#United States #University of Bridgeport #Commencement 2025 #Derwin James Jr. #Bridgeport, Connecticut

University of Bridgeport Celebrates 115th Commencement

On Saturday, May 3, 2025, the University of Bridgeport gathered its community at the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater to celebrate a landmark occasion: the 115th commencement ceremonies. With the atmosphere charged with excitement, joy, and optimism, the event saw over 1,400 degrees conferred amidst an estimated audience of 9,000 guests. The day was divided into two ceremonies—one for undergraduates in the morning and another for graduates in the afternoon.

The day kicked off with an uplifting processional by UB Steel, the university's vibrant steel drum band, setting a celebratory tone that resonated throughout the amphitheater. The nostalgic atmosphere was further enlivened as faculty, staff, and students united to sing the National Anthem. UB President Danielle Wilken addressed the fresh graduates, reflecting on her shared journey with many in the class of 2025. She noted, "Legacy is not created by a single act, but it is the sum of your actions, your words, and your choices," urging graduates to cultivate their unique legacies in the years to come.

A series of distinguished guests took to the stage, bringing words of wisdom to the graduates. U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal emphasized the colossal potential within the graduate cohort and their vital contributions to society. Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim, an alumnus of UB, shared pride in his city's bond with the graduating class, encouraging them to remain engaged and connected.

One remarkable voice at the commencement was that of Ishmael A. Mensah, a first-generation college student from Ghana majoring in Dental Hygiene. In his compelling address, he shared his journey of overcoming personal struggles, including the loss of both parents. Mensah not only celebrated their resilience but challenged his peers to harness their stories to change the world, stating, "We did the work. We persevered, and we pushed through despite the numerous challenges."

The undergraduate ceremonies were graced by Derwin James Jr., a safety with the Los Angeles Chargers, who delivered the keynote address and received an honorary degree. In his first commencement speech, he recounted his rise from a small town to professional success. Encouraging graduates to believe in their power, he declared, "Your starting point doesn't define your destination. What matters is the journey and the resilience you build along the way."

As the graduate ceremony commenced, President Wilken again addressed the graduates, motivating them to pursue self-improvement and strive for a better world. Mirna Boktor, earning her Doctor of Health Sciences degree, shared her poignant insights on adversity and the culmination of countless small decisions leading to graduation. She challenged her peers to not merely follow existing blueprints but to recreate and rewrite them for future generations.

The keynote address at the graduate ceremony featured influential healthcare executive Robert Patricelli, who received an honorary degree acknowledging his philanthropic efforts. His powerful advice to graduates was clear: engage, take risks, and work relentlessly. He prompted them to embrace their civic responsibilities while extending kindness to those around them.

Finally, the moment everyone awaited arrived—the conferring of degrees. With joy and pride, President Wilken and Provost Im presented the degree candidates, culminating in the joyful tassel ceremony. Amidst cheers and applause, graduates celebrated with the traditional toss of their caps, marking the end of one chapter and the promising beginning of another.

As the University of Bridgeport embarks on its journey with the class of 2025, it continues to empower individuals, fostering leaders ready to contribute positively to society.

For more information about the University of Bridgeport and the commencement ceremonies, please visit their official website: www.bridgeport.edu/commencement.