SYRACUSE, N.Y. — The 500-member Class of 2021 at Upstate Medical University earned degrees during ceremonies held Saturday and Sunday at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown.
The medical school hosted in-person ceremonies for its four colleges with a livestream for the Upstate community, parents, and families of graduates, per an online news release.
Under the hybrid approach, students and faculty gathered for the ceremonies in person with COVID-19 protocols in place, while families tuned in remotely, Upstate said.
The College of Nursing awarded 132 degrees in the Saturday morning ceremony. The College of Health Professions 173 degrees in the event held Saturday afternoon. The College of Medicine gave out 182 degrees during the Sunday morning ceremony. The College of Graduate Studies awarded 13 degrees in the Sunday afternoon event.
Upstate Medical also awarded three honorary degrees to individuals who are “pioneers” in racial justice and health equity. They included Dr. Otis Brawley, Dr. Augustus White, III, and Dr. Camara Phyllis Jones.
The ceremonies included remarks from Upstate leadership and faculty, students, and the honorary degree recipients.
Dr. Mantosh Dewan, president of Upstate Medical University, welcomed SUNY Chancellor Jim Malatras, who addressed the College of Nursing graduates during the Saturday morning ceremony.