In a year like no other, Hunter College celebrated a graduating class like no other, with 4000 students crossing the finish line to get their degree. On May 28, Hunter College President Jennifer J. Raab kicked off Hunter’s commencement season by sharing remarks with the graduating class through Hunter’s Virtual Graduation Portal.
“When COVID started you rose to the occasion and you just kept rising,” said Hunter College President Jennifer J. Raab, in remarks delivered to the 4000-strong Class of 2021. “Now the restrictions are beginning to lift and it looks like soon you will be able to take your degrees into a world that is opening up again and needs you more than ever.”
CUNY Chancellor Félix Matos Rodríguez, who also delivered remarks on the graduation portal, acknowledged the unprecedented challenges that the students faced on the path to graduation. “It is not possible to understate the scale of your accomplishment and the admiration I have for all of you," said Chancellor Rodríguez.
In addressing the graduating class, United States Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said that while he wished he could be speaking with them in person, the fact that they were celebrating commencement at all was a testament to the strength of New Yorkers. “The challenges of this moment are truly unique, but so has been our collective response,” said Schumer, adding, “nothing can take away from the fact that you earned a degree from such a fine institution of higher learning.” Listen to Senator Schumer’s full remarks.
The spring Class of 2021 had an astounding 14 valedictorians this spring, including Adina Grace Noble, who was chosen to speak on their behalf:
“During a pandemic that has taken the lives of over 3 million, we here have been given vitality,” said Noble. “May we fulfill our limitless dreams, continue to stand in the face of adversity, and truly actualize Mihi Cura Futuri (the Care of the Future is Mine).”
