298 Degrees Conferred at Graduate Hooding Ceremony Friday, December 12, 2025
"Whatever field you enter with this shiny new degree, use what you have learned to make a positive impact on your family, friends, your work environment and — dare I say? — the world."
Point Park University conferred 47 doctoral degrees, 153 master’s degrees and 98 education certificates on Thursday, Dec. 11, at the fall Hooding Ceremony, held in the university’s Pittsburgh Playhouse.
Richard Gutkind, Ph.D., professor and director of master's programs — leadership in the School of Education, served as grand marshal. Gutkind is retiring at the end of December after more than 18 years as a full-time faculty member at the university.
Richard Walton, who received his Master of Education in Special Education and PA Certification in Pre-K–Grade 12, addressed his fellow graduates.
Walton, who has already had two successful careers in business and ministry before shifting into education, encouraged the graduates to continue to strive for new goals, now that they've met this significant one.
"Set goals and reach for them," Walton said. "You’ve already been doing this. Tonight was once a goal to be achieved. But once a goal is accomplished, it is time to set larger goals. Build on your education and experiences. Whatever field you enter with this shiny new degree, use what you have learned to make a positive impact on your family, friends, your work environment and —dare I say? —the world."
Chris W. Brussalis, Ed.D., president, and Shari Payne, Ed.D., provost, praised Point Park's latest graduates for their dedication and perseverance.
Candidates in the Doctor of Critical Psychology, Doctor of Clinical Psychology, Doctor of Philosophy in Community Engagement and Doctor of Education in Leadership and Administration programs were awarded their hoods on stage by their dissertation chair or other faculty member.
Master’s candidates in the Rowland School of Business and Schools of Arts & Sciences, Communication, Continuing and Professional Studies and Education were greeted by the respective dean of each school.
Veronika Panagiotou, Ph.D., an alumna of Point Park's doctoral program in Community Engagement, welcomed the graduates into the Alumni Association, which boasts nearly 30,000 members across the globe.
In case you missed it, watch the ceremony in the video below.