The Commencement ceremony held on Saturday, May 10, at 1 p.m. in Pennsylvania celebrated the achievements of several doctoral candidates in social work. The event recognized the hard work and dedication of graduates as they received their degrees.

The ceremony began with the hooding of Diana L. Montgomery, who earned her Doctor of Social Work degree. Her dissertation focused on understanding and assessing critical thinking through active learning strategies in undergraduate social work courses. She was hooded by Dr. Foles.

Next, Nancy S. Schuyler was honored for her dissertation titled "Clinical Perceptions of the Therapeutic Polygraph and the Ethical Considerations Faced." Dr. De Jesus had the honor of hooding her.

Bethany N. Franklin followed, presenting her dissertation on "LGBT Grama During Inpatient Treatment: Increasing Recovery Capital." She was hooded by Dr. Proctor.

Heather Stroman's work, titled "Exploring the Experiences of LGBTQ Undergraduate Social Work Students and Their Perceived Sense of Belonging at the Public University," was recognized next. She was hooded by Dr. Rice and Dr. Grandruth.

Patty Colucci received her degree for her dissertation on the "Effect of Professional Development on School Staff Knowledge Related to Death, Loss, and Grief," with Dr. De Jesus and Dr. Rice participating in the hooding.

Erica S. Devry was next, with her dissertation exploring post-traumatic growth through a group cognitive intervention manual. She was hooded by Dr. Rice.

Finally, Terraya R. Wright was honored for her dissertation titled "Exploring Youth Perceptions of Empowerment and Social Supports in Strengths-Based and Responsive Programs: A Qualitative Study of Youth Transitioning Out of Foster Care." She was also hooded by Dr. Rice.

The ceremony concluded with congratulations extended to all candidates, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys. The event highlighted the importance of their research contributions to the field of social work and the broader community.