Mercy University Will Honor More Than 2,300 Graduates At 2026 Commencement

DOBBS FERRY — Mercy University in Dobbs Ferry will honor more than 2,300 graduates during its 2026 commencement across four ceremonies on May 20 and 21 at the Westchester County Center in White Plains.

The university said five honorary degree recipients will be recognized during the ceremonies, and four of them will deliver addresses to the Class of 2026.

The ceremonies will be held in person and livestreamed, according to the university, so family members, friends and guests can take part regardless of location.

"This is a proud moment for our entire Mercy University community as we launch the Class of 2026 into their careers," Mercy University President Susan L. Parish said. "These exceptional graduates—resilient, compassionate, and driven—are prepared to lead with purpose. We are equally honored by our five honorary degree recipients who built extraordinary careers by living the very values our students have embraced: service, innovation, and a commitment to creating positive change in the world."

The honorary degree recipients include Mark Ronquillo, who will receive an Honorary Doctor of Commercial Science and speak for the School of Business and School of Liberal Arts. Ronquillo is the Donald P. Bellisario Professor of Practice at Penn State University's Bellisario College of Communications and previously served as EVP/Executive Creative Director at Saatchi & Saatchi in New York City.

Aramina Vega Ferrer, Ph.D., will receive an Honorary Doctor of Pedagogy and speak for the School of Education and School of Health and Natural Sciences. Ferrer is a former Mercy University associate professor and a member of the New York State Board of Regents representing Judicial District 12 in the Bronx.

Dr. Ena Williams will receive an Honorary Doctor of Science and speak for the School of Nursing. Mercy said Williams most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive of Yale New Haven Health.

Reverend Viviana M. DeCohen will receive an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters and speak for the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences. DeCohen serves as commissioner of the New York State Department of Veterans' Services and is also a Mercy alumna, with degrees from 2016 and 2018.

Joseph P. Carlucci, Esq., will receive an Honorary Doctor of Laws. Mercy said Carlucci is Partner Emeritus at Cuddy & Feder LLP and served as a Mercy trustee from 2002 to 2025, including as board vice chair, and now holds the title of trustee emeritus.

More information about Mercy University’s 2026 commencement ceremonies is available here.