Recognizing the Class of 2024
Assumption University will celebrate the academic achievements of the Class of 2024 on Sunday, May 12th and Saturday, May 18th.
Schedule of Events:
Baccalaureate Mass – Saturday, May 11th, 2024, 5 P.M.– Plourde Recreation Center
All candidates for graduation, their families and guests are invited to attend the Mass. There is no limit to the number of individuals who may attend. The candidates for graduation process into the Baccalaureate Mass as a class. Please wear your graduation gown, but not your graduation hood or cap, to the Mass. The candidates for graduation assemble in front of Laska no later than 4:30 PM. You will process from Laska into Plourde.
Baccalaureate Reception – Saturday, May 11th, following Mass – Laska Gymnasium
All candidates for graduation and their families are invited to attend the baccalaureate reception after the Mass in the Laska Gymnasium immediately following the Mass.
Commencement – Sunday, May 12, DCU Center, Worcester
- 8:30 a.m. – Doors open to the public (no tickets required) All families and guests should be seated by 9:30am.
- 9:40 a.m. – Academic Procession Begins
- 10 a.m. – Commencement Ceremony Begins
Information on parking and entry to the DCU center can be found here.
Graduate School Commencement Exercises: Saturday May 18, 2024, 10:00AM, Plourde Recreation Center, Assumption University Campus.
This webpage will be updated as additional information is made available. Please see the tabs below, especially the Frequently Asked Questions for more details.
Celebrating the Conclusion of Your Journey at Assumption
Commencement is the culmination of your four years of study and work. The education that you have received will continue to nurture you and impact you throughout your life.
Critical intelligence will allow you to reason carefully, to recognize the complexities and paradoxes of the human condition and to recognize that you should not accept everything you hear or read at face value, that there are different sides to consider in every situation, and that the goal is to arrive at the truth. Thoughtful citizenship will require you to speak and act with wisdom, engaging in your civic responsibilities in a way that will advocate for the vulnerable in our society, keeping at the forefront the dignity of all human persons. Compassionate service will
Class of 2024
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The Froelich School of Nursing Pining Ceremony will be Friday, May 10th at 4:30 PM in Curtis Performance Hall in the Tsotsis Family and Academic Center.
Baccalaureate Mass – Saturday, May 11th, 2024, 5 P.M.– Plourde Recreation Center
All candidates for graduation, their families and guests are invited to attend the Mass. There is no limit to the number of individuals who may attend. The candidates for graduation process into the Baccalaureate Mass as a class. Please wear your graduation gown, but not your graduation hood or cap, to the Mass. The candidates for graduation assemble in front of Laska no later than 4:30 PM. You will process from Laska into Plourde.
Baccalaureate Reception – Saturday, May 11th, following Mass – Laska Gymnasium
All candidates for graduation and their families are invited to attend the baccalaureate reception after the Mass in the Laska Gymnasium immediately following the Mass.
Commencement – Sunday, May 12, DCU Center, Worcester
- 8:30 a.m. – Doors open to the public (no tickets required) All families and guests should be seated by 9:30am.
- 9:40 a.m. – Academic Procession Begins
- 10 a.m. – Commencement Ceremony Begins
Information on parking and entry to the DCU center can be found here.
Graduate School Commencement Exercises: Saturday May 18, 2024, 10:00AM, Plourde Recreation Center, Assumption University Campus.
This webpage will be updated as additional information is made available. Please see the tabs below, especially the Frequently Asked Questions for more details.
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Assumption University is delighted to announce its speakers and honorary degree recipients for both the Undergraduate and Graduate School Commencement Ceremonies.
Aaron Dominguez, Ph.D., will deliver the commencement address at the Undergraduate Commencement ceremony on May 12, 2024, where he will also receive an honorary doctorate.
Carolyn M. Clancy, an alumna from the class of 1982, will deliver the keynote address, and receive an honorary degree, at the University’s Graduate School Commencement on May 18, 2024.
In addition to the two commencement speakers, the University will bestow honorary degrees to Robert DeMott, Ph.D., a noted scholar of the works of author John Steinbeck, and Michael M. Collins, M.D., Chancellor of UMass Chan Medical School.
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Public Entrance: please use doors # 11 & 12.
Disability Entrance: please use door #13.
Student Entrance: please use door #2.
Please also be aware of new protocol for entry into the DCU Center:
- No bags larger than 8” x 10” (except medical bags and baby supply bags).
- No backpacks.
- No outside food/water.
- No signs or banners.
- Full size umbrellas are prohibited.
- Full size camera tripods prohibited.
- Guests wearing large coats / jackets required to open them up for visual inspection.
- No balloons.
- No glass vases with floral arrangements.
- Wrapped gifts will be required to be unwrapped.
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Student Transportation to the DCU Center
Buses are provided for the members of the Class of 2024 from campus to the DCU Center. (Return transportation to campus is provided by families.) Students should arrive promptly at the Plourde Gym no later than 7:45 a.m. Buses will begin loading at 8:10 a.m. and leave no later than 8:40 a.m. A light continental breakfast will be provided before departure. Students arriving to the DCU center from off campus should plan on arriving at the DCU by 8:45 a.m., and enter using door #2.
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Please click below to order.
Undergraduate Cap and Gown Ordering
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A livestream for all ceremonies will be made available on Assumption University’s website and Facebook page.
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Diplomas will be presented at the ceremonies on May 12 and 18 respectively.
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Are tickets required for the Mass or the Commencement Ceremony?
Tickets are not required for either event; attendance at the Baccalaureate Mass is not required for students, but seating is more limited than the Commencement Ceremony.
What time does the Commencement Ceremony begin?
The student procession begins are 10 a.m. sharp and the doors to the DCU center will open at 9 a.m.
How long does the Commencement Ceremony last?
The length of the ceremony is approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours.
Outside Food and guest bags and balloons:
No outside food, flowers or balloons are permitted in the DCU Center per management. Please know that concessions will be open. Guest bags, flowers and balloons are not allowed; please see a list of building policies here.
Is there a reception following the Ceremony?
The University will host formal reception after the Baccalaureate Mass, but not after the Commencement so graduates and their families can spend time together celebrating their son or daughter’s accomplishments.
Is there a Commencement Photographer?
Yes, the University has contracted with Grad Images, Inc., to take close-up photos of each individual graduate as he/she receives his/her diploma. There will be two different photography shots taken of each student during the ceremony; one as they receive their diploma (action shot) and one as they exit the stage with diploma in hand (posed shot).
Commencement Photos, Inc. will contact each student at his/her home address regarding the ordering and purchasing of the photos. Please allow 1-2 weeks for processing before proofs of the May 11th event are available.
If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Grad Images at (800) 261-2576; again please allow 1-2 weeks after the event date for initial processing.
Parents, family, and friends will be allowed to take pictures only from their seats and will not be allowed access to the arena floor during the ceremony to maintain the dignity of the ceremony.
Commencement Video
A live stream will be available on the University website.
Is handicapped seating available at Commencement?
The DCU Center has designated areas for those using wheelchairs as well as other rows designated for those with mobility issues. DCU ushers will to assist those with these needs.
Is there reserved Handicap Parking?
HDCP parking for vehicles with official placards/plates is available directly adjacent to the DCU Center.
Where can I buy refreshments and snacks?
Concession areas will be open at the DCU Center during the Commencement ceremony.
Where can I buy Assumption University gifts and souvenirs?
CORRECTION: The bookstore will NOT be open on Sunday, May 11th and items will not be available DCU Center. However, you may shop for items online at: https://assumption.bncollege.com/Gifts-for-Grads/c/gifts-for-grad.
Flower bouquets
Flowers will be available for sale at the DCU during the ceremony. Please know that all flowers must be purchased at the DCU; they will not permit flowers from outside.
Additional Questions?
Please contact acad.eventsoffice@assumption.edu
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Are tickets required for the Mass or the Commencement Ceremony?
Tickets are not required for either event; attendance at the Baccalaureate Mass is not required for students, but seating is more limited than the Commencement Ceremony.
What time does the Commencement Ceremony begin?
The student procession begins are 10 a.m. sharp and the doors to the Plourde Center will open at 9 a.m.
Graduate Students will receive a detailed email prior to the event with information on arrival time and location, as well as parking.
How long does the Commencement Ceremony last?
The length of the ceremony is approximately 1 ½ to 2 hours
Is there a reception following the Ceremony?
A reception for the Graduate School will take place immediately following the ceremony, the reception will take place in the Ballroom of the Tsotsis Family Academic Center.
Will there be Sign Language interpreter at Commencement?
Yes, if you or a family member will require these services, please contact acad.eventsoffice@assumption.edu
Is there a Commencement Photographer?
Yes, the University has contracted with Grad Images, Inc., to take close-up photos of each individual graduate as he/she receives his/her diploma. There will be two different photography shots taken of each student during the ceremony; one as they receive their diploma (action shot) and one as they exit the stage with diploma in hand (posed shot).
Commencement Photos, Inc. will contact each student at his/her home address regarding the ordering and purchasing of the photos. Please allow 1-2 weeks for processing before proofs of the May 18th event are available.
If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Grad Images at (800) 261-2576; again please allow 1-2 weeks after the event date for initial processing.
Parents, family, and friends will be allowed to take pictures only from their seats and will not be allowed access to the arena floor during the ceremony to maintain the dignity of the ceremony.
Commencement Video
A live stream will be available on the University website.
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Photos
We invite you to sit back and enjoy the ceremony and this milestone moment without having to worry about photos. A professional photographer will contact families directly with information on how to purchase photos from Commencement. Please visit Grad Images for more information.
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Campus Move-out
Seniors who have remained on campus for Senior Week are asked to vacate campus housing by 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 12. This provides ample time for graduates and their families to take photos and reminisce on campus following the ceremony. The University strongly encourages – and welcomes – graduates and their families to return to campus to take photos which has become an annual tradition. Should you have any questions relative to the move-out process, please contact the Office of Residential Life at 508-767-7505.
The Froelich School of Nursing Pining Ceremony will be Friday, May 10th at 4:30 PM in Curtis Performance Hall in the Tsotsis Family and Academic Center.
Baccalaureate Mass – Saturday, May 11th, 2024, 5 P.M.– Plourde Recreation Center
All candidates for graduation, their families and guests are invited to attend the Mass. There is no limit to the number of individuals who may attend. The candidates for graduation process into the Baccalaureate Mass as a class. Please wear your graduation gown, but not your graduation hood or cap, to the Mass. The candidates for graduation assemble in front of Laska no later than 4:30 PM. You will process from Laska into Plourde.
Baccalaureate Reception – Saturday, May 11th, following Mass – Laska Gymnasium
All candidates for graduation and their families are invited to attend the baccalaureate reception after the Mass in the Laska Gymnasium immediately following the Mass.
Commencement – Sunday, May 12, DCU Center, Worcester
- 8:30 a.m. – Doors open to the public (no tickets required) All families and guests should be seated by 9:30am.
- 9:40 a.m. – Academic Procession Begins
- 10 a.m. – Commencement Ceremony Begins
Information on parking and entry to the DCU center can be found here.
Graduate School Commencement Exercises: Saturday May 18, 2024, 10:00AM, Plourde Recreation Center, Assumption University Campus.
This webpage will be updated as additional information is made available. Please see the tabs below, especially the Frequently Asked Questions for more details.
Assumption University is delighted to announce its speakers and honorary degree recipients for both the Undergraduate and Graduate School Commencement Ceremonies.
Aaron Dominguez, Ph.D., will deliver the commencement address at the Undergraduate Commencement ceremony on May 12, 2024, where he will also receive an honorary doctorate.
Carolyn M. Clancy, an alumna from the class of 1982, will deliver the keynote address, and receive an honorary degree, at the University’s Graduate School Commencement on May 18, 2024.
In addition to the two commencement speakers, the University will bestow honorary degrees to Robert DeMott, Ph.D., a noted scholar of the works of author John Steinbeck, and Michael M. Collins, M.D., Chancellor of UMass Chan Medical School.
Public Entrance: please use doors # 11 & 12.
Disability Entrance: please use door #13.
Student Entrance: please use door #2.
Please also be aware of new protocol for entry into the DCU Center:
- No bags larger than 8” x 10” (except medical bags and baby supply bags).
- No backpacks.
- No outside food/water.
- No signs or banners.
- Full size umbrellas are prohibited.
- Full size camera tripods prohibited.
- Guests wearing large coats / jackets required to open them up for visual inspection.
- No balloons.
- No glass vases with floral arrangements.
- Wrapped gifts will be required to be unwrapped.
Student Transportation to the DCU Center
Buses are provided for the members of the Class of 2024 from campus to the DCU Center. (Return transportation to campus is provided by families.) Students should arrive promptly at the Plourde Gym no later than 7:45 a.m. Buses will begin loading at 8:10 a.m. and leave no later than 8:40 a.m. A light continental breakfast will be provided before departure. Students arriving to the DCU center from off campus should plan on arriving at the DCU by 8:45 a.m., and enter using door #2.
Please click below to order.
Undergraduate Cap and Gown Ordering
A livestream for all ceremonies will be made available on Assumption University’s website and Facebook page.
Diplomas will be presented at the ceremonies on May 12 and 18 respectively.
Are tickets required for the Mass or the Commencement Ceremony?
Tickets are not required for either event; attendance at the Baccalaureate Mass is not required for students, but seating is more limited than the Commencement Ceremony.
What time does the Commencement Ceremony begin?
The student procession begins are 10 a.m. sharp and the doors to the DCU center will open at 9 a.m.
How long does the Commencement Ceremony last?
The length of the ceremony is approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours.
Outside Food and guest bags and balloons:
No outside food, flowers or balloons are permitted in the DCU Center per management. Please know that concessions will be open. Guest bags, flowers and balloons are not allowed; please see a list of building policies here.
Is there a reception following the Ceremony?
The University will host formal reception after the Baccalaureate Mass, but not after the Commencement so graduates and their families can spend time together celebrating their son or daughter’s accomplishments.
Is there a Commencement Photographer?
Yes, the University has contracted with Grad Images, Inc., to take close-up photos of each individual graduate as he/she receives his/her diploma. There will be two different photography shots taken of each student during the ceremony; one as they receive their diploma (action shot) and one as they exit the stage with diploma in hand (posed shot).
Commencement Photos, Inc. will contact each student at his/her home address regarding the ordering and purchasing of the photos. Please allow 1-2 weeks for processing before proofs of the May 11th event are available.
If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Grad Images at (800) 261-2576; again please allow 1-2 weeks after the event date for initial processing.
Parents, family, and friends will be allowed to take pictures only from their seats and will not be allowed access to the arena floor during the ceremony to maintain the dignity of the ceremony.
Commencement Video
A live stream will be available on the University website.
Is handicapped seating available at Commencement?
The DCU Center has designated areas for those using wheelchairs as well as other rows designated for those with mobility issues. DCU ushers will to assist those with these needs.
Is there reserved Handicap Parking?
HDCP parking for vehicles with official placards/plates is available directly adjacent to the DCU Center.
Where can I buy refreshments and snacks?
Concession areas will be open at the DCU Center during the Commencement ceremony.
Where can I buy Assumption University gifts and souvenirs?
CORRECTION: The bookstore will NOT be open on Sunday, May 11th and items will not be available DCU Center. However, you may shop for items online at: https://assumption.bncollege.com/Gifts-for-Grads/c/gifts-for-grad.
Flower bouquets
Flowers will be available for sale at the DCU during the ceremony. Please know that all flowers must be purchased at the DCU; they will not permit flowers from outside.
Additional Questions?
Please contact acad.eventsoffice@assumption.edu
Are tickets required for the Mass or the Commencement Ceremony?
Tickets are not required for either event; attendance at the Baccalaureate Mass is not required for students, but seating is more limited than the Commencement Ceremony.
What time does the Commencement Ceremony begin?
The student procession begins are 10 a.m. sharp and the doors to the Plourde Center will open at 9 a.m.
Graduate Students will receive a detailed email prior to the event with information on arrival time and location, as well as parking.
How long does the Commencement Ceremony last?
The length of the ceremony is approximately 1 ½ to 2 hours
Is there a reception following the Ceremony?
A reception for the Graduate School will take place immediately following the ceremony, the reception will take place in the Ballroom of the Tsotsis Family Academic Center.
Will there be Sign Language interpreter at Commencement?
Yes, if you or a family member will require these services, please contact acad.eventsoffice@assumption.edu
Is there a Commencement Photographer?
Yes, the University has contracted with Grad Images, Inc., to take close-up photos of each individual graduate as he/she receives his/her diploma. There will be two different photography shots taken of each student during the ceremony; one as they receive their diploma (action shot) and one as they exit the stage with diploma in hand (posed shot).
Commencement Photos, Inc. will contact each student at his/her home address regarding the ordering and purchasing of the photos. Please allow 1-2 weeks for processing before proofs of the May 18th event are available.
If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Grad Images at (800) 261-2576; again please allow 1-2 weeks after the event date for initial processing.
Parents, family, and friends will be allowed to take pictures only from their seats and will not be allowed access to the arena floor during the ceremony to maintain the dignity of the ceremony.
Commencement Video
A live stream will be available on the University website.
Photos
We invite you to sit back and enjoy the ceremony and this milestone moment without having to worry about photos. A professional photographer will contact families directly with information on how to purchase photos from Commencement. Please visit Grad Images for more information.
Campus Move-out
Seniors who have remained on campus for Senior Week are asked to vacate campus housing by 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 12. This provides ample time for graduates and their families to take photos and reminisce on campus following the ceremony. The University strongly encourages – and welcomes – graduates and their families to return to campus to take photos which has become an annual tradition. Should you have any questions relative to the move-out process, please contact the Office of Residential Life at 508-767-7505.
Photos: Undergraduate Commencement 2023
Photos: Graduate Commencement 2023
Prior Assumption Commencements
“What would you have advocated? What would you have done?”
Pulitzer Prize-winning and nationally syndicated Washington Post columnist George F. Will, Ph.D., delivered what he called the “last Assumption lecture for which you will be a captive audience” to the Class of 2021 graduates on Sunday, May 9. Will urged the graduates to live in the present while also imagining the past.
“It may sound simple enough … but to be truly free is not a simple matter,”
After a year of waiting due to gathering restrictions imposed by the Commonwealth, Assumption recognized the Class of 2020 during a combined Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 15. The Class of 2020, who received their diplomas last year after a virtual Conferral of Degrees ceremony, is the last to graduate under the name Assumption College as the institution transitioned to a University last summer.
“Influence others to greatness and lead with your soul”
Before a crowd of thousands, Robert Lewis Jr., chief executive officer of The BASE, a Boston-based nonprofit that provides athletic, education and career-building resources to enable student-athletes to pursue a university degree, shared his life story of struggle and achievement and inspired the Class of 2019 to live a life of meaning during the University’s 102nd Commencement exercises on Sunday, May 12, at the DCU Center in downtown Worcester.
“The satisfaction of the restless heart is in God.”
The Most Reverend Robert E. Barron, S.T.D. auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles addressed members of Assumption University’s Class of 2018 imploring them to find and fill their lives with love, for with love at the center of one’s life, one will use their acquired power and wealth in service to others in need.
Past Commencements
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2023
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Curtis Martin, the founder of FOCUS, the Fellowship of Catholic University Students
2022
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Larry Lucchino, Chairman of the Board, Worcester Red Sox
Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Francisca “Paqui” Kelly, Wendy M. Wright, Ph. D., Francesco C. Cesareo, Ph. D., and Filomena P. Cesareo, Esquire, J.D.
2021
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Law): George F. Will, Pulitzer Prize-winning and nationally syndicated Washington Post columnist
Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Vincent Strully, Jr., Founder and CEO New England Center for Children
2020
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Robert Royal, Ph.D., founder and president of the Faith & Reason Institute and editor-in-chief of The Catholic Thing
Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Kenneth J. Bates G’90, president and chief executive officer of Open Sky Community Services
Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Law): James T. Brett, president and chief executive officer of The New England Council
2019
Commencement Speaker: Robert Lewis, Jr., chief executive officer of The BASE
2018
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: His Excellency, Most. Rev. Robert Barron, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
Honorary Degree Recipients: John Agresto, Ph.D., the former president of St. John’s College, and Judith Beck, Ph.D. co-founder of the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
2017
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: John L. Allen, Jr., editor of Crux, and senior Vatican analyst for CNN.
Honorary Degree Recipients: Mary Lou Jennings, executive director of the Sister Thea Bowman Black Catholic Educational Foundation; Roberta Schaefer, Ph.D., founder and first executive director of the Worcester Regional Research Bureau.
2016
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Dr. Carolyn Woo, CEO of Catholic Relief Services.
Honorary Degree Recipients: Dr. James O’Connell, founding physician, and now president, of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program; Dr. Fred Bayon ’65, a member of the University’s Board of Trustees for 31 years; and Michael Tsotsis ’71, a member of the University’s Board of Trustees for 21 years.
2015
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Major General Robert Catalanotti (Ret.) ’80
Honorary Degree Recipient: Terrence W. Macy ‘70, Ph.D. former commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS)
2014
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Attorney and humanitarian Frances X. Hogan
Honorary Degree Recipients: Janice “Jan” L. Fuller P’92 and Mark W. Fuller P’92, the Very Reverend Benoît Grière, A.A, Dr. Paul Carpentier, MD, CFCMC ’82
2013
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Richard DesLauriers ’82, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Field Division
Honorary Degree Recipients: Stephen F. Knott ’79, professor of national security affairs at the U.S. Naval War College; Raymond Lauring, friend and supporter of Assumption University, retired president of Lauring Construction
2012
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Brian Kelly ’83; head football coach for the University of Notre Dame
Honorary Degree Recipients: The Most Rev. Robert J. McManus, bishop of Worcester; Maurice “Moe” Boisvert ’66, president of Youth Opportunities Upheld Inc. (YOU Inc.); and James Welu, director emeritus of Worcester Art Museum
2011
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Rwandan Genocide Survivor and AuthorImmaculée Ilibagiza
Honorary Degree Recipients: Medical doctor, missionary and director of the NPH St. Damien Hospital in Haiti, Fr. Richard Frechette, C.P., D.O. ’74; Thomas Walsh, M.D. ’74, researcher, physician and director of Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program; Susan Woodbury, chair of the board of the George I. Alden Trust
2010
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Richard Lamoureux, A.A. ‘64, superior general of the Assumptionists
Honorary Degree Recipients: Francis R. Carroll, chairman and chief executive officer of the Small Business Service Bureau; civic leaders Donald D’Amour ’64 and Michele D’Amour
2009
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Anne Lynam Goddard, president and CEO of the Christian Children’s Fund
Honorary Degree Recipients: Edmund D. Pellegrino, M.D., the John Carroll Professor Emeritus of Medicine at Georgetown University Medical Center; Rev. James V. Schall, S.J., professor of government at Georgetown University
2023
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Curtis Martin, the founder of FOCUS, the Fellowship of Catholic University Students
2022
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Larry Lucchino, Chairman of the Board, Worcester Red Sox
Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Francisca “Paqui” Kelly, Wendy M. Wright, Ph. D., Francesco C. Cesareo, Ph. D., and Filomena P. Cesareo, Esquire, J.D.
2021
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Law): George F. Will, Pulitzer Prize-winning and nationally syndicated Washington Post columnist
Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Vincent Strully, Jr., Founder and CEO New England Center for Children
2020
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Robert Royal, Ph.D., founder and president of the Faith & Reason Institute and editor-in-chief of The Catholic Thing
Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Letters): Kenneth J. Bates G’90, president and chief executive officer of Open Sky Community Services
Honorary Degree Recipient (Doctor of Law): James T. Brett, president and chief executive officer of The New England Council
2019
Commencement Speaker: Robert Lewis, Jr., chief executive officer of The BASE
2018
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: His Excellency, Most. Rev. Robert Barron, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
Honorary Degree Recipients: John Agresto, Ph.D., the former president of St. John’s College, and Judith Beck, Ph.D. co-founder of the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
2017
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: John L. Allen, Jr., editor of Crux, and senior Vatican analyst for CNN.
Honorary Degree Recipients: Mary Lou Jennings, executive director of the Sister Thea Bowman Black Catholic Educational Foundation; Roberta Schaefer, Ph.D., founder and first executive director of the Worcester Regional Research Bureau.
2016
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Dr. Carolyn Woo, CEO of Catholic Relief Services.
Honorary Degree Recipients: Dr. James O’Connell, founding physician, and now president, of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program; Dr. Fred Bayon ’65, a member of the University’s Board of Trustees for 31 years; and Michael Tsotsis ’71, a member of the University’s Board of Trustees for 21 years.
2015
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Major General Robert Catalanotti (Ret.) ’80
Honorary Degree Recipient: Terrence W. Macy ‘70, Ph.D. former commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS)
2014
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Attorney and humanitarian Frances X. Hogan
Honorary Degree Recipients: Janice “Jan” L. Fuller P’92 and Mark W. Fuller P’92, the Very Reverend Benoît Grière, A.A, Dr. Paul Carpentier, MD, CFCMC ’82
2013
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Richard DesLauriers ’82, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Field Division
Honorary Degree Recipients: Stephen F. Knott ’79, professor of national security affairs at the U.S. Naval War College; Raymond Lauring, friend and supporter of Assumption University, retired president of Lauring Construction
2012
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Brian Kelly ’83; head football coach for the University of Notre Dame
Honorary Degree Recipients: The Most Rev. Robert J. McManus, bishop of Worcester; Maurice “Moe” Boisvert ’66, president of Youth Opportunities Upheld Inc. (YOU Inc.); and James Welu, director emeritus of Worcester Art Museum
2011
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Rwandan Genocide Survivor and AuthorImmaculée Ilibagiza
Honorary Degree Recipients: Medical doctor, missionary and director of the NPH St. Damien Hospital in Haiti, Fr. Richard Frechette, C.P., D.O. ’74; Thomas Walsh, M.D. ’74, researcher, physician and director of Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program; Susan Woodbury, chair of the board of the George I. Alden Trust
2010
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Richard Lamoureux, A.A. ‘64, superior general of the Assumptionists
Honorary Degree Recipients: Francis R. Carroll, chairman and chief executive officer of the Small Business Service Bureau; civic leaders Donald D’Amour ’64 and Michele D’Amour
2009
Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient: Anne Lynam Goddard, president and CEO of the Christian Children’s Fund
Honorary Degree Recipients: Edmund D. Pellegrino, M.D., the John Carroll Professor Emeritus of Medicine at Georgetown University Medical Center; Rev. James V. Schall, S.J., professor of government at Georgetown University