University’s Celebration of Excellence Recognizes Members of the Class of 2023

When Temitope Akerele ’23 M.S. accepted his master’s degree during Commencement, he became the first person in his family to earn a graduate degree. His educational journey brought him from his home country of Nigeria to the U.S. during a global pandemic – and he persevered.

A new graduate of the University’s master’s degree program in engineering and operations management, Akerele was recognized as part of the University’s Celebration of Excellence. The annual ceremony is a meaningful way for underrepresented graduate and undergraduate students to celebrate their accomplishments together shortly before Commencement.

While sharing his story and his reflections with his fellow Chargers as part of the ceremony, Akerele described the challenges he overcame while adjusting to a new culture and country. As he became a champion of diversity and unity on campus, he served as president of the African Student Union, and he helped his fellow African students to feel a sense of community.

“The University of New Haven is not just a citadel of learning, but one of character,” he said. “I found a home away from home.”

‘You are doers’

Hosted by the University’s Myatt Center for Diversity and Inclusion, the event encouraged students to reflect on how far they have come during their time as Chargers. For Nicole Harry ’23, ’25 M.S., that meant facing the imposter syndrome she says she experienced, as well as building her confidence. She did just that, eventually serving in a variety of leadership positions, including as president of the Women of Color Collective. She also earned the opportunity to serve as coordinator of the University’s President’s Public Service Fellowship program this summer.

“Initially, I felt discouraged and reluctant to participate in class, but I began to get involved,” said Harry, who earned a bachelor’s degree in biology and will pursue a master’s degree in cellular and molecular biology. “I expanded my knowledge, and I became more present in my journey. It’s possible to make gold out of dust. I saw the power of community and the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and belonging initiatives on campus.”

The event brought together students as well as University faculty and staff, who offered their support and encouragement. Interim president Sheahon Zenger, Ph.D., commended members of the Class of 2023 for their resilience – in particular, for persevering during the COVID pandemic.

“It’s great to be together to celebrate those who are graduating,” he said. “This group represents students of purpose. You are doers, and I like to think the University is your amplifier. I think of you as overcomers, and I’m glad we can be part of your success.”

‘I found people who looked like me’

For Gailen Duggan ’23, overcoming meant navigating the challenges of being a first-generation student while also addressing imposter syndrome. Duggan persevered, taking a “leap of faith” and joining the University’s Juvenile Justice Club’s executive board.

“At times, I felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders, but I kept pushing it up,” said Duggan, who earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and served as a Diversity Peer Educator. “One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to education. I had to adapt. My decisions to get involved changed my life for the better. I found a network of people from all backgrounds. Take the step you are afraid to take. If you don’t, greatness can’t come.”

As part of the celebration, Ivo E. Philbert ’88 delivered the keynote address. Vice president of community engagement, partnership, and communications for the Jackie Robinson Foundation and the Jackie Robinson Museum, Philbert told the Class of 2023 about his own journey.

Philbert, who grew up on the island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, says the decision to attend the University was easy. He says he found a community, and he welcomed the Class of 2023 to the University’s alumni network.

“I found people who looked like me at the University,” said Philbert, a former president of the Black Student Union. “Our similarities created creature comforts and friendships. I learned to be a leader. I hope you know your value and know your options. Don’t settle or lower your value.”

‘You didn’t come this far to give up’

The Celebration of Excellence was created to be inclusive, bringing together students of all underrepresented groups, from students of color and first-generation students to international students. The inaugural ceremony was held virtually three years ago amid the pandemic. The event, which has grown in participation, is now held in person. Graduating students receive cords, bestowed on them by juniors who expressed their support.

For Akerele, the new grad of the master’s in engineering and operations management program, being a part of the event and celebrating with his fellow Chargers was an important way to reflect on how far they’ve come while looking to the future. He offered his fellow graduates his support and a piece of important advice.

“It’s okay to feel lost and inadequate due to past experiences,” he said. “We are human. Remember, you are not alone. You didn’t come this far to give up.”