National Anthem ...................................................................................................................... STU Choir
Invocation................................................................................................................... Rev. Hilary Nwainya Associate Dean School of Theology and Ministry
Provost’s Welcome and Remarks ……............................................................ Dr. Michelle Johnson Garcia
Provost and Chief Academic Officer
Message from the President................................................................................ David A. Armstrong, J.D. President
Introduction ........................................................................................... Dr. Michelle Johnson Garcia
Provost and Chief Academic Officer
Student Addresses........................................................................................................................ Rita Case
Presentation of Candidates…....................................................................................... Christtian Travieso
Conferral of Degrees........................................................................................... David A. Armstrong, J.D. President
Benediction................................................................................................................. Rev. Hilary Nwainya Associate Dean School of Theology and Ministry
ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY MISSION STATEMENT
St. Thomas University is a Catholic university with rich cultural and international diversity committed to the academic and professional success of its students who become ethical leaders in our global community.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY
The seeds of St. Thomas University were planted on August 15, 1946 in Havana, Cuba, when a group of Augustinian priests from Philadelphia, led by Italian-born Fr. Lorenzo Spirale, founded the Universidad de Villanueva, Cuba’s first private Catholic university.
Lorenzo Spirale was a poor immigrant from the Abruzzi Mountain region of Rapino, Italy. He arrived in the U.S. with three years of primary schooling and subsequently worked as a street sweeper in Philadelphia. There he was befriended by Augustinian priests. He entered the seminary, was ordained a priest and developed an illustrious career, including the founding of the Universidad de Santo Tomas de Villanueva in Havana.
At the height of its success, the Universidad de Santo Tomas de Villanueva housed renowned Schools of Education, Business, Law, Liberal Arts, Engineering, Architecture, Economics, Psychology, and Art. By 1961, however, Fidel Castro’s militia had confiscated the school’s land and expelled the Augustinian Fathers.
At approximately the same time, Bishop Coleman F. Carroll, the first Catholic prelate to lead south Florida’s Archdiocese of Miami, embarked on a journey to build a Catholic men’s college for the region. Archbishop Carroll invited the Augustinian founders of the Universidad de Santo Tomas de Villanueva to establish the college he envisioned. With a vacant lot, limited resources, and working out of their living room with a portable typewriter, Fr. Edward J. McCarthy and Fr. Robert M. Sullivan began recruiting students and faculty. With the assistance of Judge C. Clyde Atkins, the college was fully incorporated in Miami.
Biscayne College was founded through the willingness of faculty, many of whom taught at the Universidad de Santo Tomas de Villanueva in Havana, to work for small salaries and teach multiple subjects. In 1984, Biscayne College changed its name to reflect its history and pay homage to the patron Saint of the Universidad de Santo Tomas de Villanueva. Today, St. Thomas is a Catholic university with a rich heritage and culturally diverse population, dedicated to developing leaders for life.
THE TRADITION OF ACADEMIC REGALIA
The caps, gowns, and hoods worn at university functions date back to the Middle Ages, when Monks and students of those days wore them to keep warm in the damp, draft twelfth-century castles and halls of learning. In 1894 the design was standardized by the American Intercollegiate Commission; at which time it was decided that all robes would be black. Each college degree has a distinctive gown and hood. If more than one degree is held, the gown and hood of the highest degree are worn. Doctor’s gowns carry three velvet bars on full bell-shaped sleeves. The velvet trim may either be black or the color of the field of learning in which the doctorate was earned. Master’s gowns have long oblong sleeves that are open at the wrist. Bachelor’s gowns are distinguished by their full, open sleeves. Both master’s and bachelor’s wear mortar boards accompanied by a tassel. The black tassel is worn by master’s students; the bachelor’s tassel is in the color signifying the academic program, and the silver tassel is reserved for doctorate degrees. The hood worn by both doctorate and master’s professors and students is a black shell that is lined in silk with the colors of the institution conferring the degree; it is bordered with velvet of the color signifying the academic discipline in which the degree is earned.
ACADEMIC COLORS
Citron: counseling, marriage and family therapy
Drab: accounting, business, international business, executive management, fashion, finance, health management, marketing, sports administration, organizational leadership, culinary travel/hospitality management
Gold: biology, bioethics, big data analytics, chemistry, health care services, health science, human resources, human services, computer information systems, computer science, cyber security, instructional design & technology, kinesiology, mathematics, natural science, psychology
Light Blue: education, educational leadership, education specialist in administration
Midnight Blue: criminal justice, criminology, political science
Purple: law, justice administration
Red: religious studies, theology
White: english, ethical leadership, history, liberal studies, sociology
Apricot: nursing
Crimson: communication arts
THE MACE
Since the earliest times, the mace has served as a symbol of power and authority and was carried for protection. During the Middle Ages, European Universities adopted the use of the mace to symbolize the authority of the faculty over academic programs. The mace serves as a symbol of growth and prosperity of the university and the incorporation of former practices with new traditions.
The St. Thomas University Mace is crowned with the crucifix, which symbolizes our faith and servitude to God as a Catholic community. The sphere along with the carved map is a representation of the world, which further signifies the rich cultural and international diversity of our campus. Hearts are subtly positioned on the rod which reveals to the external community our tireless service. Much like the traditional mace, this mahogany staff embodies the strength of our institution, while personifying the life and continuous expansion of our academic traditions.
The Most Reverend Thomas G. Wenski
Dear Graduates:
As you complete your studies, I join your families and friends in extending heartfelt congratulations.
Today’s graduation is the culmination of your dedicated study, personal growth, and ever-deepening relationship with Almighty God, the fountain of all Truth. It is my hope that it will also be a day of commencement as you put into practice the many good things you have learned at St. Thomas University – now to be your alma mater – and thereby build up the common good for all in our society.
May the Lord continue to bless you and your loved ones abundantly.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Thomas G. Wenski Archbishop of the Archdioceses of Miami
David A. Armstrong, J.D.
Dear St. Thomas University Graduates,
On behalf of the faculty, staff, and board of trustees of St. Thomas University, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your academic achievement. Reaching this educational milestone is a significant accomplishment, and your hard work as a student will pay great dividends in the future. We are proud of you, and join your family and friends in celebrating your success!
Commencement marks a new beginning, not an ending. Today, you embark on the beginning of a journey towards leadership and success, and you also officially become a member of the St. Thomas University Alumni. I look forward to welcoming you back to campus as distinguished alumni, perhaps in this very venue or at future alumni gatherings in Florida and beyond. Please keep us updated with your significant life events, as we are proud of your accomplishments here on campus and look forward to hearing your good news in the future.
As you become outstanding ethical leaders in the global community, I hope that you will hold dear the values that have been reinforced time and again during your time here at STU, and that you always live with an attitude of gratitude. I wish you every success in your personal and professional lives. Enjoy this momentous occasion!
God Bless and Go BOBCATS!
Sincerely,
David A. Armstrong, J.D. President
Greta Woods
Greta Woods is a graduating senior from St. Thomas University, earning her degree in Communications. Throughout her undergraduate career, Greta has exemplified leadership and dedication both inside and outside the classroom. For three years, she served as a Resident Assistant, quickly advancing to roles as a Resident Director and Lead RA, where she fostered community and supported her peers.
An accomplished student-athlete, Greta proudly played lacrosse on scholarship for three seasons, a commitment recognized with the prestigious “Silver Bobcat” award at the university’s annual Bobcat Awards. She is also a proud member of the Honors College, demonstrating a profound commitment to academic excellence.
Following graduation, Greta will continue her journey at St. Thomas University, pursuing her master’s degree in the spring. Her experiences have shaped her belief in the power of service, resilience, and impactful communication, values she looks forward to sharing with the Class of 2025.
Jorge Gabriel Fernandez Ogaza
Jorge Gabriel Fernández Ogaza, the first St. Thomas University student to earn a Master of Accounting with a specialization in Public Accounting, was born and raised in Cuba, where he developed a passion for analytical thinking and discipline that guided his professional journey. After earning his bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Havana in 2011, he built an international career across Cuba, Argentina, Spain, and the United States, gaining valuable experience working under both International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
His professional background includes roles in financial reporting, auditing, budgeting, and tax compliance across industries such as professional services, manufacturing, and logistics, always striving to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Jorge currently serves as an Accounting Associate at Professional Office Services of Broward.
Outside of work, he values teamwork, faith, and community engagement—playing softball in both the Cuban American Softball League, which is connected to a church in Hialeah, and in Hollywood local leagues with the Jewish community, while also volunteering in beach cleanups. Guided by perseverance, humility, and ethical integrity, he looks forward to expanding his knowledge in data analytics, the trading market, and entrepreneurship, with the goal of achieving long-term professional and personal growth.
RICK
CASE
RITA CASE
AUTOMOTIVE GROUP
President, CEO and Owner
Rita Case is the President, CEO and Owner of The Rick Case Automotive Group, the nation’s largest retail auto group owned and operated by a woman.
Rita’s parents were the first Honda car dealer in the U.S.1968, where Rita worked throughout grade school. After graduating from the University of California she followed her passion back to her parents’ dealership, where she was determined to prove that a woman could be a successful car dealer. While managing the dealership she met Rick at a Honda car meeting in 1977; they married in 1980 and together built the Rick Case Automotive Group.
Rita has received national recognition for her contribution to the auto industry. A few significant awards: 2024 TIME Dealer of the Year, “National Dealer of the Year” by USA Today; Automotive News “Outstanding Women in the Auto Industry”.
She has been recognized for her business leadership: Horatio Alger Award. Ernst and Young “Entrepreneur of the Year”, Nova Southeastern University “H. Wayne Huizenga Entrepreneur Hall of Fame”.
Rita’s philanthropic focus is supporting educational programs for youth facing adversity and improving health and safety in the communities. To date, they have raised over 125 million dollars for South Florida organizations.
Wini Amaturo
Victor Benitez
Rev. John T. Butler, S.J. ‘85
Marc Cannon
Bishop Enrique E. Delgado, ‘15
Bob Dickinson
Donald E. Dresback BA ‘69
Michael T. Fay
Bernie Fernandez, M.D.
Paul A. Garcia, CPA.
Richard Garcia
Matthew Whelan, Ed.D.
Michelle Johnson Garcia, Ed.D.
Tarlika Nunez-Navarro, J.D.
Steven Birmingham
Diego Britto
Rev. Rafael Capó, Ph.D.
Carlos de Yarza
Eric Godin, Ph.D.
Craig Henderson
John Jackson
John Michalenko, M.Ed.
Michael W. Mominey ‘94
Elmie Myrtil, MSMHR
Joseph P. Primiano, JD
William E. Rychel
Christopher Tarrant
Dionne N. Veitch
Linda L. Wagner
Jameka A. Windham, Ph.D.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Most Rev. Thomas G. Wenski, Archbishop of Miami
David A. Armstrong J.D., President
John J. Dooner Jr., ’70 Chair
Jorge Rico, ’86 Vice Chair
Maureen Shea, Secretary
Gary Goldbloom, Esq.
William A. Kent
Jorge Luis Lopez, Esq.
Victor H. Mendelson
Dominick F. Miniaci, Esq.
Mario Murgado
Marcos A. Perez
Lenore P. Rodicio, Ph.D.
Frances Aldrich Sevilla-Sacasa
Mario Trueba ‘80
Herbert Yardley
PRESIDENT’S CABINET
Executive Vice President
Provost & Chief Academic Officer
Dean and Professor of Law
Chief Information Officer
VP for Administration & Chief Financial Officer
VP for Mission and Ministry
VP for Marketing & Communications
VP for Strategic Planning and Effectiveness
VP for Innovation and Governmental Relations, Chief of Staff
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs
Senior Advisor to the President
Vice President for Philanthropy (Interim)
Director of Human Resources
Associate Vice President and Internal Counsel
Associate Vice President for Athletics & Head
Football
Coach
Executive Director of Physical Plant
VP for Enrollment
Treasurer
VP for Student Success
PRESIDENT’S BOARD OF ADVISORS
Mr. Ciro Buttacavoli ’81, Chair
Ms. Hortensia Ullivarri ’95 & 00, Vice Chair
Mr. Sergio Alvarez-Mena, Esq.
Ms. Loretta Anaya
Mr. Herbert Cousins
Mr. George Cuesta
Ms. Barbara Del Castillo
Mrs. Carol Ellis-Cutler ’84
Mr. Eric T. Davidson ’95
Ms. Theresa Davis ’99
Mr. Donald Dresback, ’69
Mr. Richard Garcia
Ms. Teresita Garcia
Ms. Meg Garza
Mr. Jorge Gutierrez, Esq.
Mr. Ray Guzman ’96
Ms. Maria Hernandez
Mr. Daniel Katz ’93
Mr. Michael Kelly ’94
Ms. Danielle Lopata ’90
Mr. Tony M. Lopez
Ms. Ann Machado
Mr. Paul Mainieri ’82
Mr. Jorge Martinez ’80
Mr. James McDonald
Mr. Todd Mestepey
Mr. Julio Millan ’87
Mr. Mitchell Murphy
Mr. Rafael Olloqui ’91
Mr. Ralph Patino
Mr. Paul Philip
Mr. Obdulio Piedra ’84
Mr. Julio Ramirez
Mr. Julian Rodriguez ‘73
Mr. David Ross
Mr. Rodger Shay Jr.
Mrs. Maureen Shea
Mr. Jose Villlafranca ‘04
GUS MACHADO COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADVISORY BOARD
Mr. Julio Barrionuevo, Chair
Ms. Amparo Alvarez
Mr. Fred Bean
Mr. Ciro Buttacavoli ’81
Mr. Juan Jose Calvo
Ms. Deanna Christensen ‘89
Mr. George Cuesta
Mr. Jeff Craney ’87
Mr. Charles Dargan
Mr. Enrique Del Riego
Mrs. Carol Ellis-Cutler ’84
Ms. Ana Eberhard ’88
Mr. Alan Fertel, Esq.
Mr. Jesus Gonzalez
Ms. Hortensia Ullivarri ’95 & 00
Ms. Tery Howard
Mr. Terence Huan
Mr. Andreas A. Ioannou
Mr. N. Abraham Issa
Mr. Raimundo Lopez-Lima Levy ‘06
Mr. Gregory Lampert
Ms. Daniella Lopata ‘90
Mrs. Liliam Lopez ‘88
Ms. Ann Machado
Mr. Jorge Martinez ’80
Ms. Margee Dinaris Martinez ’06
Ms. S. Carolina Mata
Mr. Andy Mayobre
Mr. Manuel Mencia ‘73
Ms. Maria Prado ‘10
Mr. Jorge L. Rico ‘86
Ms. Maida D. Serer ‘20
Mr. John Steinbauer
Mr. Merritt Stierheim
Mr. Patrick Tardieu
Mr. T J Villamil
COLLEGE OF NURSING
Dr. Nashat Abualhaija, Dean College of Nursing, Chair
Dr. Sherron Franks-Meeks
Dr. Amanda Murphy
Uriel Estrada
Dr. Amina Dubuisson
Dr. Jennifer Holiman
Dr. Tina Roberts
Dr. Ruben Coll
Dr. Aimee Gonzalez
Kerry Major
Dr. Amanda Murphy
Dr. Dorothy Jackson
Danielle Garcia
Poala Rivas
Dr. Sandra Severe
Marie Paule Woodson
Dr. Ellen Fineout-Overholt
SCHOOL OF LAW ADVISORY BOARD
Carlos Santisteban, Jr. ’09, Chair
David A. Armstrong, J.D., President St. Thomas University
Tarlika T. Nunez-Navarro, Dean, ‘10 College of Law
Adrian Acosta, ‘16
Chad Altieri, ’06
Elaine A. Carbuccia ’16
Patrick L. Cordero, ’88
Darrell L. Crapps
Frances Guasch De La Guardia ’88
Jude Faccidomo, ’04
Martha D. Fornaris
Phillip M. Gerson
Joshua Hertz, ’01
John Leon, ’01
Yara Lorenzo Klukas,’09
Rev. Dr. Patrick H. O’Neill
Jonathan Osborne
Isis Pacheco Valasco, ’07
Ricky K. Patel. ’09
Michael P. Rudd, Esq., ’88
Herman Russomanno
Kristopher Salado, ‘16
Eric T. Schwartzreich, ‘96
Schyler Smith, ‘09
Albert Sotero, ‘24
Monica Vigues-Pitan
DURING THE CEREMONY
To ensure respect for the solemnity of this ceremony for our graduates, we ask all those who have cellular phones, or other electronic devices to please turn them off until the end of this ceremony.
AWARDING OF DEGREES
We ask members of the audience to respect others while taking photographs during the ceremony and to hold your applause until all the candidates for a given school and degree level have received their degrees.
DURANTE LA CEREMONIA
Para garantizar respeto ante la solemnidad de la ceremonia de graduación, pedimos a todos los que tengan celulares, localizadores (beepers) y otros aparatos electrónicos, que por favor los apaguen hasta que termine la ceremonia.
ENTREGA DE DIPLOMAS
Les pedimos que sean respetuosos con las otras familias que también deseen tomar fotografías y les rogamos que contengan sus aplausos hasta que todos los graduados hayan recibido sus diplomas.
BISCAYNE
BACHELOR OF ARTS in COMMUNICATION & MEDIA STUDIES
Juan Pablo Arriola II
Cum Laude
Sergio Jose Garcia
Summa Cum Laude
Sophie Louise Osman
Praemia Honors
Greta Woods
Summa Cum Laude
BACHELOR OF ARTS in CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Kayla M. Carter
Trevor Charles Cram *
Alexander Anthony Deane *
Summa Cum Laude
Janika Joseph
Derek J. Sardinas
Magna Cum Laude
Saneilia S. Whyte
BACHELOR OF ARTS in ELEMENTARY EDUCATION
Joshua J. Contreras
Victoria Gomez *
BACHELOR OF ARTS in ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Lindgy Daniel *
Cum Laude
Annette S. Diaz
Summa Cum Laude
Rosemarie Dilella
Kaydian Freeman Lambert
Magna Cum Laude
La’kia Firsher *
Ms. Jacqueline Fonseca
Valerie Shanora Forrest
Cum Laude
John Gonzalez
Magna Cum Laude
Karen Keesler *
Summa Cum Laude
Jada Wheeler
BACHELORS DEGREE RECIPIENTS
BACHELOR OF ARTS in POLITICAL SCIENCE
Gabriela Santana
BACHELOR OF ARTS in PSYCHOLOGY
Tynasha Logan *
Isabella Andrea Rivera *
Elgar William
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES & TECHNOLOGY
BACHELOR OF ARTS in NATURAL SCIENCE
Kailey Ashiya Miller *
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE in BIOLOGY
Kenya Delacaridad Arozarena *
Richard Bernard Greene
Nichollas A. Jeffries
Magna Cum Laude
Stephanie Pizarro
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE in COMPUTER SCIENCE
Alejandro J. Duenas
Henrik Rosmer Hauge
Ja’lon Hudgins *
Sebastian Leandro Sabella
Magna Cum Laude
Liam Spencer Truett
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE in HEALTH SCIENCE
Bryanna Alzate
Claudia Ing Ashford
Magna Cum Laude
Nelson Perez
Praemia Honors
Jude Razafikely
COLLEGE OF NURSING
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE in NURSING
Dayana Agenor
Praemia Honors
Madjinie Alcia
Carline Alcindor
Praemia Honors
Jacqueline Lorine Allen - Randall *
Cum Laude
Noslen Alonso *
Cum Laude
Daniela Barcarcel
Praemia Honors
Youdeline Cetoute Bien Aime
Philippe Bouillon
Praemia Honors
Jana M. Caceres
Rocio Cabrera Perez *
Praemia Honors
Micaja Cadet *
Praemia Honors
Hervelie Calixte *
Praemia Honors
Mayra Margoth Cardoza *
Praemia Honors
Ashley Casanas * Praemia Honors
Cristian R. Cobo
Natassia Delva
Ailec Diaz * Praemia Honors
Liz Diaz * Praemia Honors
Isandra Diaz Blanco
Praemia Honors
Stephany Duran
Samantha Dyon * Praemia Honors
Jessica Espinoza Praemia Honors
Reita Facey *
Jennifer Felusme * Praemia Honors
Brandy Fields
Magna Cum Laude
Johana Formigo
Praemia Honors
Loudjina Degraff Francois
Denise Francois Medor
Praemia Honors
Veronica Garcia *
Praemia Honors
Paulo R Garcia Da Silva *
Magna Cum Laude
Guerda Germain
Praemia Honors
Luis Gomez
Praemia Honors
Raquel Gonzalez
Magna Cum Laude
Josiah Adriel Gonzalez
Praemia Honors
Jessica Georgina Gonzalez
Praemia Honors
Diana Guerra *
Praemia Honors
Ariane C Hernandez * Praemia Honors
Yanet Hernandez Hernandez
Praemia Honors
Yamirka Hernandez Quintana
Praemia Honors
Sydney Becca Hnatuk
Brittany Hoquee
Tynysha Houston
Praemia Honors
Victoria Eugenia Izquierdo *
Praemia Honors
Marcus Laguerre
Nguyen Kim Trang Le
Barbara Angelise Lescano-Dawson
Praemia Honors
Cinthia Lopez
Praemia Honors
Kirania Lopez Vandama
Praemia Honors
Marie Lubin *
Adriana Machado *
Praemia Honors
Verleine Magiste
Praemia Honors
Indira Marquez Machin *
Praemia Honors
Carlos Enrique Martinez
Damaris Renire Martinez
Praemia Honors
Glenda Liamnet Medrano
Lisandra Estefani Merino
Praemia Honors
Kayan Latoya Mills
Cum Laude
Astrid Moise *
Vanessa Morgan
Elizabeth Maria Munoz
Praemia Honors
Victoria Odelus *
Ojeda Napoles
Praemia Honors
Gina Olivares *
Praemia Honors
BACHELORS DEGREE RECIPIENTS
Desiree Paez
Praemia Honors
Roxana Palomino la O
Praemia Honors
Leslie Perdomo *
Katrina Marie Perez *
Praemia Honors
Vanessa Pierre
Praemia Honors
Yesenia Pouerie *
Praemia Honors
Sharlene Louizinette Quezada *
Lesiane Elaine Reid
Raday Rosabal Morales *
Summa Cum Laude
Rebecca Romage
Elizabeth Ruano
Praemia Honors
Axsana Saint-Juste *
Roberte Saintil *
Praemia Honors
Cindy Sanchez *
Cum Laude
Christine Carolyn Smith
Praemia Honors
Kenscar St Louis *
Praemia Honors
Dahlia Steadman
Lisa M. Valdes
Praemia Honors
Cindy Kimberly Valdivia
Fernando Verdini *
Magna Cum Laude
Nephtalie Vil *
Cum Laude
GUS MACHADO COLLEGE OF BUSINESS
BACHELOR OF ARTS in BUSINESS
Daytan Biegel
Cum Laude
Kelcie Jackson
David Alejandro Perez *
Magna Cum Laude
BACHELOR OF ARTS in FASHION MERCHANDISING
Jaylah Ambroise *
Anastasia A Givens *
Alexia Lopez Bracamonte
Cum Laude
Alyssa Guadalupe Luna *
Maria M. Luis Palacios
Sara Rossetti
Magna Cum Laude
Catarina Tourinho
Lisa M. Trigueiro
BACHELOR OF ARTS in SPORTS ADMINISTRATION
Jacoby D. Cunningham Jr.
Rontavious Ivon Farmer
Michael Figueroa
Cum Laude
Jaden Fox-Harrington
David Hayes
Maurice Konig
Jehron McGee
Tom Da Silveira Mehedff *
Jewell Elizabeth Milliman *
Lucas Rocco Rodriguez *
Andres M. Ulloa Sr.
Juan Valencia
Jack Robert Veitch
Tashumba Christina Washington
Kendall Wilson *
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION in ACCOUNTING
Lauren Ella Fullerton *
Magna Cum Laude
Bryant Leonard Tallie *
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION in FINANCE
Sebastian Antonio Burelo
Diego Alejandro Chavez *
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION in INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS
Juliana Castellan *
Cum Laude
Maria Victoria Lugo Morin
Maria Camila Mendez *
Lucas Olivos
Juan Ignacio Ordonez Sr.
Cum Laude
Luca Vogel
Summa Cum Laude
BACHELORS/MASTERS DEGREE RECIPIENTS
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION in MANAGEMENT
Sana Monet Dennis *
Julia Mizutani Fernandez
Magna Cum Laude
Dejon Hadley
Cum Laude
Manuel Alejandro Ramos *
Alicia Andts Rodriguez
Cum Laude
Laura Daniela Sanchez Barbosa
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION in SPORTS ADMINISTRATION
Zachary Alvarez
Cum Laude
Yamille Chauca *
Cadonald Gelin *
Jonah D Hill *
Yoiris Lopez * Latchman Prakash Mulchand
Mariano Sebastian Olivos
Gabriel Pavao de Almeida Vianna
Praemia Honors
Francisco Javier Rivera
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE in CULINARY ART TOURISM & HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT
Dr. Larhone Dalcon-Junior Gayle Honors Distinction
Dr. Pamela Dianne Hughes Honors Distinction
Dr. Chrissie Lunsford *
Dr. Patrick McMillan * Honors Distinction
Dr. Kerven Nelson
Dr. Amy E. Parker Honors Distinction
Dr. Chandra Phillips *
Dr. Latasha Rawles
Dr. Michael Stephens * Honors Distinction
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
Dr. Karla A. Adrien *
Dr. Emmanuel Kyere Antwi * Honors Distinction
Dr. Reynald Bleus * Honors Distinction
Dr. Cristal Aurore Cote Honors Distinction
Dr. Corrol Lyn Fagan Honors Distinction
Dr. Taylor Dean Fernholz
Dr. Alicia Josephine Gant
Dr. Gustave Geffrard
Dr. Catalina Lugo Angeles * Honors Distinction
Dr. Juliette Myrthil Honors Distinction
Dr. Martina Osaghae
Dr. Osasumwen Osaghae
Dr. Sorel A. Payoutte *
Dr. Margie Patryce Permenter
Honors Distinction
GUS MACHADO COLLEGE OF BUSINESS
DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Dr. Philomena Compton * Honors Distinction
Dr. Evelio Rodriguez
Honors Distinction
UNIVERSITY HONOR SOCIETIES
Kappa Gamma Pi
Kappa Gamma Pi was founded June 30, 1926, in Louisville, KY, by the Conference of Catholic Colleges for Women of the National Catholic Educational Association. Since then Kappa Gamma Pi has grown in size and scope. Originally intended for lay women graduates of Catholic colleges, the society extended membership in 1967 to members of religious orders and to those of various faith commitments, and in 1981, to eligible male graduates as well.
Kappa Gamma Pi, the National Catholic College Graduate Honor Society, exemplifies excellence in leadership, scholarship, faith, and service. The diverse membership serves as a network of motivated people who support each other and the wider community in the search for justice, compassion, and wisdom. Candidates must have a 3.8 G.P.A. or above and have demonstrated leadership in university, church and community activity.
Honors Program
The honors program at St. Thomas University is open to all students with a GPA of 3.2 or higher. The purpose of the program is to create a community of scholars. The Honors program sponsors weekly lectures by distinguished faculty during the academic year and also provides scholarship money for the highest achieving honors students as determined by grade point average.
National Society of Leadership & Success
The Society is an organization that helps students discover and achieve their goals. The Society offers life-changing lectures from the nation’s leading presenters and a community where like-minded success oriented individuals come together and help one another succeed. The Society also serves as a powerful force of good in the greater community by encouraging and organizing action to better the world. We build leaders who make a better world.
Sigma Beta Delta
Sigma Beta Delta is an international honor society for business, management, and administration. Students that are half way through a business degree program and rank in at least the top twenty percent of their class are eligible for membership. Sigma Beta Delta members join a prestigious group of academic and business leaders dedicated to the continual pursuit of meaningful aspirations. Sigma Beta Delta membership conveys academic excellence and a commitment to high principles and superior achievement throughout your lifetime.
GRADUATION WITH HONORS
Bachelor of Arts students earn traditional graduation honors by completing a minimum of 45 semester hours with grade point averages as follows:
Cum Laude – 3.55
Magna Cum Laude – 3.75
Summa Cum Laude – 3.90
Bachelor of Arts students earn traditional graduation honors by completing a minimum of 30-44 semester hours with grade point averages as follows:
Praemia Honors –3.55
Graduate students earn traditional graduation honors by completing a minimum of 18 semester hours with grade point averages as follows:
Honors Distinction – 3.80
The awarding of degrees and honors to the candidates named in this program is contingent upon satisfactory completion of the appropriate requirements by each candidate. The listing of the students’ name in this program in no way implies or insures graduation or the award of honors.
HONORES DE GRADUACION
Los estudiantes que se gradúan con título de un Bachillerato reciben honores de graduación tradicionales completando un mínimo de 45 horas semestrales con los siguientes promedios:
Cum Laude – De 3.55
Magna Cum Laude – De 3.75
Summa Cum Laude – De 3.90
Los estudiantes que se gradúan con título de Bachillerato reciben honores de graduación tradicionales completando un mínimo de 30-44 horas semestrales con los siguientes promedios:
Praemia Honors –3.55
Los estudiantes que se gradúan con título de Maestria reciben honores de graduación tradicionales completando un mínimo de 18 horas semestrales con los siguientes promedios:
Honors Distinction – 3.80
La concesión de los diplomas y honores a los candidatos en este programa depende del cumplimiento satisfactorio de los requisitos necesarios de cada candidato. El hecho de que aparezcan los nombres en este programa de ninguna manera implica o asegura la graduación o concesión de honores.
Alumni ALUMNI
CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATES!
You did it! After years of hard work and dedication, you have earned your St. Thomas University degree. On behalf of the STU Alumni Association and the nearly 30,000 Bobcat Alumni around the world, we applaud you for reaching this important milestone.
As you begin the next phase of your life, we welcome you into the STU Alumni family worldwide. Being a STU graduate comes with many privileges and benefits that you will find valuable and helpful if you take advantage of them! Being an STU graduate also carries the responsibility to always represent your alma mater well, to show the world that STU Alumni can do anything, and to stay connected to us throughout your life.
Your career as an STU student is short, but you will carry the title of STU Alumnus for the rest of your life! There are lots of reasons to stay connected to your alma mater and your fellow alumni by participating in the STU Alumni Association. You’re automatically a member, and if we have good contact information for you, you’ll be able to take advantage of ALL your Alumni perks, such as:
• Career Services: Access to online and in-person career advising, job fair expos, and job search help.
• STU Events: Invitations to attend all events, including alumni receptions, Homecoming, galas, games, lectures, networking functions, and other campus activities and major events.
• Special Savings and Discounts: Why pay more? Save on insurance, travel, hotel, sporting events, theme parks, concerts, and more.
• On-Campus Resources: Full privileges at the STU Library, free admission to the Archbishop John C. Favalora Archive and Museum, and athletic events.
Use Instagram and LinkedIn to connect with STU’s networks and remain involved and connected with the University as well as your fellow Bobcat Alumni! We look forward to your involvement and participation in our local and regional events, our professional development activities, and leadership opportunities. As ambassadors of STU, you can help maintain and build upon our proud legacy of preparing ethical leaders for the global community.
Visit our website (stu.edu/alumni) to learn more various Alumni Association membership benefits; subscribe to the Bobcat Brief monthly e-newsletter, and keep us posted of your personal and professional achievements by submitting “Class Notes” online so we can proudly share your successes and updates.
Once a Bobcat, always a Bobcat!
God Bless and Go Bobcats,
David A. Armstrong, J.D. President
NATIONAL ANTHEM
O say can you see, by the dawn’s early light, What so proudly we hail’d at the twilight’s last gleaming, Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight O’er the ramparts we watch’d were so gallantly streaming and the rocket’s red glare, the bomb bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there, O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.
PLEDGE
With a solemn sense of my responsibility, I pledge myself to hold my degree as a sacred trust, an emblem of my obligation to serve, to hold it with untarnished honor to myself, in generous loyalty to St. Thomas University, and with fidelity to God, my country and my fellows.
ALMA MATER
St. Thomas now we sing our song of gladness, To be a part of your great, honored name. Born in the light of noble St. Augustine, Your teachings stand like beacons on our shores. Keep live in us the memories now we treasure, And bring us to Your eternal home.
