Rockland Community College’s
63rd Commencement Ceremony
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LIVESTREAM
63RD COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
The 63rd Commencement Ceremony was livestreamed on the Rockland CC Youtube page at 11 am on May 22, 2023. You can watch the recording of the event using the following link. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
MAY 22, 2023
Follow our social media sites to check out other highlights from the ceremony and our graduates. You can also look up the hashtag #RCCgrad2023 on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
May 22, 2023 at 11AM.
The College will hold an in-person celebration for students and their families at Clover Stadium in Pomona, NY on May 22, 2023 at 11AM. The Ceremony will consist of brief comments from dignitaries followed by a procession of all students in attendance. Each school will be represented by their dean and faculty members. Photos will be taken in compliance with health regulations and recommendations.
If you have any questions or concerns about the Ceremony, please email [email protected].
Contact Information
RCC Commencement
[email protected]
Records and Registration
Technology Center
Room 8110
845-574-4328
f: 845-574-4499
24/7 Student Hotline: 844-505-8071
[email protected]
Commencement Information Sessions
The Commencement Ceremony will be held at Clover Stadium, in Pomona, NY, on May 22, 2023. Please join one of our information session to learn about the Ceremony logistics, graduation photos, regalia (cap & gown), and more
May 11, 2023
12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Academic I, Room 1106
Participating in Commencement does not automatically mean that you are eligible for graduation. During the information session, a representative from Records will be available to answer any questions pertaining to degree requirements and applying for graduation.
Virtual Info Session
There will be a virtual information session available via Zoom to cover the same information that will be discussed during the in-person info session. A zoom link will be provided after registering for the event.
May 10, 2023
6 pm – 7pm
Zoom
FIRST IN THE FAMILY
Experience the transformative power of education through the perspective of a first-generation student as they read endearing letters from their loved ones congratulating them on graduating from Rockland Community College.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Dr. Susan Deer
Officer in Charge
Dr. Susan Deer currently serves as Officer in Charge at Rockland Community College. In 2008, she was hired as the Dean of Instruction at Rockland Community College and served in the position until becoming Vice President of Academic Affairs in 2010.
In 2013, Dr. Deer was promoted to Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs & Student Services, and second in charge to the President of the College. Her title was changed once again in 2016 to Provost and Executive Vice President. She was responsible for providing the leadership for all academic services, and has taken a leadership role in the design and implementation of the current Academic Master Plan, the re-design of developmental education, the College’s new model of shared governance, and the “life happens” Connection Center. In addition, Dr. Deer has been the resource go-to person in meeting the Middle States accreditation standards over the past several years. Recently, she has been a leader in the collaborative implementation of a Guided Pathways model, which now offers 4 Schools versus 3 Divisions, and is designed to work more closely with keeping students on the path to completion.
As Chair of the Executive Committee of the Hudson Valley Educational Consortium, Dr. Deer established a regional collaboration amongst community colleges not only in the area of academics but also with local workforce development and industry. She has taken a leadership role in establishing strong partnerships with local two-year colleges, as the Consortium represents the six community colleges in the Mid-Hudson Region of New York State.
Prior to RCC, Dr. Deer was the Men’s and Women’s Athletic Director at Orange County Community College where she was the only woman to serve in the capacity of Commissioner of Region XV of the NJCAA overseeing all of men’s and women’s community college athletic programs in the Hudson Valley, New York City, and Long Island. Dr. Deer also served as a Department Chair, a professional staff and Department Chair union president, and an Associate Vice President for the Health Professions during her tenure at Orange County Community College. Her Ph.D., from Capella University, is in Education, with a specific emphasis in Leadership in Higher Education. In recognition for her leadership, Dr. Deer was awarded the Catalyst Leadership Award by the American Council on Education (ACE) in 2016 as the New York State outstanding woman leader in higher education.
Student SPEAKER
Dominick D'Amico, Class of '23
Dominick D’Amico is a 2021 Warwick Valley High School graduate and a current Cybersecurity student at Rockland Community College. Outside of RCC, he successfully runs a small photography business with a specialization in sports photography. During his free time, Dominick enjoys indulging in video games and making the most of pleasant weather by spending time outdoors. After completing his studies at RCC, Dominick is committed to attending Utica University to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. His ultimate aspiration is to pursue a career in the public sector, utilizing his expertise to safeguard the United States and its citizens.
SUNY Chancellor Award Recipients
Milen Paulose is graduating with her Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts: Humanities and Social Sciences. Milen, who lived in the UAE before moving to Congers, NY, will be transferring to SUNY Purchase to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Literature with a minor in Psychology. From there, she hopes to attend law school. While at RCC, Milen served as the President of the Active Minds Club, member of Phi Theta Kappa, and as a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. Additionally, she volunteered at the Food Pantry & Clothing Closet, worked as a Peer Mentor, and interned with Lumen Learning, a selective opportunity for students.
“Having moved around a lot, it was difficult for me to be truly active in high school. RCC has been the highlight of my education so far. My professors were understanding and have gone out of their way to help me. I met many fantastic people and made many friends who encouraged me to try many new things at RCC.“
Rafhilene Frias-Sanchez is a first-generation student at Rockland Community College. A member of the Sam Draper Honors Program, Rafhilene came to RCC as an early admit student from Ramapo High School, and is graduating with two degrees, Business and Administration, and Humanities and Social Science. She has served as a two-term student trustee, while also serving as president of the RCC chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She is an outstanding student leader, maintaining a cumulative 3.92 GPA during her time at the College. As student trustee, Rafhilene advocated for the interests of her fellow students, and was a particularly strong voice for minority, low-income, and international students.
“I am very grateful to RCC and its community. Rockland Community College is where I truly grew and developed confidence in my abilities. I created a passion for leadership, advocacy, and involving myself within my community. Through this, I realized the value each of us has, and that our work can expand beyond just ourselves. I will forever be grateful to the faculty, administration, trustees, and students I met at RCC and learned so much from, and I will always cherish the memories I made here. Receiving the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence is not just a recognition of my achievements; it also recognizes all the people who helped me and encouraged me to be where I am today. I hope to continue to be a representative for my Hispanic community at my next school, and continue to be someone who can inspire change.”
Patricia Kobes is an accomplished professional who earned an A.S. in Business Administration from SUNY Orange Community College, double majored in Business Administration and Communication Arts at Mount Saint Mary College, and went on to earn an MBA there as well. She began her career at Mount Saint Mary College as a transcript clerk, and worked her way up to Registrar before joining RCC in 2005.
At RCC, Patricia has held various positions, including Middle States Accreditation Liaison Officer and project manager for the Ellucian Banner implementation. Throughout her professional journey, Patricia has demonstrated her commitment to continuous learning and development. She completed the RCC Leadership Academy in 2011 and currently serves as an adjunct instructor for the College in the areas of Business and Film Studies.
Patricia has also made significant contributions in academic research. She collaborated with Dr. Kathy Hopkins and Maureen Kroning on an article entitled "Teaching and Learning in Nursing," which was published in 2021 in the Teaching and Learning in Nursing, Official Journal of the Organization for Associate Degree. With her wealth of knowledge and experience, Patricia continues to make a positive impact in the field of education.
“Higher education helps students develop their independence by enhancing their problem-solving and critical thinking skills, as well as fostering active and engaged citizenship. It also offers opportunities for students to explore new areas of interest that may not have been available to them in high school, achieve financial independence, and gain exposure to diverse cultures and societies.”
Parvin Ansari worked for Rockland Community College for nearly 29 years, primarily in the technology department, where she played an integral role in shaping the Institution's technological landscape. As a retired employee, alumna, and proud parent of RCC graduates, Parvin takes immense pride in her connection to the College. As an adult learner, she embarked on a remarkable path at Rockland Community College (RCC) that would forever shape her life.
After immigrating to the United States, Parvin courageously embraced the opportunity to pursue her dreams at the age of 37. Her first step toward a brighter future began with enrolling in ESL classes at RCC. Despite the challenges she faced as a non-native English speaker, she fearlessly pushed forward, driven by her unwavering commitment to personal growth.
With the invaluable support and guidance of the exceptional and compassionate professors at RCC, Parvin overcame numerous obstacles on her educational journey. Juggling her responsibilities as a mother to three young children, she earned her Associate's degree. Her dedication and resilience served as an inspiration to those around her, showcasing the transformative power of education.
"Completing studies and earning an Associate's degree at Rockland Community College opens doors to endless and life-changing opportunities for students. With affordable tuition and a comprehensive education, RCC paves the way for successful transfers to renowned four-year colleges and universities."
Apply for Graduation
To obtain a degree or certificate from Rockland Community College, students must apply for graduation. Students who believe they have met all degree requirements must complete the online Application for Graduation form in order to notify Records & Registration to review their academic history. Records & Registration will notify the student of their eligibility for graduation or outline the student’s remaining course requirements.
In order to have your name appear in the Commencement Ceremony program, a potential Spring 2023 graduate must complete the Application for Graduation by May 5, 2023. Applications can be completed after the deadline but your name may not appear in the Commencement program.
- Minimum of a 2.00 GPA is required for graduation
- Degree-seeking graduates are required to have 60+ credits and certificate-seeking students must have 25+ credits
Steps to apply for graduation:
- Check that you have completed all of your degree requirements in your Self-Service Student Profile by clicking “View DegreeWorks Audit.” Contact your Faculty or Student Success Advisor if you need assistance.
- Complete the online Application for Graduation.
- Pay the $30 fee that will be charged to your account. This charge will appear 7 – 10 days after completing the Application for Graduation.
After you apply to graduate, Records & Registration will review your application and degree requirements to confirm your eligibility to graduate. Upon review, a response will be sent to your college-issued email. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].
If you have questions or concerns regarding the Commencement Program or Graduation Application, please email:
Commencement Program – [email protected]
Graduation Application – [email protected]
Order Your Cap & Gown
We are no longer accepting regalia orders. If you have purchased regalia, please pick up your order before May 12. The details of how to pickup your cap and gown were sent to your college-issued email after you applied and were approved for graduation. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
Pickup Location: Game Room, First Floor of Student Union, Room 3102
Pickup Hours (May 2 – May 12)
Monday: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm
Tuesday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Wednesday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Thursday: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm
Friday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
GRADUATION PHOTOS
In commemoration of this momentous milestone, we have made arrangements with a professional photography company to take photos of our RCC graduates. You must schedule the time and date to take your photos using the link below. All photos will be taken in the Student Union, Room 3214.
Students must bring their regalia with them as it will not be provided at the event.
Monday, May 8, 10 am – 6 pm
Tuesday, May 9, 9 am – 5 pm
Wednesday, May 10, 9 am – 2 pm
Thursday, May 11, 9 am – 2 pm
Friday, May 12, 12 pm – 5 pm
Graduate Salute
Decorate your cap for graduation. Student Involvement will be hosting cap decoration stations as a part of their Grad Salute. Stop by Student Involvement in the Student Union, Room 3208, to grab your materials before joining the other graduates decorating their caps!
Dates: 5/8 – 5/12 at 10 am
Location: Student Involvement, Room 3208
Student Loan Information Session
If you have borrowed student loans and want to learn more about your repayment responsibility after graduation, please contact Edwin Rivadeneyra at [email protected] to book an appointment. Appointments are available from May 16 through May 31.
During your personal counseling session you will be provided with: contact information for your loan service provider; glossary of key loan terminology; specific dates for when your first payment will be due; a breakdown of the various repayment options available; an opportunity to clarify any questions you may have regarding your student loans
Submit Your Video Shoutout
Congratulations on achieving this momentous milestone. Show your love and appreciation to your fellow graduates and the family, professors, mentors and friends who helped you get to this point by submitting a short, 10-second video shoutout that will be montaged together with videos submitted your fellow graduates.
It’s simple, just answer this one question:
“What advice do you have for your fellow graduates?”
We hope to embrace the diversity of the College and encourage you to speak in whatever language you prefer. Please read the guidelines below before filming your video.
Submit your video by sending an email with the video as an attachment to [email protected] with the subject line, “Commencement Video Shoutout.”
Deadline to submit your video: April 15, 2022
- Length – Make sure your video is no longer than 10 seconds.
- Language – You may speak in whatever language you prefer. We embrace diversity at RCC.
- Pick a Clean Background – If you can, pick a neutral background. Try to avoid personal items in your shot.
- Hold the Camera Steady – If you do not have assistance, attach your camera to a tripod. If you are using your phone, rest it up against a surface.
- Framing – Make sure you are in the center of the picture and get close enough to frame from the mid-chest area up. Make sure to look into the camera and do not move around too much.
- Horizontal – Record yourself with the camera held horizontally. This position will record video in a landscape format, which is ideal.
- Lighting – Make sure there is plenty of light. Avoid standing in front of a window because it may make you appear too dark.
- Audio – Make sure there isn’t any additional noise around you. Remember to speak loudly and clearly.
- Dress Professionally – Wear what you would if you were giving your speech live. Do not wear anything with logos or a busy pattern.
- Practice – Make sure to practice what you are going to say a few times so you will be more confident when the camera is rolling.
- Submit – You can submit your video by sending an email with the video as an attachment to [email protected] with the subject line, “Commencement Video Shoutout.”
BECOME THE STUDENT SPEAKER
Leave your legacy by inspiring and sharing common experiences with your graduating peers. The student who is selected to represent the graduating class will deliver their speech during the Commencement Ceremony.
Applicants must be graduating students with a minimum of a 2.00 GPA and showcase leadership, service and RCC pride!
The deadline to complete the Application for Student Speaker form been extended to Sunday, April 23 at 5pm. If your application is selected, finalists will be interviewed on Thursday, April 27 from 10am – 12pm and Friday, April 28 from 1pm – 4pm.
Thank you for your interest. It is a great honor and privilege to represent your graduating class as the student speaker. For more information, contact Michael Albin, Director of Student Involvement at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
Please continue to check this document as it is updated frequently.
Students who are set to complete all degree requirements for August 2022, December 2022, and Spring 2023 may participate in graduation. Please confirm your eligibility with Records by applying for graduation.
Although we would love to celebrate everyone, only those who took the necessary measures to complete the form and have received confirmation to attend commencement will be allowed to walk. Commencement confirmation is separate from the email that you receive from records after you have applied for graduation. It is important to read and respond by the deadlines so that you are accounted for as we must plan according to those who have confirmed their attendance by the deadline specified on the form.
In commemoration of this momentous milestone, we have made arrangements with a professional photography company to take photos of our RCC graduates. You must schedule the time and date to take your photos using the link below. All photos will be taken in the Student Union, Room 3214.
May 16 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
May 17 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
May 18 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
May 19 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
May 20 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The graduation photo session is an RCC-sponsored event, therefore students will need to show proof of being fully vaccinated or a negative test to take a photo. Students must bring their regalia with them, as it will not be provided at the event.
You will receive a link at a later date that will ask you to confirm if you will be attending commencement at Clover Stadium. There will be additional information that you must provide on the form to secure your spot. The link will only be sent to those who have applied and were approved to participate in commencement by the Office of Records.
Students must apply for graduation, after approval by the Office of Records, your name will be added to the list of graduates for 2023 (please note, processing will take a few days). You will be sent a link with information on how to order your regalia to your RCC email. The deadline for ordering your regalia is May 5, 2023. You will need your Student ID number to place your order. Please note that your ID number is under the Student Profile section in Banner (number beginning with R00). Regalia will not be shipped home. All students must pick up their regalia in person. You will be sent an email once the Regalia arrives with information about where and when you may come pick it up.
The cost of regalia will be $30 (The full cost is $60. Students pay $30 when they arrive to pick up their regalia. SGA covers the remaining $30).
Please note, you will not be able to purchase regalia at the bookstore. Please follow the above instructions if you would like to order regalia.
Students must order regalia by May 5, 2023. All students must have RCC regalia to walk in commencement no exception.
Students must pay a $30 graduation application fee. In addition, when you pick up your regalia, you will be required to pay $30. These fees are separate.
Yes, Student Involvement will be hosting events the week before Commencement. Please continue to check your RCC email for more information. They will also be listed online at sunyrockland.edu/events.
There will not be a rehearsal. Students are encouraged to attend one of the three Grad Info sessions to hear more about what to expect for commencement. The Grad Info dates will be posted at a later date. Two sessions will be offered in April and one in May. You will be able to ask questions during this event.
Graduates are encouraged to wear semi-formal dress for the celebration and all students must have on RCC regalia to participate in commencement, exceptions. Regalia must be purchased prior to commencement.
Commencement is a graduation ceremony to celebrate this memorable moment of your success. We encourage you to attend and celebrate your accomplishments.
Graduates will receive a “Name Card” upon arrival on the day of the ceremony. The “Name Card” is used to read your name as you walk across the stage. Your name is announced from this card, so please spell your name phonetically (So‧phi‧a) to assist the reader with the correct pronunciation. In addition, please ensure that you have a pen with you the day of the event.
Yes, you must apply to graduate, regardless of ceremony participation. For information on how to apply for graduation, visit Click Here for Graduation Application.
No, if students do not choose to take part in any ceremony, but their academic requirements are met, students will receive their diplomas in the mail.
Your diploma will be mailed to the address on file with Records, approximately one month after Commencement–as long as you do not have any outstanding financial obligations, and all graduation requirements have been met.
Questions about graduation eligibility should be sent to Records by email at [email protected].
Questions about the Ceremony should be sent by email to [email protected].
Please plan for two hours.
No, however, please be mindful that your peers will also be celebrating and will have guest as well.
There are no tickets needed for students or guests to attend. Students who have applied for graduation through the office of records will receive the link to RSVP to attend the commencement ceremony at a later date.