California State University Los Angeles Commencement Ceremony: College of Business and Economics 2023

Key Highlights

Opening Remarks

• Theme: Reflecting on the city of Los Angeles and Cal State LA as centers of innovation, opportunity, and progress.
• Slogan: "Cal State LA: Ranked number one in the nation for Upward Mobility."

Ceremony Overview

• Introduction: Dean Ty Jackson of the College of Business and Economics opened the ceremony.
• Acknowledgment: Land acknowledgment for the Tongva people, traditional caretakers of the Los Angeles Basin and surrounding areas.
• Faculty Recognition: Acknowledgment and thanks to faculty, staff, and administration for their role in student success.

Highlights from President William A. Covino’s Speech

• Reflection on Achievement: Students celebrated for their hard work and dedication.
• Role of Faculty and Staff: Recognition of the contributions made by faculty and staff to the student experience.
• Introduction of University Officials: Recognition of several key university officials present at the ceremony.
• Closing Remarks as President: President Covino’s final commencement ceremony after a decade in service.

Keynote Address by Dr. Guillermo Zuniga

• Background: Dr. Zuniga’s journey from a manufacturing technician to President of Grifols Biologicals LLC.
• Connection to Cal State LA: Emphasized the importance of the University in his career and personal development.
• Advice to Graduates: Importance of presenting one’s best self, having multiple plans, and helping others.

Student Recognition

• Honors Graduates: Recognition of students graduating with honors.
• Veterans: Special acknowledgment of the 72 veterans graduating.

Conferral of Degrees

• Master’s Degrees: Hooding ceremony for Master’s degree recipients led by Dean Ty Jackson.
• Bachelor’s Degrees: Conferral of Baccalaureate degrees and graduates moving their tassels from right to left.

Conclusion

• Thanks and Invitations: Faculty, staff, and volunteers recognized. Graduates and guests invited to meet outside the Pavilion.
• University Anthem: Closing with the university hymn.
• End of Ceremony: Instructions for leaving the Pavilion and meeting guests.

Noteworthy Quotes and Themes

• Artificial vs. Authentic Intelligence: Highlight of the unique potential and authenticity of the graduates as opposed to artificial intelligence.
• Community and Family Support: Emphasis on the role of family and community in student success.
• Upward Mobility: Noted significance of Cal State LA’s rank in promoting upward mobility.

General Observations

• Celebratory Atmosphere: The ceremony was marked by applause, cheers, and a sense of achievement.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Reflected in the land acknowledgment and recognition of first-generation graduates.

Important University Officials Present

• Vice Chair of the CSU Board of Trustees: Jack Clark Jr.
• Guest Speaker: Dr. Guillermo Zuniga, Cal State LA Alumnus.
• Academic Senate Chair: Dr. Chris Besdesny.
• Library Dean: Carlos Rodriguez.
• Provost: Jose Gomez.
• VP for Advancement: Robert Avalos.
• VP for Administration and Finance: Queen King.
• VP for Student Life: Grace Castillo.
• Dean of Students: Danielle Chambers.
• ASI President: Yahir Flores.