June 13, 2023
Empire State University Honors Graduates at Fort Drum Graduation Ceremony
(FORT DRUM, NY - June 12, 2023) Empire State University honored four graduates at the Fort Drum Graduation Recognition Ceremony on Friday, June 9.
This year’s student speaker was Empire State University student Xavier Mantock '23, who is completing his final courses for his Associate of Science in educational studies. Xavier spoke about beginning his life in Jamaica, his progression from the Army Reserve to active-duty service, and his excitement to begin his next educational journey with his bachelor’s degree. SUNY Empire graduates Heather Gaebel '21, Hernan Henao '23, and Harold Jimenez '23 were also present and recognized at the ceremony. Mentor Teresa Henning, Ph.D. joined the graduates on stage to deliver remarks.
The Commanding General of Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division, Major General Gregory Anderson, was on stage to shake the hands of graduates, as well as Fort Drum Education Services Officer Mary Anne Vaughn. The 10th Mountain Division Band provided live music for the ceremony.
Empire State University was one of the three colleges with representatives on the Fort Drum military installation, in addition to SUNY Jefferson Community College and University of Maryland Global Campus. Local graduates from those schools as well as any other college or university in the country were invited to participate in this recognition ceremony. It was the first in-person recognition ceremony since the COVID-19 pause.
Empire State University Director of Veteran and Military Education Desiree Drindak said, "The Fort Drum graduation ceremony is one of my favorite events of the year. For many of the active-duty soldiers at Fort Drum, this is the only opportunity to attend commencement and celebrate with their friends and family due to their military commitments. We are honored to be part of the Fort Drum Education Center on-post programming and love to celebrate our students at this yearly event."
SUNY Empire is the largest-serving, four-year, military-affiliated institution in the State University of New York.