Gwynedd Mercy University Celebrates its 69th Commencement Ceremony

Gwynedd Mercy University hosted its 69th Annual Commencement Ceremony, celebrating the dedication and accomplishments of 820 Distinctive Mercy Graduates earning their associates, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on Saturday, May 12, 2018. The day kicked off with a Baccalaureate Mass followed by the Commencement Ceremony.

"Today we celebrate all that you have accomplished thus far and all of the greatness that is still yet to come," said President Deanne D'Emilio in her opening remarks. "Here at GMercyU, we have a belief that education is a lifelong process that enriches the whole person - intellectually, morally, and spiritually. So while you may be graduating today, your journey is only beginning."

Commencement Speaker Sister Patricia Talone, RSM, PhD, a GMercyU alumna celebrating the 50th anniversary of her graduation, encouraged graduates to go out and change the world. The ceremony also featured Criminal Justice graduate Lisa Brown as the 2018 Student Speaker, who shared her touching story of how she conquered homelessness while raising her three children and earned her degree.

"At Gwynedd Mercy University, I have found more than a formal education," said Lisa Brown during her commencement address. "I found support, encouragement, love, and hope."

GMercyU's Class of 2018 includes graduates from 16 different states as well as from 34 different birth countries, including countries as far away as Cambodia and South Korea. The youngest graduate is 21 years old while the oldest graduate is 71 years old.

Congratulations, Gwynedd Mercy University Class of 2018!