Commencement Ceremonies

Buffalo State University will confer degrees on its students during the 153rd Commencement celebration. Ceremonies are held by each academic school and take place on May 17, 2025 in the Sports Arena.

9:00 a.m.

School of the Professions

Bachelor’s, Master’s and Advanced Graduate Certificates Ceremony

1:00 p.m.

School of Arts and Sciences

Bachelor’s, Master’s and Advanced Graduate Certificates Ceremony

5:00 p.m.

School of Education Including Individualized and Multidisciplinary Studies

Bachelor’s, Master’s and Advanced Graduate Certificates Ceremony

Kelly Frothingham

School of Arts and Sciences

"The future is yours to shape, and we have every confidence that you will do so brilliantly. 

The world awaits your talents."

Read the complete message from the dean of the School of Arts and Sciences.

Details of the School of Arts and Sciences ceremony to follow.

Wendy Paterson

School of Education

"With this ceremonial farewell, you are ending your time at this marvelous university and extending your time into classrooms all over the world."

Read the complete message from the dean of the School of Education.

Details of the School of Education ceremony to follow.

Carol Denysshen

School of the Professions

"Your commitment to academic success and perseverance has brought you to the next chapter of your life."

Read the complete message from the dean of the School of the Professions.  

Details of the School of the Professions ceremony to follow.

Amitra Wall headshot

Academic Affairs

"It is my pleasure to congratulate our Individualized Studies and Multidisciplinary Studies graduates. The uniqueness of your degree prepares you for your next journey."

Read the complete message from the interim provost.

Details of the ceremony for Individualized Studies and Multidisciplinary Studies graduates to follow.

Kelly Frothingham

School of Arts and Sciences

"Congratulations to the School of Arts and Sciences Class of 2024! Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment have brought you to this momentous day, and we couldn't be prouder of your accomplishments. 

The skills and insights you've gained during your time here will serve as the foundation for your future endeavors. You step out into the world well-prepared to make a profound impact. 

I urge you to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead with enthusiasm and an open heart. Your education has not only equipped you with the ability to think critically but also to be agents of positive change. Continue to explore, question, and innovate as you pursue your dreams. 

The future is yours to shape, and we have every confidence that you will do so brilliantly. The world awaits your talents." 

Kelly M. Frothingham, Ph.D.
Interim Dean
School of Arts and Sciences
Buffalo State University

Wendy Paterson

School of Education

"Welcome, School of Education graduates to this well-deserved celebration of you. Each year we arrive at Graduation week exhausted, but exhilarated. Undergraduates are now leaving the life of an apprentice and emerging as a novice. Graduates, you have practiced and mastered your craft. With this ceremonial farewell, you are ending your time at this marvelous university and extending your time into classrooms all over the world.

You are the hope of your family, this city, the state of New York, and the world. You are the reason we celebrate, because your accomplishments represent hope and hard work and the importance of human relationships and you have already answered the question, “What can I do?”  with the answer, “I will teach.” You accept the burden and the joy of this, the profession that gives birth to all other professions. Go now with honor and pride and teach."

Wendy A. Paterson, Ph.D.
Professor and Dean
School of Education
Buffalo State University

Carol Denysshen

School of the Professions

"On behalf of Buffalo State University administration, faculty, and staff, it is my pleasure to congratulate each 2024 graduate.  Your commitment to academic success and perseverance has brought you to the next chapter of your life.  We are delighted that you chose the School of The Professions to help navigate your journey.  We have worked diligently to prepare you for success and commitment to making the world a better place.  Please 'pay it forward' as you move through your future years and remember to continue to lay a foundation for continued learning & responsible citizenship, and always be a steward of good change!  You are an important part of the future we want to see.  Remember to give back to the university by supporting programs and scholarships and keep us updated on your careers and life accomplishments! Congratulations, your future is limitless!"

Carol DeNysschen, PhD, MBA, MPH, FAND
Dean
School of the Professions
Buffalo State University 

Amitra Wall headshot

Academic Affairs

"On behalf of Academic Affairs, it is my pleasure to congratulate our Individualized Studies and Multidisciplinary Studies graduates. The uniqueness of your degree prepares you for your next journey.  I urge you to remember why you chose your unique path and the sacrifices that you endured to make this moment happen. 

Parents, spouses, children, and friends, let us enjoy the shared feeling of pride in what your graduate has accomplished and the abundant opportunities ahead.

Graduates, I ask that you not forget the university, former professors, and fellow and future Bengals. I encourage you to keep us updated on the many achievements you will experience in your careers and personal lives. We will always take great pride in your achievements.

Congratulations again to the graduates of our multidisciplinary studies and individualized studies professional and programs. You are forever part of our Buffalo State community!"

Amitra A. Wall, PhD, C.A.S.
Interim Provost
Academic Affairs
Buffalo State University