“Commencement is a centuries-old tradition to formally and joyfully acknowledge the close of one chapter in our students’ lives and the beginning of the next. In a few moments, today’s graduates will no longer be our students, but will embark on the next stage of their life’s journey. Your college takes great pride in what you have accomplished so far, and looks forward to what you will achieve in your future.”

President Donald P. Christian

"What makes this place special is its emergent nature. At SUNY New Paltz, every day is a chance to learn something new, try something new, and truly explore the horizons before you. We are a community who support and bring out the best in each other. If there exists a New Paltz ethos, then this is it."

Reuben Slater ’19 (History; Anthropology), Class of 2019 Salutatorian

"When we leave the College today, it will mark the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. I don’t know what challenges life will bring, but I can say with certainty that our experiences here have prepared us well to meet them. My hope is that we never forget the individuality that New Paltz helped build."

Nicholas Piaquadio ’19 (Electrical Engineering; Physics) - Class of 2019 Valedictorian

"Your time is now, and the world is waiting for you!"

Jane Delgado '73 (Psychology) - Saturday Commencement Speaker

"Today at Commencement, my wish for each of you is the gift of resilience. May you live with compassion, with grace, with insight, with integrity and with love, whatever it is you choose to do."

Nina Smiley - Sunday Commencement Speaker