Honoring Warner’s Class of 2025
Celebrating our graduates and the spirit of Meliora that leads them.
The University of Rochester celebrated its 175th Commencement from May 16–18, 2025.
2025 Graduates
2025 Student Awards
Congratulations to our 2025 student award recipients!
Mary Ellen Burris Human Development Award
The Mary Ellen Burris Human Development Award was presented to Tatyana Gulston, a graduate with a master’s in human development. Born and raised in Harlem, New York, she previously earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology with a minor in American Sign Language from the University of Rochester. Inspired by her resilient ideology, she sought to deepen her understanding of human development and the factors that impact families. She plans to continue exploring this field and apply her expertise to law.
The Mary Ellen Burris Human Development Award is given to graduate students who bring human development theory and research into practice, is named for Burris in recognition of her career at Wegmans, where she used her knowledge of human development to empower customers to live healthier lives.
Harold Munson Counseling and Human Development Award
The Harold Munson Counseling and Human Development Award was presented to Nicholas Rosica and Lauren Esposito. A Rochester native, Rosica earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from SUNY Geneseo and pursued a master's in school counseling at Warner. Since 2017, he has served in a clinical role at Mt. Hope Family Center, where he develops and implements socioemotional learning programs for the Greater Rochester Community. Esposito previously worked as a writing teacher in both college and high school settings in New York and Pennsylvania. Building relationships with students inspired her to focus on college mental health. This year, she will apply her knowledge at SUNY Geneseo to help foster equitable wellness spaces.
The Harold Munson Counseling and Human Development Award is given to students who reflect the mission of the counseling program, is named for Munson, professor emeritus, who initiated the school and community counseling programs and developed the programs’ high standards recognized by school districts and community agencies.
Logan R. Hazen Award for Educational Leadership
The Logan R. Hazen Award for Educational Leadership was presented to three graduates: Leif Johansen, Marvin Herrera, and Ava Gervan. Johansen, from the Catskill Mountains, earned a bachelor's in economics and political science from the University of Rochester and has worked as an international admissions officer in Rochester's Office of Undergraduate Admissions since 2021. Herrera, a first-generation graduate from Orange County, California, holds a bachelor’s in social work and completed a master’s in educational administration, specializing in student affairs and academic and career advising. Gervan, originally from Buffalo, earned her bachelor’s in advertising & public relations from Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), where she was introduced to the world of higher education. While pursuing a master's in educational leadership at Warner, she worked in the University of Rochester’s Center for Education Abroad and remains dedicated to fostering inclusive educational experiences.
The Logan R. Hazen Award for Educational Leadership is given to students based on academic success and a commitment to educational administration, is named for Hazen, professor emeritus, who mentored student affairs professionals and taught courses in higher education, while serving as the program director.
Eleanore F. Larson Award for Excellence in Teaching
The Eleanore F. Larson Award for Excellence in Teaching was presented to Katrina Grantham and Eric Soublet. Grantham transitions from a career in actuary, beginning her master’s program while serving as a long-term substitute teacher in a fifth-grade classroom at Anna-Murray Douglass Academy in the Rochester City School District. She plans to teach inclusive childhood education, focusing on integrating the arts to enhance student learning. She hopes to explore her passion for art-core integration while teaching inclusive childhood education following graduation. Soublet, a Rochester native, was inspired to pursue a graduate degree in education after a transformative experience teaching in a local newcomer program. He currently teaches English as a New Language in the Rochester City School District and plans to continue serving the local community
The Eleanore F. Larson Award for Excellence in Teaching, which recognizes students for their commitment to teaching, is named for Larson, a former professor who inspired her students to embrace a strong commitment to the education of children.
Tyll van Geel Educational Leadership Award
The Tyll van Geel Award was presented to Tara Leigh Sands. A South Jersey native, first-generation college student, and 19-year higher education practitioner, Sands completed her EdD in educational administration with a specialization in higher education. Her professional journey, focused on student success, inspired her to pursue doctoral studies. She currently works at Rowan College in Burlington County, where she aims to continue positively impacting community college students.
The Tyll van Geel Award is named for van Geel, professor emeritus, who is a scholar of education law and applied ethical issues in education who was instrumental in designing the educational leadership program. The award is presented to doctoral students in educational leadership who demonstrate van Geel’s commitment to ethical leadership and decision-making, and application of scholarship to practice.
University Commencement Website
The University of Rochester has set up a website including schedules, student regalia, tickets & guests, frequently asked questions, a celebration toolkit and other important information and updates.
Re-Watch the Ceremony
University of Rochester 175th Commencement Book
View the PDF to review the full 2025 program and roster of degree candidates.
Join the Celebration
Share your congratulations and celebrate with us!
Take advantage of the University's Celebration toolkit that includes cover photos, zoom backgrounds, mortarboard cut-outs and more.
On social media, use the hashtags #UR2025 and #URWarner2025, and don't forget to tag the Warner School. We look forward to seeing and sharing your posts!