February 2022 Graduates Celebrated

On Tuesday, December 14, students, alumni, faculty, staff, and guests gathered at Faculty House to celebrate the accomplishments of 112 students who will graduate from the Columbia University School of General Studies this February.

Dean Lisa Rosen-Metsch '90 opened the ceremony by welcoming attendees and sharing her own experience as a GS student.

“I know firsthand what a life-changing opportunity it is to be a part of this wonderful school, and what kind of lasting impact your experience will have on you and the communities of which you’re a part," Dean Rosen-Metsch said.

Graduates majored in thirty-one diverse academic subjects and were involved in a variety of activities throughout their time at Columbia.

These included the GS Student Council, the Columbia Korean American Science and Engineering Association, Columbia University Students for Human Rights, the Columbia Arab Music Ensemble, the ultimate frisbee team, the Columbia Ballet Collective, and Columbia’s cybersecurity club.

Senior Class President, Rae Harris, followed the Dean’s welcome, encouraging students to attend senior events and take advantage of the support that the GS community provides. She recognized the resilience and perseverance of the graduating class.

“You continued to work towards your goals despite the quarantines, lockdowns, zoom classes, strikes, and whatever else was thrown your way. That is resilience and that is inspiring—you should each be proud of yourselves. And I am inspired by your perseverance and drive to success.” 

Dean Rosen-Metsch then introduced Marlyn Delva, Dean of Students, who approached the podium to present the graduates as they received their official alumni pins. 

“Wherever you go in life may you always find the light in the darkness, as you found in your time at GS – Lux in Tenebris Lucet,” Delva said.

Dean Delva went on to congratulate the students for their hard work and emphasize the importance of maintaining connections with the School's community. Dean Rosen-Metsch echoed these sentiments in her closing remarks. 

"You are now a part of one of the most robust alumni communities in the world, and you are forever connected to Columbia," Dean Rosen-Metsch said.