Farmingdale State College Celebrates Commencement: Photos

FARMINGDALE, NY — More than 1,300 degrees were awarded among the batch of graduates at the 2023 Farmingdale State College Spring Commencement ceremony, the school announced.

The degrees awarded were comprised of 1,130 Bachelors, 11 Masters, and 153 Associates degrees and 16 Advanced Certificate graduates, from the schools of Arts & Sciences; Business; Engineering Technology; and Health Science.

"This is your day!" said Dr. John Nader, president of Farmingdale State College, in his commencement address. "FSC exemplifies that original SUNY vision by students who are talented and motivated and simply need the opportunity to succeed. You have done that."

Nader shared stories of graduates who have accomplished great things inside and outside the classroom, including organizing book, clothing and supply drives and activities to help their Long Island communities and address needs at an intimate human level.

Every student had their own personal story of struggle and triumph.

"When I was born, doctors said I wouldn’t be able to walk or talk and now I’m getting my degree," said Bernice Jean-Baptiste, a psychology graduate from Suffolk County. "It’s surreal to me."

Carol Sung of New Hyde Park, an interactive design major and recipient of The Ferro Family Endowed Scholarship at FSC, was named class valedictorian and delivered the valedictorian address.