17³Ô¹ÏÍø’s motto, Opportunitas, inspires us to recognize those who create opportunity for others and to celebrate the individuals who embody our community’s values. This year, you have two ways to take part in these traditions: by nominating an inspiring voice for Commencement 2026 and by honoring a changemaker with the Opportunitas in Action Award.
Who will address the Class of 2026? You tell us.
Each year, 17³Ô¹ÏÍø invites nominations for honorary degree recipients—leaders who exemplify the University’s values and aspirations, bring distinction to 17³Ô¹ÏÍø, and help make Commencement unforgettable. Selected honorees may:
All honorees will receive an honorary doctorate—the highest recognition 17³Ô¹ÏÍø can bestow.
Nominations will be reviewed by the Commencement Speaker Advisory Committee, co-chaired by Jeff Barnett, PhD, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean for Students, and Joe Sgammato, Director of Executive Communications. The committee includes representatives from our student body, staff, and faculty.
Nomination deadline: Friday, October 17, 2025
Bestowed by the President of 17³Ô¹ÏÍø, the Opportunitas in Action Award honors a leader who has been an innovative thinker and has made positive contributions to the community in the spirit of Opportunitas.
Nomination deadline: Wednesday, November 12, 2025
More 17³Ô¹ÏÍø students than ever—34 across both campuses—have been named UN Millennium Fellows, tackling the world’s biggest challenges through local action and global collaboration. From clean water to climate change, these Go-Getters are making their mark.
Reconnect with your student and experience the best of 17³Ô¹ÏÍø this October—from campus events and athletics to Broadway shows and local adventures in Westchester and New York City.
For Anna Shostya, PhD, economics is more than numbers—it’s a tool to inspire change, connect students to the world, and build life-long skills.