Congratulations to Urban College of Boston’s 2025 Graduates!
Despite an errant raincloud or two, May 31, 2025 was a bright day for Urban College of Boston graduates.
The ceremony kicked off with a parade from campus to the Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre, led by the vibrant Gund Kwok Asian Women’s Lion and Dragon Troupe. This lively tradition set the tone for a gathering celebrating our diverse college community’s achievements.
Malaak Compton-Rock, distinguished humanitarian and author, delivered an impassioned commencement address. Her life’s mission is to uplift underserved communities around the globe with educational access, a mission that mirrors our own at Urban College. Compton-Rock is the founder of the Angelrock Project, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth in South Africa.
As she said in her address, “Today, you join a legacy that champions educational equity and recognizes the strength in our differences and the power of our unique gifts. That alone is worth celebrating. But even more so is your conviction—the commitment to transform your own life, uplift your family and children, and drive progress and protection for your communities. That is truly something to honor and celebrate.”
Three graduates were awarded scholarships and shared insights into their journeys and future plans:
Gabriel Henrique Mendes received the Coard Family Scholar Award.
“When I first stepped foot in this country back in 2021, I didn’t know what my story here would look like, however, I always knew education was a priority for me. All the support I have received from Urban College is and will continue to be extremely helpful as I move on to the next milestone of my life. I would also like to thank myself for not giving up on my dreams, and last but definitely not least my mom for always supporting me.”
Shasalee White received the John and Mary Walsh Scholarship.
“My journey has not been an easy one. As a pregnant teenager living on the streets, I knew what it felt like to be hungry, to feel invisible, and to wonder if life would ever get better. But it was the kindness of social service workers and volunteers in my community that saved me. They didn’t just give me food or clothes they gave me dignity. That experience changed me. I knew then that I wanted to give back to the same community that had lifted me up. Over the years, I’ve dedicated myself to volunteer work in Boston; serving in shelters, assisting nonprofit organizations, and doing whatever I could to help those who, like me, once needed a hand up. Whether it’s distributing meals to the elderly, cleaning spaces for the underserved, or simply offering a listening ear to someone who feels alone, I’ve made it my mission to pay forward the compassion I was shown. This scholarship is not just a gift, it’s an opportunity. It will allow me to further my education, gain the skills I need, and return to my community even better equipped to make a difference.”
Sherling Franco received the Roberta L. Nourse Memorial Award.
“I am excited to have reached this point and to begin this new stage in my career as an early childhood educator. Thank you, Urban College of Boston. I feel deeply honored for this opportunity to be recognized for my academic dedication. I promise to continue giving my best. This motivates me to surpass my limits and strive even harder to achieve my goals.”
These scholarship award recipients exemplify the passion and dedication Urban College students bring to achieving their goals. We’re proud of each and every student working hard to improve their lives.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the theatre as our college community honored Yaretzy Reyes, a determined Early Childhood Education student who passed before completing her degree. President Yves Salomon- Fernández presented Yaretzy’s family with an honorary degree, and her best friend Karli shared an emotional speech highlighting Yaretzy’s firm belief that education was a path to a better future for not only herself, but her children and her community. We’re grateful Yaretzy’s family could join us and celebrate her achievements.
Lai Chen, a master teacher and assistant director of the Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center (BCNC), was awarded an honorary Early Childhood Education Associate Degree. After immigrating to the United States from Hong Kong over forty years ago, Lai took classes in Chinese at Urban College, setting in motion her U.S. career where she's transformed the lives of over 6,000 children through her passion for teaching and mentoring. Chan was formally trained as a teacher in China and Hong Kong and built extensive experience working with immigrant families and co-owning a kindergarten school in Hong Kong. Chan’s students and fellow educators call her Sifu, meaning “honored, wise teacher.”
The college also recognized Attorney William F. Kennedy, affectionately known as Bill, a dedicated advocate for community service and public policy, with the prestigious Robert M. Coard Leadership Award for his significant contributions to the community.
Known for fostering collaboration among Boston’s leaders through a long-standing speaker series, Bill’s commitment to civic engagement is evident in his extensive work with organizations such as Pine Street Inn, Board of Bar Overseers, and Catholic Charities. Bill has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to uplifting those in need. He wholeheartedly embodies the mission of providing access to equity for all members of society.
"The selection of these honorees reflects our dedication to recognizing individuals who foster transformative power through education and service," remarked Dr. Salomon-Fernández.
Family and friends roared with pride once the graduates completed their walks across the stage. These students worked hard to earn their degrees, balancing studies with the common challenges of life such as work and familial obligations. For many, this is not the end of their educational journey, but a launchpad towards their bachelor’s degree and beyond. Urban College is proud to offer several transfer pathways for further education.
Congratulations, graduates! We hope you relish the pride of your achievements before continuing along your path.
We cannot wait to see what these recent alumni of Urban College will do next!
