The CUNY School of Professional Studies (CUNY SPS) Black Student Union (BSU) recently hosted a festive reception for the School’s Black graduating students, marking the milestone fifth anniversary of this special event.
Held on May 15 at CUNY SPS with an accompanying livestream, the ceremony honored the hard work and outstanding accomplishments of the graduates. Centered around the theme “Rooted in Resilience: The Journey of Black and Brown Graduates,” the evening featured a series of moving speeches that highlighted perseverance, leadership, and pride in community.
The event opened with a welcome from emcee and CUNY SPS student leader Genesis Fernandez, who then introduced Dean Lisa R. Braverman. In her remarks, Dean Braverman praised the graduates for their strength and dedication.
“Today, we honor your academic achievement, your resilience, your leadership, and your shared commitment to building a more just, inclusive, and empowered future,” said Dean Braverman. “Through every late night, every challenge, and every triumph, you have shown extraordinary perseverance and brilliance. You brought your full selves to this School, enriching every course, every conversation, and every community you touched.”
She continued by reflecting on the broader significance of the moment: “This moment is not only a personal milestone—it is a legacy. You stand on the shoulders of those who came before you, and now, future students will look to you and say, I can do that too.”
Following Dean Braverman’s remarks, Fernandez introduced the keynote speaker, Errol L. Pierre, Senior Vice President of State Programs at Healthfirst and author of The Way Up: Climbing the Corporate Mountain as a Professional of Color.
Pierre (pictured at right) emphasized the role graduates now play in shaping the world around them, and offered a list of pointers for life post-graduation. “The difference between school and life? In school, you’re taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you’re given a test that teaches you a lesson,” Pierre suggested. “You are special. You have a gift for the world. You must share that gift with humanity,” he said.
Next, Professor James Richardson, former academic director of the Communication and Media program, took the stage to introduce student keynote speaker Laura Simpson. A first-generation college graduate, artist, and community leader from Harlem and the Bronx. This year, Simpson joined the CUNY SPS Class of 2025 by completing a MA in Applied Theatre.
Simpson (pictured left) delivered a powerful message about self-expression and resilience. “There is power in being a ‘Loud Black Girl.’ There’s power in showing up boldly, truthfully, and without apology. Resilience looks like chasing your dreams—even if you don’t hit someone else’s timeline.”
She added, “This is for every Black and Brown student who was told no, and chose to believe in a bigger yes. This isn’t just a graduation. This is a reclamation. We are not just finishing something—we are beginning something. We’re shaping our futures. For our communities. Our families. Our kids.”
The evening concluded with time for photos and refreshments, as attendees came together to celebrate not only academic success but also the strength of community.
About the CUNY School of Professional Studies
As New York's leading online school since 2006, the CUNY School of Professional Studies (CUNY SPS) offers the most online bachelor's and master's degree options at the City University of New York, and serves as the University's first undergraduate all-transfer college. With 26 degrees and numerous other non-degree and grant-funded workplace learning programs, CUNY SPS meets the needs of adults who wish to finish a bachelor's degree, progress from an associate's degree, earn a master's degree or certificate in a specialized field, and advance in the workplace or change careers. Consistently ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report for its online offerings, CUNY SPS has emerged as a nationwide leader in online education. The School's renowned and affordable online programs ensure that busy working adults may fulfill their educational goals on their own time and schedule.
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