Highlights from the Class of 2023 Convocation

Zi Lin Liang (MPA 2023) delivered the class address and introduced the keynote speaker, Mayor Bill de Blasio.

The vibrant halls of the historic New York City Center resonated with applause and celebration as NYU's Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service held its Convocation ceremony on Friday, May 19. The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the Class of 2023, comprising accomplished graduates from various programs including the Master of Public Administration, Master of Urban Planning, Master of Health Administration, Master of Science in Public Policy, Executive Master of Public Administration, and PhD in Public Administration.

NYU President Andrew Hamilton delivers opening remarks to the Class of 2023.

The Convocation commenced with heartfelt opening remarks by Sherry Glied, the esteemed Dean of NYU Wagner, who set the tone for the occasion. Following her inspiring words, Andrew Hamilton, President of New York University, took the stage to convey his congratulations and words of wisdom to the graduating class. The student address was a poignant moment as Zi Lin Liang (MPA 2023) stepped forward to represent the Class of 2023, delivering a powerful speech that captured the resilience and dedication exhibited by the graduates throughout their academic journey.

Doctoral graduates of the Class of 2023 — Doctoral graduates, having completed their PhD in Public Administration, smile with their advisors after being hooded.

A highlight of the ceremony was the keynote address by Bill de Blasio, the former Mayor of New York City and the current NYU Wagner Marnold Fellow. De Blasio's presence was a testament to the school's commitment to cultivating leaders who are deeply invested in public service.

Furthermore, during the Convocation ceremony, three exceptional candidates from the PhD in Public Administration program were proudly hooded, symbolizing their remarkable scholarly achievements and contributions to the field of public service research. Their dedication to advancing knowledge and addressing critical societal issues exemplifies the rigorous academic pursuit that defines NYU Wagner.

Laurence Wadler received the 2023 Adjunct Professor of the Year Award.

In addition to honoring the graduates, the ceremony recognized the outstanding faculty members who have profoundly impacted the educational experience at NYU Wagner. Judy Pryor-Ramirez was bestowed with the prestigious Professor of the Year Award, acknowledging her exceptional commitment to teaching, mentorship, and fostering intellectual growth among students. The Convocation ceremony also celebrated Laurence Wadler, who was honored with the Adjunct Professor of the Year Award.

Aisha Balogun (MUP 2023) received the Robert Berne Award for Leadership for significant contribution to the NYU Wagner community.

Several graduates of NYU Wagner's Class of 2023 were honored with student awards, acknowledging their exceptional dedication to public service, their collaborative spirit in fostering teamwork, and their innovative approaches to addressing the pressing challenges of our time. These remarkable individuals have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to making a positive and lasting impact in the realm of public policy and administration.

Two students hugging outside City Center — Students, families, and friends gather outside City Center after the ceremony.

Congratulations, Class of 2023! Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering passion have brought you to this momentous day. As graduates of NYU Wagner, you have not only acquired invaluable knowledge and skills but also nurtured a sense of purpose that will shape your future endeavors. Armed with the tools of public service, you are now poised to tackle the complex challenges of our time and create meaningful change in communities worldwide.

Six MPA graduates gather at City Center — Master of Public Administration graduates gather at City Center.