News Story
May 11, 2024
La Roche University Holds 58th Commencement
PITTSBURGH, May 11, 2024 – Today La Roche University honored graduates at the 58th commencement in the Kerr Fitness & Sports Center.
The University conferred 364 degrees, including 169 master’s degrees, 189 bachelor’s degrees and six at the associate level. Twenty-two countries were represented in the 2024 graduating class.
Interim President Howard J. Ishiyama, Ph.D., told the graduates, “How this opportunity manifests in your lifetime is up to you. Lift others up, raise a beautiful family, have a wonderful career, whatever you choose…but today, this day, your life will change. Remember what you learned at La Roche and continue to build on that knowledge and ability throughout your life.”
Angela M. Reynolds, Ph.D., chief executive officer of YWCA Greater Pittsburgh, delivered the commencement address and received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters.
Dr. Reynolds asked graduates to reflect on the question, “What is your what?” She explained, “Your ‘why’ will help you get through the doors of life’s opportunity, your ‘what’ will guide your actions once you’re there.”
Dr. Reynolds also encouraged graduates to know their ROI – Reach, Opportunity and Impact.
She continued, “There will be times when you are the one that needs an opportunity opened, and there will be times when you will be able to open up opportunities for others,” she told the graduates. “The question is, with your La Roche degree, what will you do in those different positions? When presented with the chance to create opportunity, will you ensure inclusivity? Will you have compassion? When those opportunities are opened for you, will you take advantage of them and then own your place in that room?”
During the ceremony, La Roche awarded Ashley Krivansky the 2024 President’s Award for Leadership and Scholarship.
Recipients of the President’s Awards for Leadership and Scholarship Award exemplify the values and characteristics of the La Roche mission statement, have exemplary academic records, and are leaders on campus, in the workplace and in the community.
Ms. Krivansky, of North Huntingdon, PA, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in PreK-4 Education with PreK-12 Special Education.
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About La Roche University: A private liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 68 undergraduate programs of study, seven master’s degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying 30-plus student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.