Temple University's College of Education and Human Development proudly announces its graduation ceremony on Thursday, May 9, at 5:30 p.m. Held at The Liacouras Center, this event will celebrate the proud graduates of the class of 2024. A live stream will also be available for remote viewing, ensuring that all can join in this momentous occasion. 

"As we prepare to celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates, we are filled with pride and admiration for their dedication and perseverance," said Monika Williams Shealey, dean of the College of Education and Human Development. "This graduation ceremony marks a significant milestone in their journey, and we are honored to showcase their achievements. Each graduate embodies our college's community, equity, excellence, inclusion, leadership and learning values. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact they will undoubtedly make as they embark on the next chapter of their lives, Williams Shealey added." 

"As we prepare to celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates, we are filled with pride and admiration for their dedication and perseverance," said Monika Williams Shealey, dean of the College of Education and Human Development.  

 "This graduation ceremony marks a significant milestone in their journey, and we are honored to showcase their achievements. Each graduate embodies our college's values, which are community, equity, excellence, inclusion, leadership, and learning. We look forward to continuing to support them as they enact systemic change and make a positive impact in the communities they serve. Williams Shealey added." 

Undergraduate Speaker: Stephanie Gehret 

Stephanie Gehret epitomizes the essence of a lifelong learner and is a passionate advocate for positive change within our communities. Graduating with a bachelor of science in special education, 

Gehret's journey at Temple University has been marked by her unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. Her profound commitment to helping individuals and fostering community engagement serves as a guiding light of inspiration for us all. 

In addition to her academic studies, she joined the Institute on Disabilities as a peer mentor, supporting students with disabilities in navigating college life academically and socially. She also joined C2P2 (Competence and Confidence: Partners in Policymaking) to advocate for people with disabilities and their families.     

After graduation, Gehret intends to become a high school life skills teacher in the School District of Philadelphia.   

Graduate Speaker: Dara Ruiz-Whalen 

Dara Ruiz-Whalen (EDU '95, '01, '24) has paved her way to becoming one of the newest "threepeats" - a three-time Temple Owl! She is set to graduate with a PhD in science education and will serve as the college's graduate student speaker. 

Ruiz-Whalen's journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Currently serving as the co-executive director, chief learning officer of eCLOSE Institute, and the Immersion Science Program education director, Ruiz-Whalen's contributions to education and biomedical training are remarkable. With a background rooted in formal science education and hands-on laboratory research, Ruiz-Whalen is uniquely positioned to inspire and empower the next generation of STEM professionals. 

Keynote Speaker: State Senator Vincent Hughes 

State Senator Vincent Hughes, a distinguished Democratic leader in Pennsylvania and a staunch advocate for local, state, and national issues, will deliver the graduation address, underscoring his enduring commitment to education and progress.  

"We are honored to have State Senator Vincent Hughes address our graduating class," said Williams Shealey. "His remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to progress inspire us all, and we look forward to the invaluable insights he will share with our graduates." 

Senator Hughes has been a trailblazer in Pennsylvania politics throughout his illustrious career. In 2010, he was elected as the Democratic Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, pivotal in crafting Pennsylvania's state budget, amounting to $45 billion, showcasing his leadership and fiscal expertise.  

Education has always been a cornerstone of Senator Hughes's legislative agenda. He remains a leading voice in Pennsylvania's ongoing efforts to establish a constitutional and adequately funded K-12 education funding formula. Additionally, Senator Hughes introduced the groundbreaking PA Promise legislation to provide grants to Pennsylvania students to increase college accessibility and affordability.