May 05, 2018
La Roche College Honors 53rd Graduating Class
PITTSBURGH, May 5, 2018 – La Roche University honored its 2018 graduates at the 53rd commencement on Saturday, May 5.
“I wish you a lifetime of human encounters that will wow any application you may ever download to any device,” President Sister Candace Introcaso, CDP, Ph.D., told the graduates. “And I hope that you will remember to thank the many people, either in person or with an old fashioned handwritten note, who have made this day possible.”
The University conferred 381 degrees, including three doctoral, 60 master’s, 307 bachelor’s and 11 associate degrees.
Roberto Clemente Jr., global ambassador, former baseball broadcaster, former professional baseball player, philanthropist and entrepreneur, delivered the 53rd commencement address. La Roche presented Mr. Clemente Jr. with an Honorary Doctorate of Human Letters in recognition of his service to youth in Puerto Rico, Pittsburgh and abroad, and for upholding the traditions of the Catholic faith.
Mr. Clemente Jr. said, “Don't ever settle for less than being happy with what you do, regardless of the sacrifice it takes. Go out there and leave your legacy, your fingerprint in Humanity’s Heart, as I try to do every single day.”
During the ceremony the La Roche University Woman of Providence Award was presented to Sister Elsa Medina Rivera, CDP, whose life of service, as part of the mission of the Congregation of Divine Providence, is a compelling example of God’s Providence made visible.
The University also presented the President’s Awards for Leadership and Scholarship. These awards are offered to undergraduate students who exemplify the values and characteristics of the University’s mission statement, who have exemplary academic records, and who are effective leaders on campus, in the workplace or in the community.
2018 Traditional Recipient
Kristen L. Spezialetti of Aliquippa
Bachelor of Arts
English Studies: Journalism and Professional Writing
2018 Nontraditional Recipient
Denmark A. Reed of Pittsburgh
Bachelor of Science
Chemistry
About La Roche University: A private liberal arts college in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers more than 50 undergraduate majors, six graduate degree programs and one doctoral program, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, and health and medical sciences, as well as interior design and graphic design. This residential college provides a vibrant campus community for more than 1,500 men and women 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.
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