Queensborough Community College, the highest-ranked community college in New York State, celebrated its 64th Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 29, awarding degrees to more than 1,600 graduates.
Held on the college’s Bayside campus, the ceremony was presided over by President Dr. Christine Mangino and attended by college officials, faculty, special guests, and proud families. “This morning you will become official graduates of Queensborough Community College,” Mangino told the crowd, praising the strength and determination of the Class of 2025.
The ceremony featured remarks from Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and Council Member Linda Lee, who acknowledged the students’ diverse backgrounds and their potential as future leaders. “Education is the great equalizer that unlocks the potential of our communities,” said Richards. Lee added, “You are our leaders, our future—representation matters.”
Valedictorian Emmanuel Ford, who was born blind and lives with cerebral palsy, delivered a stirring address that received a standing ovation. Ford, who graduated with a 4.0 GPA and an associate degree in liberal arts, shared his journey of overcoming doubt and societal barriers. “In high school, I was told I wasn’t college material,” Ford said. “But I knew who I was—and so did Queensborough.” He credited the college’s student support services, internships, and mentoring programs with helping him succeed. He received his valedictorian certificate in braille.
The ceremony also honored Salutatorian Daniel Volin, who returned to education after recovering from serious illness and job loss during the COVID-19 pandemic. Volin earned an associate degree in Internet & Information Technology, symbolizing the life-changing role community colleges can play for adult learners.
Several students received distinguished awards for academic and leadership achievements. Cynthia Saravia-Reyes, a student-athlete and liberal arts graduate, was awarded the John P. Bevilacqua Athletic Scholarship Award. Soraya Bouhiza received the John F. Kennedy Award, given to a graduating student who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in the College and the community. Nazmul Arefin, outgoing student government president and founder of the Bangladesh Student Association, received the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award for promoting racial harmony and cultural diversity.
Among the many inspiring stories from the Class of 2025 was that of mother-daughter graduates Karen Thomas-Lambert and Reign Elise Lambert, who crossed the stage together at Thursday’s ceremony. The duo, who both earned associate degrees from Queensborough, are now set to continue their academic journey at Baruch College, where they will pursue bachelor’s degrees.
Other notable guests included Shirley Chen of the QCC Fund Board, and Patricia Henry, principal of Business Technology Early College High School. City University of New York (CUNY) officials in attendance included Dolly Martinez, Chancellor’s Chief of Staff, and Daniel Reden, student trustee of the CUNY Board of Trustees.
Founded in 1959, Queensborough Community College is part of the CUNY system and currently serves over 13,000 students. It has consistently ranked among the top community colleges nationwide.
As graduates prepare for the next chapter—whether continuing their education or entering the workforce—President Mangino reminded them, “You are Queensborough Proud—and you are ready.”
