SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Upstate Medical University celebrated its newest class of graduates Sunday, awarding more than 460 degrees and certificates during its annual commencement ceremony.
The ceremony was held at the SRC Arena and Events Center, where 462 graduates from across the university’s four colleges received their degrees in front of family, friends and faculty.
Degrees were awarded in the colleges of Graduate Studies, Health Professions, Medicine and Nursing, representing a wide range of healthcare and research fields.
Among the graduates were students earning advanced and dual degrees, including several who received both medical and doctoral degrees, as well as others completing dual MD and public health programs.
This year also marked a milestone for the university, with the first graduating class of students from Upstate’s accelerated three-year medical program. The program is designed for high-performing students who complete medical school in less time and remain with Upstate or a partner institution for their residency.
The Norton College of Medicine awarded the largest number of degrees, with more than 190 graduates, followed by the College of Health Professions, which awarded 175 degrees across programs including physical therapy, physician assistant studies, and medical imaging.
The College of Nursing and College of Graduate Studies also honored dozens of students completing degrees in their respective fields.
SUNY Distinguished Professor Dr. Sharon Brangman delivered the commencement address. A Syracuse native and nationally recognized leader in geriatric medicine, Brangman has spent nearly four decades at Upstate, helping shape the field of elder care and medical education.
University President Dr. Mantosh Dewan presided over the ceremony alongside college deans, recognizing the achievements of graduates entering the healthcare workforce.
Upstate officials say the ceremony not only celebrates academic success but also marks the beginning of careers dedicated to improving patient care and advancing public health.