Villa Maria College of Buffalo held its sixtieth Commencement Exercises on Saturday, May 17, 2025. The traditional commencement liturgy and hooding ceremony took place in the Immaculate Heart of Mary convent chapel. In addition to the graduates, their families and friends, Sister Judith Marie Kubicki, provincial minister, Sister Janet Marie Adamczyk, provincial vicar, and Sister Mary Aquinas Szott and Sister Mary Therese Chmura, members of the Board of Trustees, were in attendance.
The Commencement Exercises began in the College Auditorium. After delivering the President’s Address, Dr. Matthew Giordano, President of Villa Maria College of Buffalo, presented Scott Bieler with the Founder’s Award, citing his many contributions and civic efforts on behalf of the WNY community.
In recognition of the 150th anniversary of the Felician presence in North America and the positive impact of their many ministries, Dr. Giordano presented the Felician Sisters of North America with an honorary doctorate degree graciously accepted by Sister Judith. The Felician Sisters, guided by the boundless love of God characterized by their foundress, Blessed Mary Angela, were recognized as pioneers, leaders and trailblazers dedicated to serving where needed as “educators, caregivers, advocates and companions on life’s journey.”
Following the presentation, Sister Judith delivered the Commencement Address. In her remarks, she referenced the Felician core values of transformation and respect for human dignity. “Education transforms not only minds, but hearts and spirits.” Respect for human dignity supports the life work of transformation, promoting the flourishing of each and every person created and loved by God. As beneficiaries of “the legacy of the Felician Sisters and Villa Maria College,” Sister Judith challenged the graduates to “carry this legacy of transformation and respect for human dignity into the world,” making a difference wherever they go, as they continue to develop their unique gifts for the service of others.
