Empire State University Concludes International Commencement Ceremonies

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY -- July 24, 2023) This summer, four international commencements were held to honor our Empire State University students studying overseas. These events were significant milestones for SUNY Empire, celebrating the achievements of diverse graduates from different parts of the world. This was also President Lisa Vollendorf’s inaugural participation at SUNY Empire’s international ceremonies. 

 
The first ceremony took place on June 23 at the Žofín Palace in Prague, Czech Republic. Organized by the University of New York in Prague, President Vollendorf conferred undergraduate degrees to 101 international graduates from various countries including the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Russia, Spain, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, India, Germany, and more. Notably, two United States veteran graduates were also recognized during the ceremony. The occasion marked the 25th anniversary of SUNY Empire's partnership with UNYP, a partnership that provides students with invaluable opportunities for global understanding, cultural exchange, knowledge sharing, and career advancements. 
 
Following this, on July 5, SUNY Empire celebrated more of its international graduates in Athens, Greece made possible through the partnership with the New York College Educational Group. The commencement ceremony took place by the backdrop of the Acropolis and the Pillars of Olympian Zeus at the historic National Gymnastics Club. Professor Vollendorf bestowed degrees upon the graduates and honored the New York College partners with a commemorative plaque, acknowledging the longstanding partnership that has been mutually beneficial. The graduating class was primarily comprised of Greek students, with three Albanians and one Chinese graduate also being honored. Notably, Vicky Ampatzoglou, the SUNY Empire coordinator of the Athens Program, not only earned her MBA but also was honored as valedictorian. 
 
On July 6, the next commencement ceremony took place at the National Theater of Opera and Ballet in the heart of Tirana, Albania. SUNY Empire collaborated with the University of New York, Tirana for this event, graduating students from Libya, Italy, and Albania. University of New York Tirana was the first private university in Albania, founded in 2002. During this ceremony, the Gramoz and Ruben Pashko Scholarship was awarded to SUNY Empire student Kris Beka. Established in 2006, this scholarship honors the legacies of the first Rector of the University of New York Tirana Gramoz Pashko and his son, Ruben, a graduate of Empire State University and New York College in Athens. This annual scholarship serves as a perpetual reminder of Pashko's commitment to democracy, educational opportunity, and his contributions to the political and educational life of Albania. It also commemorates the life of Ruben Pashko, who passed on July 23, 2006. 
 
Lastly, on July 14, the Lebanon Residency Program at SUNY Empire held its graduation ceremony in partnership with the American University of Science & Technology (AUST). The event took place at the UNESCO Palace in Beirut, Lebanon, and was presided over by AUST President Hiam Sakr and Provost Nabil Haidar. May Rihani, a Lebanese activist advocating for women's empowerment and global reform of girls' education, delivered the keynote address. This ceremony celebrated the achievements of eight students who persevered and earned their degrees with SUNY Empire despite many obstacles.   
 
Overall, these international commencements have not only served as opportunities to recognize the hard work and accomplishments of our students but have also emphasized the importance of global education, cultural exchange, and the pursuit of academic excellence. As SUNY Empire continues to cultivate partnerships with institutions around the world, it remains dedicated to providing educational opportunities and fostering a community of global citizens. 

To view photos from our international commencements, check out our Flickr album!