self while becoming skilled practitioners, you are well prepared to become leaders in your community and to advance social justice — both within and beyond the sphere of your practice.
As graduates of the Quinnipiac University School of Law, you have learned from a distinguished faculty and a committed staff. You also have learned from each other during this transformative time in your lives. Please stay connected to the Bobcat community and continue to draw upon the many friendships and mentorships you have formed here.
Your talent, drive, and purpose are sure to impact many and to make the world a better and more equitable place. Enjoy this day with your families, friends, and others who have helped you reach this milestone. Together, we are cheering for you, with utmost pride.
Warmly
Judy D. Olian
A Message from Dean Brown
Congratulations to the Class of 2023. As you embark upon your careers, I’m confident that you’re graduating fully prepared for the responsibilities that lie ahead, whether you’ll be working at a law firm, clerking for a judge, or lending your voice to the fight for social justice.
So much has happened during your time at Quinnipiac; collectively, we have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and newly energized movements for gender and racial justice that have swept our nation. Through it all, you’ve worked hard, you’ve mastered the law, and you have grown — emotionally and intellectually — to become “whole lawyers” who will serve your clients and communities effectively, ethically, and empathetically.
On behalf of the entire faculty and staff at Quinnipiac Law, I wish you long and meaningful careers and much success.
Kindest wishes,
Jennifer Gerarda Brown
Graduate’s Professional Oath
I am leaving the academic community of Quinnipiac University School of Law and embarking on a professional career. As a law student and future lawyer I understand that the study and practice of law carry both privileges and responsibilities. I willingly accept the responsibilities that accompany those privileges and the responsibilities that the faculty, the bench, the bar and the public entrust to me.
I promise to do my utmost to adhere to the ideals of the legal profession and to uphold the highest standards of professional honesty and ethical practice during my career. I will remember that my actions reflect not only on me, but upon Quinnipiac University School of Law, my fellow alumni and the legal profession.
To strengthen the legal community, I will conduct myself with dignity and civility and will treat all of my colleagues with kindness and respect.
I will conduct my professional and personal life so as to uphold the values and standards that are expressed in the Rules of Professional Conduct and the traditions of the legal profession.
Doctoral Hooding Ceremony
The 12th and 13th centuries saw the formation of universities under the jurisdiction of the Church. Most students of the day were clerks in the Holy Order, monks or priests. Cowls or hoods adorned their habits and protected the young scholars from harsh weather and the pervading dampness of the stone buildings in which they studied. Hoods also served to cover tonsured heads before the use of the skullcap.
Today, the cap, gown and hood have taken on a symbolic meaning. Color and shape conform to an academic code signifying a university’s conferral of the degree and the nature of the degree conferred. Gowns for the doctoral degree carry velvet panels and three horizontal velvet bars on the upper arm of the full, round, bell-shaped sleeves.
Mace and Medallion
The mace — a symbol of authority — has antecedents in both Roman and Medieval history. The Roman mace (fasces) was carried by a lictor before the chief magistrate of the city, as well as before the legions. During the Middle Ages, the mace (mateola), a weapon of war, became first a symbol of victory and then a symbol of authority. The mace emblazoned with the Great Seal of England became a symbol of authority in Parliament by the end of the 13th century. It is this form of the mace that was the prototype of those symbols of authority, not only of legislative bodies, but also of cities and universities.
In 1246, following some 20 years of strife, the University of Paris was finally conceded the right to its own common seal. Since then, the use of the seal engraved on the mace has come to symbolize the authority of the academic community. In July 2000, Quinnipiac commissioned the noted sculptor Robert Meyer of Westport, Connecticut, to design and execute a new mace for Quinnipiac University. Cast in bronze, the mace incorporates elements of the university seal.
The medallion (medal of office), like the mace and the seal, is also a symbol of authority. It is possible that its roots may be traced back to the Roman “bulla” (a gold amulet of honor). The obverse of the medallion shows the seal of the office the wearer holds — in our case, the seal of the university. Not infrequently, the reverse would show the personal seal or coat of arms of the bearer. Since the High Middle Ages, the medallion has been worn by such officials as the chancellors of England, mayors of cities, and rectors of universities, and came to signify the high personal position such figures occupied in their respective governments. During the Renaissance, medallion design reached unique artistic heights, and in certain portraits the medallion was given particular prominence. The medallion is worn by the university’s president. The Quinnipiac medal showcases the university seal, sculpted in relief and cast in bronze.
Friday, May 12, 5 p.m.
Order of Exercises
Trumpet Prelude and Processional
Pomp and Circumstance, Sir Edward Elgar
Call to Commencement
Phillip M. Boiselle, MD
Dean of the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine
National Anthem
Anoush Calikyan, MD ‘23
Greetings
Judy D. Olian, PhD
President
Dean’s Remarks
Phillip M. Boiselle, MD
Introduction of Commencement Speaker
Lyuba Konopasek, MD
Senior Associate Dean for Education
Commencement Address
Malika Fair, MD
Senior Director of Health Equity Partnerships and Programs at the Association of American Medical Colleges
Presentation of Candidates for Medical Degrees and Conferral of Hoods
Phillip M. Boiselle
Renu Boatright, MD
Assistant Dean for Student Affairs
Conferral of Degrees
Judy D. Olian
Student Remarks
Whitney L’nicole Nichols, MD ’23
QU Netter Physician’s Pledge
Lyuba Konopasek
Alumni Welcome
Jeanna Doherty ’94
Chair, Alumni Association Board
Recessional
Amor Vittorioso | G. Gastoldi
March | A. Valenti
Malika Fair, MD, MPH
Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine Ceremony | Friday, May 12, 5 p.m.
Malika Fair, MD, MPH, is the senior director of equity and social accountability at the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). In this role, Dr. Fair develops programs and initiatives with multidisciplinary partners and local communities to advance equity, racial justice, population health and accountability in academic medicine. Her work assists the academic medicine community in becoming anti-racist leaders who acknowledge and understand systemic racial inequities and cultivate evidence-based policies and practices that promote racial justice and equity in our communities, education and research institutions, and healthcare systems. She is also an associate clinical professor of emergency medicine at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dr. Fair completed her residency training and chief residency at Carolinas Medical Center, received her medical and Master of Public Health degrees from the University of Michigan, and her bachelor’s degree from Stanford University.
A Message from the President
Congratulations to the Class of 2023 as you celebrate the culmination of four years of hard work and a steadfast commitment to your dream. As you embark on residencies in 24 states and 16 different specialties and subspecialties, you are well prepared to be leaders in your community and to practice truly compassionate, patient-centered healthcare.
As graduates of Quinnipiac University’s Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, you have learned from a distinguished faculty and a committed staff. You also have learned valuable lessons from each other during this transformative time. Please stay connected to the QU Netter community and continue to enjoy the many friendships and mentorships you have nurtured here.
Your talent, drive and purpose are sure to impact many and to make the world a better and more equitable place for all. Enjoy this day with your families, friends and others who have helped you reach this milestone. Together, we are cheering for you, with utmost pride.
Warmly
Judy D. Olian
A Message from Dean Boiselle
Congratulations to the Class of 2023 on your remarkable achievement!
As members of the seventh graduating class of the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, you have faced unprecedented challenges amid the pandemic with an admirable combination of grace and grit. Throughout these challenges, you have kept your focus on caring for the needs of our patients, our community and one another.
You are graduating at a watershed moment of opportunity for greater health equity and are poised to help lead these efforts in the communities in which you serve.
As part of a new generation of physicians, you are beacons of light, beacons of hope and beacons of healing to a world that desperately needs doctors like you: diverse, compassionate, equity-minded and patient-centered. And, as you go forth as doctors, you will help fulfill our school’s vision of painting a brighter healthcare future for all — one brushstroke and one patient at a time.
As members of the QU Netter family, I encourage you to stay connected with us. Please share news of your successes and allow us to support you on your respective journeys.
Good luck and Godspeed!
Phillip Boiselle, MD
Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine Physician’s Pledge
AS A MEMBER OF THE MEDICAL PROFESSION:
-
I SOLEMNLY PLEDGE to dedicate my life to the service of humanity;
-
THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF MY PATIENT will be my first consideration;
-
I WILL RESPECT the autonomy and dignity of my patient;
-
I WILL MAINTAIN the utmost respect for human life;
-
I WILL NOT PERMIT considerations of age, disease or disability, creed, ethnic origin, gender, nationality, political affiliation, race, sexual orientation, social standing or any other factor to intervene between my duty and my patient;
-
I WILL ADVOCATE for social, economic, educational, and political changes that ameliorate suffering and contribute to the well-being of my patients and the communities I serve;
-
I WILL RESPECT the secrets that are confided in me, even after the patient has died;
-
I WILL PRACTICE my profession with conscience and dignity and in accordance with good medical practice;
-
I WILL FOSTER the honor and noble traditions of the medical profession;
-
I WILL GIVE to my teachers, colleagues, and students the respect and gratitude that is their due;
-
I WILL SHARE my medical knowledge for the benefit of the patient and the advancement of healthcare;
-
I WILL ATTEND TO my own health, well-being, and abilities in order to provide care of the highest standard;
-
I WILL NOT USE my medical knowledge to violate human rights and civil liberties, even under threat;
-
I MAKE THESE PROMISES solemnly, freely, and upon my honor.
Adapted from the WMA Declaration of Geneva Updated October 2017 (The Physician’s Pledge) and the AMA Declaration of Professional Responsibility
Doctoral Hooding Ceremony
The 12th and 13th centuries saw the formation of universities under the jurisdiction of the Church. Most students of the day were clerks in the Holy Order, monks or priests. Cowls or hoods adorned their habits and protected the young scholars from harsh weather and the pervading dampness of the stone buildings in which they studied. Hoods also served to cover tonsured heads before the use of the skullcap.
Today, the cap, gown and hood have taken on a symbolic meaning. Color and shape conform to an academic code signifying a university’s conferral of the degree and the nature of the degree conferred. Gowns for the doctoral degree carry velvet panels and three horizontal velvet bars on the upper arm of the full, round, bell-shaped sleeves.
Mace and Medallion
The mace — a symbol of authority — has antecedents in both Roman and Medieval history. The Roman mace (fasces) was carried by a lictor before the chief magistrate of the city, as well as before the legions. During the Middle Ages, the mace (mateola), a weapon of war, became first a symbol of victory and then a symbol of authority. The mace emblazoned with the Great Seal of England became a symbol of authority in Parliament by the end of the 13th century. It is this form of the mace that was the prototype of those symbols of authority, not only of legislative bodies, but also of cities and universities.
In 1246, following some 20 years of strife, the University of Paris was finally conceded the right to its own common seal. Since then, the use of the seal engraved on the mace has come to symbolize the authority of the academic community. In July 2000, Quinnipiac commissioned the noted sculptor Robert Meyer of Westport, Connecticut, to design and execute a new mace for Quinnipiac University. Cast in bronze, the mace incorporates elements of the university seal.
The medallion (medal of office), like the mace and the seal, is also a symbol of authority. It is possible that its roots may be traced back to the Roman “bulla” (a gold amulet of honor). The obverse of the medallion shows the seal of the office the wearer holds — in our case, the seal of the university. Not infrequently, the reverse would show the personal seal or coat of arms of the bearer. Since the High Middle Ages, the medallion has been worn by such officials as the chancellors of England, mayors of cities, and rectors of universities, and came to signify the high personal position such figures occupied in their respective governments. During the Renaissance, medallion design reached unique artistic heights, and in certain portraits the medallion was given particular prominence. The medallion is worn by the university’s president. The Quinnipiac medal showcases the university seal, sculpted in relief and cast in bronze.
Live Now
Order of Exercises
School of Business
School of Computing and Engineering
10 a.m.
Trumpet Prelude and Processional
Pomp and Circumstance, Sir Edward Elgar
Call to Commencement
Khalilah Brown-Dean, PhD
Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs
National Anthem
Shelby Bakker, MBA ’23
Greetings
Judy D. Olian, PhD
President
Welcome from the Class of 2023
Cameron James Davignon, MBA ’23
Response of the Class of 2023
Hephzibah Rajan, BS ’23
Introduction of Commencement Speaker
Dr. Tamilla Triantoro
Associate Professor of Business Analytics and Information Systems, Faculty Coordinator of Master's in Business Analytics Program
Commencement Address
Jill Mayer
Chief Executive Officer, Bead Industries
Presentation of Candidates for Degrees and Awards
School of Business: Holly Raider, PhD, Dean
School of Computing and Engineering: Taskin Kocak, PhD, Dean
Conferral of Degrees
Judy D. Olian
Alumni Welcome
Jeanna Doherty ’94
Chair, Alumni Association Board
Recessional
Amor Vittorioso | G. Gastoldi
March | A. Valenti
Jill Mayer
School of Business and School of Computing and Engineering Undergraduate and Graduate Ceremony | Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m.
Jill Mayer is the CEO of Bead Industries Inc., a Milford, Connecticut-based company that is comprised of two divisions: Bead Chain and Bead Electronics, and a wholly-owned subsidiary, McGuire Mfg. Company. As its fifth-generation leader, Mayer has built upon the family legacy by transforming the organizational culture through innovation, shared purpose and accountability. A recognized voice in the small-business community, Mayer was named to the National Small Business Association Leadership Council in March. NSBA is the nation’s oldest small-business advocacy organization and operates on a strictly nonpartisan basis. In addition to serving on the executive board of directors for ManufactureCT and the board of Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA), Jill is also active in Vistage and Women in Manufacturing. In 2019, she was recognized as one of Connecticut Magazine’s 40 Under 40.
She holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Vermont and a Master of Science from Champlain College.
A Message from the President
Congratulations to the Class of 2023! You are well prepared to continue your life journey as professionals who will impact the world and the workplaces of tomorrow. We are confident you will apply your talent, passion and education to serve boldly as engaged citizens in your communities — and beyond. These qualities are at your core and will continue to propel you well into the future.
As graduates of Quinnipiac University, you have learned from a distinguished faculty and a committed staff who proudly stand beside you today. You also have learned valuable lessons from each other during this most transformative time in your lives. Please stay connected to our Bobcat family, visit us often, and draw upon the many friendships and mentorships you have formed here.
This day is shared with your families and friends, those who also deserve special recognition and appreciation for their contributions to your success. Enjoy this momentous achievement! Together, we are cheering for you, with utmost pride.
Warmly
Judy D. Olian
Mace and Medallion
The mace — a symbol of authority — has antecedents in both Roman and Medieval history. The Roman mace (fasces) was carried by a lictor before the chief magistrate of the city, as well as before the legions. During the Middle Ages, the mace (mateola), a weapon of war, became first a symbol of victory and then a symbol of authority. The mace emblazoned with the Great Seal of England became a symbol of authority in Parliament by the end of the 13th century. It is this form of the mace that was the prototype of those symbols of authority, not only of legislative bodies, but also of cities and universities.
In 1246, following some 20 years of strife, the University of Paris was finally conceded the right to its own common seal. Since then, the use of the seal engraved on the mace has come to symbolize the authority of the academic community. In July 2000, Quinnipiac commissioned the noted sculptor Robert Meyer of Westport, Connecticut, to design and execute a new mace for Quinnipiac University. Cast in bronze, the mace incorporates elements of the university seal.
The medallion (medal of office), like the mace and the seal, is also a symbol of authority. It is possible that its roots may be traced back to the Roman “bulla” (a gold amulet of honor). The obverse of the medallion shows the seal of the office the wearer holds — in our case, the seal of the university. Not infrequently, the reverse would show the personal seal or coat of arms of the bearer. Since the High Middle Ages, the medallion has been worn by such officials as the chancellors of England, mayors of cities, and rectors of universities, and came to signify the high personal position such figures occupied in their respective governments. During the Renaissance, medallion design reached unique artistic heights, and in certain portraits the medallion was given particular prominence. The medallion is worn by the university’s president. The Quinnipiac medal showcases the university seal, sculpted in relief and cast in bronze.
Saturday, May 13, 3 p.m.
Order of Exercises
School of Health Sciences
3 p.m.
Trumpet Prelude and Processional
Pomp and Circumstance, Sir Edward Elgar
Call to Commencement
Khalilah Brown-Dean, PhD
Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs
National Anthem
Paige Pezzella ’24
Greetings
Judy D. Olian, PhD
President
Welcome from the Class of 2023
Bobbi Ames Dynice, MSOT ’23
Response of the Class of 2023
Vincent Gabriel Pedulla, BS ’23
Introduction of Commencement Speaker
Clotilde Dudley-Smith
Director of Health Science Program, Director of Health Science Online Degree Completion Program
Commencement Address
Arthur Caplan, PhD
Drs. William F. and Virginia Connolly Mitty Professor of Bioethics, New York University
Presentation of Candidates for Degrees and Awards
Janelle Chiasera, PhD
Dean
Conferral of Degrees
Judy D. Olian
Alumni Welcome
Jeanna Doherty ’94
Chair, Alumni Association Board
Recessional
Amor Vittorioso | G. Gastoldi
March | A. Valenti
Arthur L. Caplan, PhD
School of Health Sciences Undergraduate and Graduate Ceremony | Saturday, May 13, 3 p.m.
Arthur L. Caplan, PhD, is one of the most influential voices in the field of bioethics. Since 2012, he has served as a professor of bioethics at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, the latest stop in a long and distinguished academic career. A fixture on the cable news circuit and a frequent contributor to major print media outlets, Dr. Caplan is never shy about voicing an opinion when it comes to medical trends — usually with a healthy dose of wit. He has written or edited 35 books and has published over 800 papers in peer-reviewed journals. He received his bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts, and went on to earn a Master of Arts, a Master of Philosophy and a PhD from Columbia University. Born in Boston, he now resides in New York City with his wife, Meg.
A Message from the President
Congratulations to the Class of 2023! You are well prepared to continue your life journey as professionals who will impact the world and the workplaces of tomorrow. We are confident you will apply your talent, passion and education to serve boldly as engaged citizens in your communities — and beyond. These qualities are at your core and will continue to propel you well into the future.
As graduates of Quinnipiac University, you have learned from a distinguished faculty and a committed staff who proudly stand beside you today. You also have learned valuable lessons from each other during this most transformative time in your lives. Please stay connected to our Bobcat family, visit us often, and draw upon the many friendships and mentorships you have formed here.
This day is shared with your families and friends, those who also deserve special recognition and appreciation for their contributions to your success. Enjoy this momentous achievement! Together, we are cheering for you, with utmost pride.
Warmly
Judy D. Olian
Mace and Medallion
The mace — a symbol of authority — has antecedents in both Roman and Medieval history. The Roman mace (fasces) was carried by a lictor before the chief magistrate of the city, as well as before the legions. During the Middle Ages, the mace (mateola), a weapon of war, became first a symbol of victory and then a symbol of authority. The mace emblazoned with the Great Seal of England became a symbol of authority in Parliament by the end of the 13th century. It is this form of the mace that was the prototype of those symbols of authority, not only of legislative bodies, but also of cities and universities.
In 1246, following some 20 years of strife, the University of Paris was finally conceded the right to its own common seal. Since then, the use of the seal engraved on the mace has come to symbolize the authority of the academic community. In July 2000, Quinnipiac commissioned the noted sculptor Robert Meyer of Westport, Connecticut, to design and execute a new mace for Quinnipiac University. Cast in bronze, the mace incorporates elements of the university seal.
The medallion (medal of office), like the mace and the seal, is also a symbol of authority. It is possible that its roots may be traced back to the Roman “bulla” (a gold amulet of honor). The obverse of the medallion shows the seal of the office the wearer holds — in our case, the seal of the university. Not infrequently, the reverse would show the personal seal or coat of arms of the bearer. Since the High Middle Ages, the medallion has been worn by such officials as the chancellors of England, mayors of cities, and rectors of universities, and came to signify the high personal position such figures occupied in their respective governments. During the Renaissance, medallion design reached unique artistic heights, and in certain portraits the medallion was given particular prominence. The medallion is worn by the university’s president. The Quinnipiac medal showcases the university seal, sculpted in relief and cast in bronze.
Doctoral Hooding Ceremony
The 12th and 13th centuries saw the formation of universities under the jurisdiction of the Church. Most students of the day were clerks in the Holy Order, monks or priests. Cowls or hoods adorned their habits and protected the young scholars from harsh weather and the pervading dampness of the stone buildings in which they studied. Hoods also served to cover tonsured heads before the use of the skullcap.
Today, the cap, gown and hood have taken on a symbolic meaning. Color and shape conform to an academic code signifying a university’s conferral of the degree and the nature of the degree conferred. Gowns for the doctoral degree carry velvet panels and three horizontal velvet bars on the upper arm of the full, round, bell-shaped sleeves.
Sunday, May 14, 10 a.m.
Order of Exercises
College of Arts & Sciences
School of Communications
10 a.m.
Trumpet Prelude and Processional
Pomp and Circumstance, Sir Edward Elgar
Call to Commencement
Tom Ellett, PhD
Chief Experience Officer
National Anthem
Emily Kane, BA ’23
Greetings
Judy D. Olian, PhD
President
Welcome from the Class of 2023
Jamie Nicole Manley, MA ’23
Response of the Class of 2023
Giavanna Carmela Ragon, BA ’23
Introduction of Commencement Speaker
Richard Hanley
Associate Professor of Journalism
Commencement Address
Dennis House
Chief Political Anchor, Evening News Anchor, WTNH-TV News 8
Presentation of Candidates for Degrees and Awards
College of Arts and Sciences: Adam Roth, PhD, Dean
School of Communications: Chris Roush, MS, Dean
Conferral of Degrees
Judy D. Olian
Alumni Welcome
Pamela Martinez ’86
Board Member, Alumni Association
Recessional
Amor Vittorioso | G. Gastoldi
March | A. Valenti
Dennis House
School of Communications and College of Arts and Sciences Undergraduate and Graduate Ceremony | Sunday, May 14, 10 a.m.
WTNH evening news anchor Dennis House has been a friendly face on television screens in Connecticut for over three decades. Across his award-winning career as an anchor and political reporter, House has interviewed U.S. Presidents, moderated political debates, emceed countless charity events and reported live news hits from presidential inaugurations, the World Series and the Final Four. He’s been a steadying presence for Connecticut viewers during tragedies and natural disasters. Prior to his time at WTNH, he spent more than 20 years broadcasting the evening news at WFSB alongside his friend and longtime co-anchor, the late Denise D’Ascenzo. House received his bachelor’s degree in foreign affairs from Assumption College before he got his start in broadcast journalism at WPRI-TV in Providence, Rhode Island. Originally from Norwood, Massachusetts, he now lives in Hartford with his wife, Kara Sundlun, a fellow TV news anchor, and their children, Helena and Julian.
A Message from the President
Congratulations to the Class of 2023! You are well prepared to continue your life journey as professionals who will impact the world and the workplaces of tomorrow. We are confident you will apply your talent, passion and education to serve boldly as engaged citizens in your communities — and beyond. These qualities are at your core and will continue to propel you well into the future.
As graduates of Quinnipiac University, you have learned from a distinguished faculty and a committed staff who proudly stand beside you today. You also have learned valuable lessons from each other during this most transformative time in your lives. Please stay connected to our Bobcat family, visit us often, and draw upon the many friendships and mentorships you have formed here.
This day is shared with your families and friends, those who also deserve special recognition and appreciation for their contributions to your success. Enjoy this momentous achievement! Together, we are cheering for you, with utmost pride.
Warmly
Judy D. Olian
Mace and Medallion
The mace — a symbol of authority — has antecedents in both Roman and Medieval history. The Roman mace (fasces) was carried by a lictor before the chief magistrate of the city, as well as before the legions. During the Middle Ages, the mace (mateola), a weapon of war, became first a symbol of victory and then a symbol of authority. The mace emblazoned with the Great Seal of England became a symbol of authority in Parliament by the end of the 13th century. It is this form of the mace that was the prototype of those symbols of authority, not only of legislative bodies, but also of cities and universities.
In 1246, following some 20 years of strife, the University of Paris was finally conceded the right to its own common seal. Since then, the use of the seal engraved on the mace has come to symbolize the authority of the academic community. In July 2000, Quinnipiac commissioned the noted sculptor Robert Meyer of Westport, Connecticut, to design and execute a new mace for Quinnipiac University. Cast in bronze, the mace incorporates elements of the university seal.
The medallion (medal of office), like the mace and the seal, is also a symbol of authority. It is possible that its roots may be traced back to the Roman “bulla” (a gold amulet of honor). The obverse of the medallion shows the seal of the office the wearer holds — in our case, the seal of the university. Not infrequently, the reverse would show the personal seal or coat of arms of the bearer. Since the High Middle Ages, the medallion has been worn by such officials as the chancellors of England, mayors of cities, and rectors of universities, and came to signify the high personal position such figures occupied in their respective governments. During the Renaissance, medallion design reached unique artistic heights, and in certain portraits the medallion was given particular prominence. The medallion is worn by the university’s president. The Quinnipiac medal showcases the university seal, sculpted in relief and cast in bronze.
Sunday, May 14, 3 p.m.
Order of Exercises
School of Education
School of Nursing
3 p.m.
Trumpet Prelude and Processional
Pomp and Circumstance, Sir Edward Elgar
Call to Commencement
Tom Ellett, PhD
Chief Experience Officer
National Anthem
Mia Calore, BSN ’23
Greetings
Judy D. Olian, PhD
President
Welcome from the Class of 2023
Paul Elliot Benjamin, MS ’23
Response of the Class of 2023
Michael Brawley Cunningham, BSN ’23
Introduction of Commencement Speaker
Liana Kappus
Director of Simulation
Commencement Address
Rocco Orlando, MD
Chief Academic Officer, Hartford HealthCare
Presentation of Candidates for Degrees and Awards
School of Education: Anne Dichele, PhD, Dean
School of Nursing: Lisa O’Connor, EdD, Dean
Conferral of Degrees
Judy D. Olian
Alumni Welcome
Pamela Martinez ’86
Board Member, Alumni Association
Recessional
Amor Vittorioso | G. Gastoldi
March | A. Valenti
Rocco Orlando, MD
School of Education and School of Nursing Undergraduate and Graduate Ceremony | Sunday, May 14, 3 p.m.
As the first chief medical officer for Hartford HealthCare, Rocco Orlando III, MD, directed and assisted clinical staff in their efforts to achieve national pre-eminence in patient quality and safety, as well as creating seamless care coordination across the network. His extensive experience includes multiple internships before completing his residency at Hartford Hospital. Dr. Orlando also participated in a fellowship at the University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Hospital. He is a member of numerous professional societies and was named a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. With a national reputation for research and clinical excellence, Dr. Orlando has delivered more than 100 medical presentations internationally and across the United States, while also writing and contributing to more than 50 medical publications, abstracts and book chapters. He received his medical degree from the University of Connecticut’s School of Medicine and his undergraduate degree from Hamilton College in Clinton, New York.
A Message from the President
Congratulations to the Class of 2023! You are well prepared to continue your life journey as professionals who will impact the world and the workplaces of tomorrow. We are confident you will apply your talent, passion and education to serve boldly as engaged citizens in your communities — and beyond. These qualities are at your core and will continue to propel you well into the future.
As graduates of Quinnipiac University, you have learned from a distinguished faculty and a committed staff who proudly stand beside you today. You also have learned valuable lessons from each other during this most transformative time in your lives. Please stay connected to our Bobcat family, visit us often, and draw upon the many friendships and mentorships you have formed here.
This day is shared with your families and friends, those who also deserve special recognition and appreciation for their contributions to your success. Enjoy this momentous achievement! Together, we are cheering for you, with utmost pride.
Warmly
Judy D. Olian
Mace and Medallion
The mace — a symbol of authority — has antecedents in both Roman and Medieval history. The Roman mace (fasces) was carried by a lictor before the chief magistrate of the city, as well as before the legions. During the Middle Ages, the mace (mateola), a weapon of war, became first a symbol of victory and then a symbol of authority. The mace emblazoned with the Great Seal of England became a symbol of authority in Parliament by the end of the 13th century. It is this form of the mace that was the prototype of those symbols of authority, not only of legislative bodies, but also of cities and universities.
In 1246, following some 20 years of strife, the University of Paris was finally conceded the right to its own common seal. Since then, the use of the seal engraved on the mace has come to symbolize the authority of the academic community. In July 2000, Quinnipiac commissioned the noted sculptor Robert Meyer of Westport, Connecticut, to design and execute a new mace for Quinnipiac University. Cast in bronze, the mace incorporates elements of the university seal.
The medallion (medal of office), like the mace and the seal, is also a symbol of authority. It is possible that its roots may be traced back to the Roman “bulla” (a gold amulet of honor). The obverse of the medallion shows the seal of the office the wearer holds — in our case, the seal of the university. Not infrequently, the reverse would show the personal seal or coat of arms of the bearer. Since the High Middle Ages, the medallion has been worn by such officials as the chancellors of England, mayors of cities, and rectors of universities, and came to signify the high personal position such figures occupied in their respective governments. During the Renaissance, medallion design reached unique artistic heights, and in certain portraits the medallion was given particular prominence. The medallion is worn by the university’s president. The Quinnipiac medal showcases the university seal, sculpted in relief and cast in bronze.
Doctoral Hooding Ceremony
The 12th and 13th centuries saw the formation of universities under the jurisdiction of the Church. Most students of the day were clerks in the Holy Order, monks or priests. Cowls or hoods adorned their habits and protected the young scholars from harsh weather and the pervading dampness of the stone buildings in which they studied. Hoods also served to cover tonsured heads before the use of the skullcap.
Today, the cap, gown and hood have taken on a symbolic meaning. Color and shape conform to an academic code signifying a university’s conferral of the degree and the nature of the degree conferred. Gowns for the doctoral degree carry velvet panels and three horizontal velvet bars on the upper arm of the full, round, bell-shaped sleeves.
