Rochester Student Speaker Jakeith Mosley: “What I’m Building Isn’t Just for Me Anymore”

Rochester-born Jakeith Mosley, who currently resides in Cary, North Carolina, was selected to address graduates and attendees at the Rochester commencement ceremony on May 8. Mosley is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, one of the two big-picture goals he has fulfilled throughout his time at SUNY Empire. The other? Being a commencement student speaker. “Being the Rochester speaker meant so much to me and I’m honored that I was chosen,” he said. The graduate made a trip to New York to attend the ceremony.

Mosley highlights the accessibility of SUNY Empire’s online model as a key component of his experience with the university. “This has suited my personal life balance well,” he noted. The student speaker also emphasizes the importance of the support faculty and staff members provided. “SUNY Empire professors are phenomenal! The staff is extremely helpful and responsive. I loved my entire journey at this school,” he shared. For Mosley, the university’s support went hand in hand with his hard work and dedication. “This is proof that when you put in the effort, stay consistent, and refuse to give up, anything is possible,” he said at the podium during his speech.

Commencement tied everything together for Mosley. “Everyone seemed so genuine and made it feel extremely important and special,” he commented about the bustling energy at the Kodak Center, where graduates, families, and university employees gathered to celebrate the Class of 2026.

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