Heinz School Commencement Ceremony

On Sunday, May 21, nearly 200 graduates of the Heinz School received their diplomas at a ceremony honoring their accomplishments.

At the 34th annual Heinz School diploma and award ceremony, students from seven master's programs and one doctoral program were awarded their degrees.

Jamilah Moon received the Otto A. Davis Award, given to an individual who exemplifies the School's commitment to social and racial justice. Matt Voit received the Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award. Natalia Rudiak received the Barbara Jenkins Service Award, given to someone who has made a significant contribution to the quality of life of our community. Reina Tomita was the recipient of the Harry Faulk Scholarship. Ann English received the Staff Excellence Award and Michael DeKay and Janusz Szczypula were joint recipients of the Martcia Wade Teaching Award.

The student speaker was Christy Serna, who discussed connecting values and skills to serve communities and enable change. Keynote speaker Mark Roosevelt, superintendent of Pittsburgh Public Schools, examined the value of public service and encouraged graduates to make a significant impact on public policy. Dean Mark Wessel delivered the charge to the graduates, mentioning the lessons that can be learned from the late Otto A. Davis, second dean of the Heinz School.