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In a step toward a return to normalcy, Illinois Institute of Technology will celebrate the achievements of 1,899 students on Saturday, May 14, when the university hosts its 153rd Commencement ceremony at Ed Glancy Field—its first in-person ceremony since 2019. This year’s ceremony, the first under the leadership of President Raj Echambadi, will include keynote speaker John P. Calamos Sr. (ECON ’63/M.B.A. ’70); undergraduate student speaker Nashita Syeda (B.S. BIOL/B.S. PSYS ’22) and graduate student speaker Henry White (B.S. AE/M.P.P.A. ’22); honorary degree recipients Calamos Sr. and Fred Eychaner; and the conferral of degrees. In addition, Illinois Tech alumni who graduated in 2020 and 2021—whose Commencement ceremonies were held virtually because of the COVID-19 pandemic—have been invited to participate in this year’s ceremony.

Graduates from the class of 2022 have endured unprecedented change to get to this point, one of life’s great milestones. Their resiliency, determination, and resourcefulness have helped them overcome previously unthinkable challenges to achieve their academic goals and prepare them to enter the next phase of their lives. Seven students—one from each of the university’s colleges—share their experiences: the biggest lessons they’ve learned, where they’re headed next, and what Illinois Tech means to them.