The Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony is one of the most anticipated events in the university’s calendar, marking a significant milestone for students, faculty, and the community. Known for its tradition, innovation, and heartfelt celebrations, the ceremony not only commemorates academic achievements but also reflects the resilience, creativity, and ambition of Stevens graduates. Each year, this prestigious event draws thousands of attendees and highlights inspiring speeches, honorary recognitions, and memorable moments that stay with graduates for life.

History and Significance of the Ceremony

Stevens Institute of Technology, located in Hoboken, New Jersey, has a long history of producing industry leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. The Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony serves as the capstone of years of academic dedication, symbolizing the transition from student life to professional careers or advanced studies. Over the decades, the ceremony has evolved to incorporate technological enhancements, diverse cultural elements, and motivational addresses from world-renowned speakers.

Recent Graduation Ceremonies – Highlights

153rd Commencement – Class of 2025

The Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2025 was held on May 21, 2025, at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ.
Key highlights included:

• A week-long celebration with pre-ceremony events such as the Ph.D. hooding, Senior and Graduate Awards, and the Order of the Engineer ceremony.

• Attendance by over 10,000 guests, including graduates, families, faculty, and alumni.

• Dean GJ de Vreede of the School of Business praising graduates for mastering the intersection of business and technology.

• Emotional reflections from graduate community leader Nick Smith, calling the ceremony “one of the most graceful, calm, and authentic moments” of his life.

152nd Commencement – Class of 2024

The Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony for 2024 was one of the largest in the university’s history, conferring over 3,300 degrees.
Highlights included:

• A powerful speech by Marques Brownlee (MKBHD), Class of 2015 alumnus and world-famous tech YouTuber, encouraging graduates to find their true purpose.

• Graduate speaker Michael Kakos emphasized the importance of using one’s skills to create a more just and peaceful world.

• President Nariman Farvardin encouraged graduates to embrace disruption as a tool for innovation and positive change.

• Undergraduate valedictorian Arianna Carmela Gehan referenced the Stevens duck mascot as a symbol of resilience, urging graduates to “find your next flock and ‘duck’ up the world.”

• Graduate speaker Rashi Wase, M.S. in Applied Artificial Intelligence, spoke about perseverance and overcoming challenges.

• Classmate Jared Donnelly was appointed to the Board of Trustees by his peers.

151st Commencement – Class of 2023

The 2023 Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony was held at the Prudential Center in Newark. It featured a university-wide celebration followed by school-specific name readings.
However, the event faced logistical delays and issues, leading to a public apology from the university and a $250 goodwill gesture to each graduate. This demonstrated Stevens’ commitment to addressing student concerns and maintaining trust.

Venues and Event Experience

In recent years, the Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony has been hosted at major venues such as the Prudential Center and the PNC Bank Arts Center. These locations offer:

• Ample seating for thousands of guests.

• Accessibility for families and attendees from diverse backgrounds.

• Professional stage setups with live streaming for those unable to attend in person.

• Enhanced audio-visual presentations celebrating graduates’ achievements.

Inspirational Speeches and Messages

A hallmark of the Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony is its lineup of guest speakers and faculty messages. From tech leaders and industry icons to accomplished alumni, these speakers inspire graduates to embrace innovation, think globally, and act ethically. The speeches often mix humor, personal stories, and visionary advice, leaving lasting impressions on attendees.

Student Awards and Honors

Each Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony recognizes exceptional students for academic excellence, leadership, research achievements, and community service.
Awards include:

• Valedictorian and Salutatorian honors.

• Departmental awards for top-performing students.

• Recognition for outstanding research and innovation.

• Special service awards for community contributions.

Traditions and Symbols

The ceremony incorporates several traditions, including:

• Academic regalia with distinctive hoods representing various disciplines.

• The reading of each graduate’s name on stage.

• The symbolic turning of the tassel.

• Special cultural performances or musical interludes.

Memorable Moments Across the Years

The Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony has seen countless emotional moments—from graduates walking across the stage with family members cheering, to faculty delivering heartfelt messages about their students’ journeys. Some years have included surprise proposals, standing ovations for military veterans, and recognition of students overcoming extraordinary challenges.

Looking Ahead – The Future of Stevens Commencements

As Stevens continues to grow and expand its academic programs, the Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony will likely integrate more advanced technology, hybrid attendance options, and global streaming. These enhancements aim to ensure that every graduate, regardless of location, can celebrate their achievement with the Stevens community.

Conclusion

The Stevens Institute of Technology Graduation Ceremony is more than just a formal academic event—it’s a celebration of dreams realized, challenges overcome, and futures beginning. Through inspiring speeches, proud traditions, and a strong sense of community, the ceremony leaves a lasting legacy for each graduating class. Whether held at the Prudential Center or the PNC Bank Arts Center, the event continues to reflect Stevens’ values of innovation, resilience, and excellence.
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