This past weekend, Marymount University proudly celebrated its 74th annual commencement ceremonies, honoring its Class of 2025 with joyful and inspiring events coinciding with the University’s 75th anniversary year.
A total of 961 students received their degrees—433 bachelor’s, 319 master’s and 209 doctoral—representing graduates from the Fall 2024, Spring 2025 and Summer 2025 semesters, as well as Summer 2024 graduates who were not eligible to participate in last year’s commencement ceremonies.
Held from May 15-18 on Marymount’s main campus in Arlington, the weekend included three graduation ceremonies for each of the University’s Colleges, two doctoral hooding ceremonies, the Nursing Pinning Ceremony and the Honors Scholars Recognition Ceremony. The United States Marine Corps Color Guard and Band added a dignified and patriotic presence to the weekend’s events.
Each day featured keynote addresses from distinguished speakers, powerful messages from University leaders and special honors highlighting the values of service, leadership and academic excellence. In her remarks to graduates, Marymount President Irma Becerra called for values-driven leadership as she emphasized the role of higher education in preparing principled leaders who act with integrity, courage and compassion in a rapidly evolving world.
“As you move to the next stage of your lives, my message is simple—stay informed, stay involved and let your values lead you forward,” she told graduates. “Society needs tomorrow’s leaders to choose service over self-interest, find common ground in divided times and build careers that uplift others. Marymount has prepared you for this important role. I cannot wait to see how you will make this world more just and hopeful because of who you have become here as you learned with purpose.”
Linda Rabbitt, founder and executive chair of Rand Construction Corporation, delivered the keynote address for the College of Business, Innovation, Leadership and Technology (BILT) commencement ceremony on May 16. A trailblazer in the commercial construction industry and one of the most respected business leaders in the region, she shared her insights on resilience and purpose.
“Where you came from doesn’t define you. Where you choose to go, that’s what matters,” Rabbitt said. “A fulfilling career will take enormous amounts of enthusiasm, much sacrifice and continuous learning. But that is how you can make a difference—by solving problems, taking action, being courageous, strategic, relentless and appreciative.”
The College of BILT’s alumni speaker was Valerie Hunter ’03, sector vice president of human resources at BAE Systems, who returned to campus to offer words of encouragement and reflection to graduates. During the ceremony, Computer Science student and Honors Program scholar Blen Begashaw received the Bishop Ireton Award, which the graduating class presents to the bachelor’s degree candidate with the most significant positive influence on fellow students.
Constance Tolevich Fernandez, a philanthropist and community leader with a rich background in corporate management, served as the keynote speaker for the College of Health and Education on May 17. Drawing inspiration from the transformative legacy of former longtime Marymount President Sister Majella Berg, she encouraged graduates to carry forward a spirit of generosity.
“Sister Marie Majella Berg transformed this University. Her philanthropic spirit created a culture of giving that you have all benefited from,” Fernandez said. “Your degrees will build your careers, but your generosity will build your legacy. So, make a life that matters. Let your legacy be one of compassion, generosity and love of humanity through philanthropy.”
Donna Owen ’93, former director of health services at Vinson Hall Military Retirement Community, delivered the alumni address and drew from her career in health care and military service. Special recognitions during the ceremony included the Mother Butler Award, which was presented to Nursing graduate Joseph McDonough for his commitment to faith, service and ethical values. In addition, Dr. Jason Craig, Professor of Physical Therapy, received the Robert A. Draghi Outstanding Faculty Award, recognizing his teaching excellence and dedication to student success.
Carlos Del Toro, who recently concluded his tenure as the 78th Secretary of the U.S. Navy, was the keynote speaker for the College of Sciences and Humanities on May 18. A Cuban-born immigrant, U.S. Naval Academy graduate and public servant, he shared his journey and called on graduates to serve others boldly.
“It is now your responsibility to lead, to believe in yourselves and to put in motion what you have learned here at Marymount to make a positive difference in the lives of others,” Del Toro said. “We need you to be brave and be bold so that this great country can continue to be a beacon of hope for all Americans and all people throughout the world.”
Michael D. Smith ’01, former CEO of AmeriCorps, served as alumni speaker and reflected on his path from Marymount to becoming a national leader in civic engagement. Criminal Justice graduate Cara Craig received the Sister Majella Berg Service Award, which honors a student with exceptional dedication to community service.
View full ceremony videos and learn more about this year’s commencement celebrations here.
