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CUNY SPH held its ninth commencement on Thursday, June 5, honoring the largest graduating class in the school’s history.
The ceremony took place, as in past years, at the historic Apollo Theater in the school’s neighborhood of Harlem.
Dean Ayman El-Mohandes kicked off the event by commending the dynamic group of graduates for their perseverance amid a precarious time in history, when public health advocates are needed more than ever.
“During the pandemic, I told our graduates they were graduating during a historically difficult time and that the skills they learned were needed to save lives,” he said. “But challenges never end. They come in a myriad of colors and forms. Some—I will say—unprecedented. And for these, I hope we have prepared you well.”
Dr. Laura Magaña, president and CEO of the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH), delivered the keynote address and was presented with an Honorary Doctor of Science in Public Health degree.
“You are stepping into a world that urgently needs your courage, your vision, and your relentless commitment to justice,” Dr. Magaña said. “A world shaken by pandemics, fractured by deep-rooted health inequities, challenged by systemic injustices, threatened by climate change, overwhelmed by misinformation, and torn by social divisions and polarization. And yet here you are, ready, willing, and able. Not because the path is clear, not because it’s easy, but because it matters.”
Dr. Michelle Morse, acting health commissioner and chief medical officer at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, was presented with the Public Health Champion Award.
“I’ve been doing this work for years both here in New York City and around the word in the global south,” she said. “I know that even in the best of circumstances, it’s not easy. But the past five months have been entirely unique. It’s been a very difficult time to be in public health and in public service. That’s made for some long days, but it’s also made this work more important than ever.”
For the first time in the school’s history, the honor of valedictorian was shared by two graduates, sisters Aaishah and Alisha Mahadeo. The pair earned their MPH degrees through the accelerated 4+1 program, allowing them to begin their graduate coursework while still completing their undergraduate studies.
During the doctoral hooding ceremony, Associate Dean Lynn Roberts delivered a special tribute to doctoral student David Lee, who passed unexpectedly in July of 2024. Associate Professor Meredith Manze and Assistant Professor Karmen Williams presented Lee’s brother Alan with a posthumous doctoral degree on his behalf.
Once the master’s graduates each received their diploma, Dean El-Mohandes led the graduates in capturing the moment with a selfie.
“We are today a privileged group that have been supported in their education by the public,” he said. “Before we leave this place, I want you to remember that your loyalty is to the public. I am proud of you and I’m proud of the way that you will serve. Please go and make the change that we all need so much.”
