Welcome to SLU's 2023 Graduation Celebration!

Check out the 2023 graduation celebration video, read the message from the Dean to the class of 2021 and be sure to browse through the commencement ceremony program.

Dean's Remarks to the Class Of 2023

Dear SLU Class of 2023:

Congratulations to you and your families on this milestone achievement in your lives!

When CUNY’s Board of Trustees established the School of Labor and Urban Studies in 2018, they created a unique institution with a diverse student body including union members, community activists, and others with scholarly interests in social change and social justice. Our students are members of a very special group–people who want to make a difference in the world even as they seek to deepen their knowledge and advance their careers.

Each graduate here has persevered despite the myriad challenges of the last few years: a global pandemic, the proliferation of hate crimes and horrific acts of gun violence, increasing inequality and an upsurge in white supremacy, and shocking attacks on our democracy. During this very difficult time, not only did you show extraordinary resilience, but a determination to pursue the common good and contribute to a more just society. The education you have received here has empowered you with the knowledge and skills to do just that. You will honor this great University and our School by taking a leadership path in the struggle for social justice, and to make the world a better place for every worker and every working-class community, everywhere.

I urge you to never lose your optimism, your eagerness to learn, and your commitment to making an impact. These are the traits that brought you to SLU in the first place and that led you to seek a life of meaning and consequence. Finally, I encourage you to remain an active member of the CUNY and SLU communities. Commit to life-long education by participating in SLU’s public forums and conferences; help others succeed academically by sharing your experiences. Be a part of the ongoing legacy of the School of Labor and Urban Studies.

Again, my warmest congratulations and best wishes,

Gregory Mantsios, Ph.D.
Founding Dean
CUNY School of Labor and Urban Studies

Future Students
Are you interested in enrolling at CUNY School of Labor and Urban Studies? Find out more about joining the SLU community.

Donate
Support SLU students in their pursuit for knowledge and justice by donating to the SLU Foundation! The SLU Foundation will assist in developing, improving and increasing the school’s programs, resources, and facilities to enable it to provide more extensive educational and research opportunities and services.

SLU Alumni Association
We are enormously proud of our alumni, and whether it’s been two years or twenty-two years, we look forward to welcoming them back to their alma mater.

Are you an alumna of CUNY SLU or of the Joseph S. Murphy Institute (CUNY School of Professional Studies)? Whether you graduated two years ago or twenty two years ago, we want to hear from you! Join School Of Labor and Urban Studies Alumni Association

Career Services
CUNY SLU alumni may sign-up for one-on-one career and professional development sessions through SLU’s Office of Career Services. Click here for more information and to schedule an appointment with a Career Services Counselor.

The Alumni Talk Event Series
The SLU Alumni Association hosts the Alumni Talks event series, as well as in-person and virtual networking events. Alumni are invited to host, facilitate, and plan upcoming events in the Alumni Talk series. Do you have a topic you would like to talk about? E-mail alumni@slu.cuny.edu

Visit CUNY SLU’s Center for Public Engagement for more information on special events and seminars throughout the year.