Sr. Catherine Howard, O.P., Ph.D., delivered the Commencement Address on May 22, 2016.
The Class of 2016 was given a challenge during Commencement Exercises at the Westchester County Center on May 22, 2016. President of the Dominican Sisters of Blauvelt Sr. Catherine Howard, O.P., Ph.D., delivered the Commencement Address and told the graduates that their Dominican education began – rather than ended that day.
“You see we are lifelong learners, lifelong pursuers of truth, extending compassion, and always committed to service,” Sr. Catherine said. The students were asked to embrace the future with enthusiasm, confidence, imagination, and innovation. “The world needs you. The world needs the Dominican difference. This is your moment. You stand at the beginning of a new era,” she added.
Sr. Catherine Howard was awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humanities during the ceremony for her courageous and inspiring outlook and for her generous use of her talents on behalf of all who have looked to her for wise leadership and judgment. Sr. Catherine is the Founding Director of the Paradise Housing Program, the first short term residential program for HIV infected, addicted, and homeless persons in New York City. She also served as Director of the Ryan White Services, to support HIV affected familics.
There were 560 graduates who earned their degrees – 126 doctorates, 96 masters, 337 bachelors and 1 associate.