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University News

Category: Graduate Spotlights

Bloomfield College Student-Athlete Daniela Vidal Turns Softball Scholarship Into a Life of Purpose

Graduate Spotlight: From grit to greatness, Daniela Vidal is using every opportunity to build a future beyond the field – and lift others with her

Ralph Castellano celebrates his Montclair State University graduation at the Belleville Fire Department, wearing his uniform and graduation cap.

Retired Firefighter Ralph Castellano Earns Montclair State University Degree 50 Years After Starting

Graduate Spotlight: From firehouse to finish line, Castellano’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to service, perseverance and purpose

Montclair State University Employee Jodi Cotugno Earns Degree, Fulfilling a Lifelong Dream

Graduate Spotlight: After years of putting her education on hold, Jodi Cotugno found the strength – and family support – to finally cross the finish line

Connor Godek harvests Black Pearl Oyster mushrooms from a growing block.

Montclair Life: Class of 2025 Graduate Connor Godek Grows a Sustainable Future

In this photo essay, the Montclair State University senior harvests gourmet mushrooms, studies food systems and raises a glass to graduation

graduate holds cell phone to take selfie amid a flurry of confetti

Montclair State University Celebrates Winter Commencement 2025

The ceremony highlighted resilience, achievement and a shared commitment to making a difference

Alex Hatala sitting atop a classroom desk

When ‘Life Happened,’ This National Guardsman Adapted to Earn a College Degree

Alex Hatala overcame challenges including COVID and the passing of her father to earn her degree through the flexible Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies program at Montclair

Frank Rivers standing in front of shuttle, hands on hips

A Chance Encounter on a Montclair Shuttle Drove This Army Veteran Back to the Classroom

Frank Rivers, an employee of Montclair State University’s Transportation Services, was inspired to earn his bachelor’s through a degree completion program

Andrea Uguna-Solano puts on her mortarboard.

International Student Flips Language Barrier into Benefit, Finds Voice at Montclair State University

Ecuadorian Andrea Uguna-Solano’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and transforming struggles into success

Jean-Marie Beeks sits in a classroom in her graduation cap and gown.

From Ireland to America: Former Waitress and Chef Achieves American Dream of a College Degree

How Jean-Marie Beeks found support as a wife, mother and Montclair State University student

Lataiva Balmer, a psychology major and member of the first graduating class of Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, is shown in the college library wearing her cap and gown on the Bloomfield campus. She holds a decorated graduation cap.

Bloomfield Graduate Advocates for Mental Health Awareness

A tight-knit community and opportunities at Bloomfield College shaped one graduate’s journey in mental health advocacy

Sailume Walo-Roberts in her PhD regalia.

How Loss and War Shaped a Montclair State University Student’s Research and Passion for Counseling

A Mother’s Promise Fulfilled: Sailume Walo-Roberts earns doctorate, honors daughter’s legacy

Jersey Joe jumps for joy.

Montclair’s ‘Jersey Joe’ Dances His Way to Commencement

Graduation Spotlight: Physical Education major Joseph Lepinski slides from dorm room dancer to TikTok fame