Celebrating Commencement 2025

The Catholic University of America honored the achievements of more than 1,300 graduates at the 136th Commencement on May 17. The ceremonies recognized generations of graduates who have made outstanding contributions to the Church, nation, and the world. 

University President Peter Kilpatrick encouraged graduates in his remarks to “let God’s light shine through us to illuminate the world.” 

Bishop Robert Barron of Winona-Rochester, founder of Word on Fire Catholic Ministries, served as this year’s commencement speaker and received an honorary doctorate from his alma mater. He began his address by noting the historic significance of this day.

“It is wonderful that this is the first Catholic University graduation to take place during the papacy of Leo XIV, who took his papal name — at least in part — in tribute to Leo XIII, the Pope who presided over the establishment of this great institution,” said Bishop Barron, B.A. 1981, M.A. 1982.

Bishop Barron reflected on his experience of the University as a rare space where diverse disciplines are united in the common pursuit of the transformation of one’s heart, mind, and spirit.

“Catholic University is not a place where the practical sciences alone are explored. Rather, in all of the disciplines, the searching out of the nature of the good life is of paramount importance,” said Bishop Barron.

Conform your life as fully as you can to love and you will find the joy and the heaven that you seek.”

Bishop Barron shared words of wisdom from several extraordinary figures connected to the University: his great teacher, Msgr. Robert Sokolowski; Elizabeth Breckenridge Caldwell, Professor of Philosophy; his mentor, Francis Cardinal George of Chicago, M.A. 1966; the legendary president of the University of Notre Dame, Fr. Theodore Hesburgh, Ph.D. 1945; and Saint Mother Teresa of Kolkata, who received an honorary degree from the University in 1971.

Bishop Barron shared with the graduates the key to lasting happiness and fulfillment, no matter the triumphs and trials they may face in the future: “Make your life a gift. … Conform your life as fully as you can to love and you will find the joy and the heaven that you seek.”

Honors & Special Awards

In addition to Bishop Barron, the University conferred honorary degrees to five exceptional servant-leaders who have advanced peace, justice, and human dignity:

• Archbishop Vicken Aykazian – Diocesan legate and ecumenical director for the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America; longtime advocate for Christian unity.
• Monsignor John Enzler – Former president of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington
• Jeanne Mancini – Former president of the March for Life who expanded pro-life advocacy nationwide.
• Steven Muncy, M.S.W. 1994 – Humanitarian known for peacebuilding in South East Asia.
• U.S. Representative Christopher Smith – Long-serving congressman and a leading voice for human rights.  

Nina De Angelo, a theology undergraduate student who passed away during her junior year in 2023, was posthumously awarded a bachelor of arts, which was accepted by her parents, Mary and Peter De Angelo. Despite Nina’s lifelong medical challenges, Mary said her daughter “still made sure she got top grades. Anything less than an A was not good enough... It’s so emotional, but wonderful to have Nina graduate with her class today. It was really lovely to have that moment on stage.” 

“We’re so grateful to President Kilpatrick, the School of Theology and Religious Studies, Campus Ministry, and all of Catholic University. They’ve really wrapped their arms around us,” said Nina’s father.

Nina's close friend Maevis Fahey, who studied politics, received the President’s Award that recognizes undergraduates who have made outstanding contributions to the Cardinal community. David Fritz, who was on the men’s rowing team and studied accounting, was also a recipient of the same honor. 

Graduate Reflections

Surrounded by family and friends, graduates reflected on the meaningful opportunities they have received during their time at the University.

Art and design graduate James Broom, B.A. 2025, said “my favorite memory is studying abroad in Rome.” 

The University is one of a select few institutions offering undergraduate and graduate dual degrees in architecture and civil engineering. Annemarie Donachie, B.S. Arch., B.C.E. 2025, said her advisors offered steadfast support throughout the rigorous five-year undergraduate program.

“They really helped me with my schedule and encouraged me,” Donachie said, referring to Jason Davison, civil engineering assistant professor in the School of Engineering, and Ana Maria Roman Andrino, clinical associate professor and associate dean for undergraduate studies in the School of Architecture and Planning. 

After the ceremony, graduates gathered to celebrate at receptions hosted at their respective schools with the sun shining as bright as their futures.