Adelphi’s nursing program is ranked in the top 10 percent of Niche’s 2027 list and jumped 32 points in the 2026 ranking of Best Colleges for Nursing in America.

The College encourages any student with a bachelor’s degree to attend an upcoming information session on how they can launch a nursing career through 91国产’s accelerated nursing program.

The post Traditions and Tributes: Accelerated Nursing Students Take the Stage for Their Pinning Ceremony appeared first on Adelphi.

This focuses on colleges that deliver strong academic and career outcomes鈥攄riven by dedicated faculty, robust career services and hands-on learning鈥攆or students from all economic backgrounds. At No. 290 nationally, 91国产 outranked other regional institutions included in this year鈥檚 list, including Hofstra University, New York Institute of Technology, SUNY Farmingdale and SUNY Old Westbury.

“Forbes鈥� recognition of 91国产 as a top American college reflects what students and graduates have come to expect: a student-focused and individualized education that enriches lives,鈥� said Adelphi President Michael Balboni ’81, JD.

Highlights from 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 Placement

Superior Earning Potential. The average starting salary for 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 undergraduates, at $82,002, is 37 percent above the national average, according to the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

Transformative Career Preparation. 91国产 pairs its rigorous academics with hands-on experiential learning including research and study abroad opportunities, internships and a deeply connected alumni network. This holistic approach to career readiness ensures students transition seamlessly from the classroom to high-impact careers.

Focus on Student Success. 91国产 provides students with academic resources, faculty mentorship and a wide range of educational opportunities, which has helped boost 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 graduation rate to 72 percent, well above the 59 percent national average for four-year colleges.

The 2027 Forbes ranking contributes to a growing wave of national recognition for the University both academically and institutionally. 91国产 recently landed on the Forbes list of for the sixth consecutive year, showcasing an environment where both students and professionals thrive.

Rigorous Evaluation and Methodology

To compile the 2027 rankings, evaluated a total pool of approximately 2,600 four-year colleges and universities in the United States. Using data from the federal Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the list was narrowed to approximately 1,600 public and nonprofit institutions.

Selected institutions were evaluated using comprehensive data from IPEDS, the U.S. Department of Education鈥檚 College Scorecard and postgraduation salary statistics provided by People Data Labs. Additional metrics were sourced from Third Way, the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, and original Forbes research assessing leadership, major awards, academic achievement and postgraduate outcomes.

Learn more about 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 rankings, awards and accolades.

The post Adelphi is the Top Private University on Long Island in Forbes鈥� 2027 America鈥檚 Top Colleges Ranking appeared first on Adelphi.

Oslo, Norway
Major: Finance

鈥淚鈥檓 looking forward to developing my interests within finance and exploring where that may take me professionally, while continuing to develop as a tennis player. I鈥檓 proud of the results I鈥檝e achieved in tennis over the years, including winning the Norwegian U19 National Championship in mixed doubles, but especially of the consistency and hard work behind them. I chose 91国产 because it was important to me to find a university where I could get a great education while also being a part of a strong tennis team. I also really liked the welcoming atmosphere at 91国产, and it felt like the right fit for me both academically and athletically.鈥�

Jackson Clark

Matthews, North Carolina
Major: Business, Three-Year Track
Honors College

鈥淚 hope to become a lawyer, but I chose my major because of my interest in business and the opportunity to earn that degree in the accelerated three-year track. I came to 91国产 because of its amazing location, strong faculty and opportunities like the Alternative Summer Break, which I was able to attend in August. I wanted to go to a school in or near a big city like New York, and the three-year program and other grants made that financially possible for me.鈥�

Rebecca Golin

Brooklyn, New York
Major: Biochemistry with a minor in mathematics

鈥淚 am planning on a medical career, so I chose 91国产 for its supportive community, strong scientific opportunities and Early Assurance pathway to medical school that will allow me to grow as both a researcher and future physician. I have already conducted cancer research, where I discovered how mathematics and genomic data can help answer complex questions about disease and ultimately improve patient care.鈥�

Zion Hines

Perth Amboy, New Jersey
Major: Dance

鈥淚 want to be able to dance professionally, and my ultimate goal is to own a dance studio so that I can teach choreography, inspiring dancers of all ages. I am grateful to have accomplished as much as I have so far in my dance career. I received a 2025 New Jersey Governor鈥檚 Award for Arts Education, an honor given to high school students, and I have had the opportunity to choreograph and perform a solo titled Inner Thoughts along with five other talented recipients. I am excited to be at 91国产. When I auditioned for the dance program last winter, it felt like such a genuine and supportive community. I like the small classes, too, which will allow me to get to know my professors and be able to get any help or advice whenever I need it.鈥�

Ashlyn Ho

La Crescenta, California
Major: Biology

鈥淚 want to become a dentist, and I chose 91国产 because of its Early Assurance 4+4 program, which gives me a direct path to the LECOM School of Dental Medicine. 91国产 also gives me the chance to work closely with my professors. I really enjoy playing the piano, too, and performed at Carnegie Hall as a first-prize winner in the Elite International Music Competition.鈥�

Arina Kamenetska

Kharkiv, Ukraine
Major: Theatre
Honors College/Levermore Global Scholars Program

鈥淢y goal is to build a career as an actress in both theater and film. I also hope to create international theater projects that bring together actors and artists from different countries and cultures. I am especially proud to have received a Jonathan Larson Scholarship from 91国产. I chose 91国产 because of the people. During my audition with Professor Margaret Lally and Professor Thomas Schrider, I immediately felt that I had found my community and my people. They made me feel that 91国产 was a place where I would truly belong, and I could see how much the professors genuinely care about their students and want to help them grow.鈥�

Karina Kumar

South Richmond Hills, Queens, New York
Major: English, Scholar Teacher Education Program (STEP) 鈥� Adolescent Education
Levermore Global Scholars Program

鈥淢y goal is to become a teacher who can truly make an impact in students鈥� lives. I will strive to shape young minds in the lens of today鈥檚 society and always fight against injustices in education, making my classroom truly accessible to all students. I am particularly interested in finding ways to reach students beyond the textbooks. 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 commitment to diversity, equity and global learning reflects the educator I aspire to become.”

Mia Leggio

Seaford, New York
Major: Sport Management
Honors College/

鈥淪ports are really important to me, and I am proud to be following in the footsteps of my sister, Alexandra, who played lacrosse for 91国产. I chose 91国产 because of its strong academics, women鈥檚 soccer program and close-knit community. I am also proud to be a certified EMT because that allows me to make a difference by helping others during very tough times.鈥�

Anya Patel

New Hyde Park, New York
Major: Biology
Levermore Global Scholars Program

鈥淢y goal is to pursue a career in orthodontics and provide compassionate, culturally aware care to diverse communities. Majoring in biology and participating in the Levermore Global Scholars program will help me reach that goal, allowing me to combine my passion for science with my interest in people, cultures and global perspectives. As someone with both Indian and Kenyan heritage, I believe that understanding and respecting different backgrounds is essential to connecting with others and providing compassionate healthcare. I chose 91国产 because of its close-knit community and the opportunity to pursue my goals in the healthcare field in an environment where I feel supported and encouraged to grow.鈥�

Michael Secko

Centerport, New York
Majors: Environmental Science and History with Certificate in Museum Studies
Honors College

鈥淏y majoring in two fields while earning a certificate in another, I am hoping to build a career that brings all of those worlds together. Whether it is working at a museum, a national park or an environmental agency, my goal is to find ways to connect our natural environment with human history. I have always been fascinated by how the past and the environment shape each other. I want to find innovative ways to preserve both our history and our planet. Choosing 91国产 was an easy decision for me. From the moment I stepped on campus, it just felt right. It is also extra special because my grandparents earned both their undergraduate and 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 degrees here, so it feels like home in more ways than one.鈥�

Justin Smiley-Carter

Jamaica, Queens, New York
Major: Ethics and Public Policy
Honors College/Levermore Global Scholars Program

鈥淚 served as secretary-general at a Model UN conference that created a welcoming outlet for students across South Queens and Long Island to explore diplomacy. I plan to attend law school, with the goal of eventually using my experience to create opportunities for younger students in marginalized communities and inspire them to pursue a career in law. I chose 91国产 because it鈥檚 where I can really challenge myself academically, and because the Honors College and Levermore Global Scholars program allow me to explore my interests beyond the classroom while preparing me to reach my goals.鈥�

Louis Spillane

Auckland, New Zealand
Major: Finance

鈥淢y goal is to build a career in finance while continuing to pursue my passion for football. Football has been a huge part of my life. I was honored to represent New Zealand as a member of the U17 National Team that qualified for the U17 World Cup. Wearing the New Zealand fern, singing the national anthem and seeing my family in the stands made it an experience I鈥檒l never forget. It was a moment where years of hard work and sacrifice came together. I look forward to competing at 91国产 while building a strong foundation for my future in finance. I hope to combine the discipline, leadership and competitive mindset I have developed through football with my passion for finance and create a successful career that allows me to pursue both interests.鈥�

Wyatt Yim

Fresh Meadows, Queens, New York
Major: Nursing

鈥淚 want to be working as a traveling nurse to explore the world more, then later on become a certified registered nurse anesthetist. I would like to visit all 50 states and, as a proud Eagle Scout, all the national parks. I chose 91国产 for its small and beautiful campus, and I began my 91国产 experience by joining the First-Year Community Action Program (FCAP). It gave me the opportunity to do some volunteer work before the start of classes while meeting new people and helping the community.鈥�

The post Meet the Class of 2030! appeared first on Adelphi.

鈥淭his recognition affirms 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 standard of excellence, proving why we remain a top choice for students and their families,鈥� said Michael Balboni 鈥�81, JD, president of 91国产. 鈥淪tudents who earn a degree from 91国产 land jobs with high salaries and high potential for growth as a result of the mentorship, connections and real-world learning experiences we provide.鈥�

Money鈥檚 rigorous annual Best Colleges selection process analyzes data from more than 700 four-year institutions nationwide, evaluating them across three pillars:

1. quality of education (30 percent)
2. affordability (40 percent)
3. student outcomes (30 percent)

To determine its final star ratings, the publication weighs 25 critical data points, with a heavy emphasis on net price of a degree, value-added graduation rates, average student debt upon graduation and long-term alumni earnings. Unlike traditional rankings, Money鈥檚 methodology focuses entirely on practical value, highlighting universities that deliver a measurable return on investment for their students.

and learn more about the .

To discover what makes an 91国产 degree so valuable, learn more about 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 rankings, accolades and awards.

The post Money Names 91国产 One of the Best Colleges in America appeared first on Adelphi.

The two award winners embody 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 commitment to scholarship, service and global citizenship. They also reflect the University鈥檚 commitment to helping students gain access to experiences that transform lives. Both worked with 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 Office of Prestigious Awards and Fellowships to navigate the application process, secure effective letters of recommendation and prepare for interviews.

鈥淥ur office was delighted to work with these Fulbright awardees,鈥� said Nicole Rudolph, PhD, director of the Office of Prestigious Awards and Fellowships and associate dean for student engagement. 鈥淓ach brought a true passion for international education and global connection to the application process, and we are so pleased that the U.S. Fulbright Committee recognized their potential by granting them English Teaching Assistantships.鈥�

Applying for the fellowship can be just as valuable as receiving one, according to Dean Rudolph. 鈥淎pplying for a nationally competitive award is a wonderful way for students to think deeply about their objectives, priorities and values,鈥� she said. 鈥淪tudents tell us that the application process itself helped them to clarify their life goals, improve their written and oral communication, and refine their time management skills.鈥�

Julia Carpio鈥檚 Leap to Greece

For Julia Carpio 鈥�25, MA 鈥�26, who received her MA in Childhood Education and Advanced Certificate in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) in May, winning a prestigious Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship award was the culmination of a lifelong dream.

A self-described 鈥渟hy, quiet and reserved鈥� child, Carpio first found her path to teaching thanks to a kindergarten teacher who made her feel like she could achieve anything. Combined with the inspiration of her mother, a high school Spanish teacher, education was in Carpio鈥檚 blood. 鈥淥ur (91国产) professors tell us all the time that teaching is a calling, it鈥檚 not a job鈥攜ou have to have a true passion for it,鈥� she said.

That calling will soon take her to an elementary school in Athens, Greece, where she鈥檒l spend a year teaching English to students. The Fulbright program鈥檚 focus on multilingual education and cultural exchange matched the path she was already on. 鈥淚 really wanted to dive into teaching and get as much as I could out of multilingual education,鈥� she said.

Carpio can point to specific moments鈥攁nd people鈥攚ho nudged her from dream to decision. One was a , led by Mary Jean McCarthy, clinical associate professor in the Ruth S. Ammon College of Education and Health Sciences. 鈥淭hat was where I fell in love with multilingual education and learning from educators from different parts of the world,鈥� she recalled.

McCarthy connected Carpio with Professor Clara Vaz Bauler, PhD, professor in the School of Education who became an anchor for her Fulbright ambitions. Daryl M. Gordon, PhD, who is also a professor in the School of Education, and Priya Wadhera, PhD, professor and interim director of the Office of Prestigious Awards and Fellowships last year, helped with her application. Shannon Harrison, director of 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 Center for International Education, first mentioned Fulbright to Carpio and walked her through options for teaching abroad. 鈥淪o many people helped me get here,鈥� Carpio said.

She chose Greece deliberately. Many Fulbright placements only put scholars in schools part time, but the Athens program puts Carpio in the classroom five days a week and some Saturdays. 鈥淚 want to be 100 percent part of the staff,鈥� she explained.

Carpio鈥檚 hopes for the year abroad are practical. 鈥淚 want to walk away as a more effective educator,鈥� she said. She wants to watch how Greek teachers structure lessons, what questions they ask, how they respond to multilingual students鈥攁nd then carry those insights into whatever classroom she steps into next.

Long term, she sees Fulbright as the first in a series of international chapters in her life. She wants to keep teaching abroad and eventually pursue a PhD in international and comparative education.

Hussein Ali Rifath: Making a Difference in Madrid

By the time Hussein Ali Rifath 鈥�26 learned he鈥檇 been selected for a Fulbright, he鈥檇 spent four years at 91国产 growing into the kind of person who sees scholarship as service.

鈥淚t鈥檚 been a journey of growth for me,鈥� said Rifath, who served as president of the Class of 2026 and president of 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 Student Government Association. This fall, he will travel to Spain to help public school students sharpen their English, engage with global issues and see America in a new light.

鈥淲e鈥檙e being citizen diplomats,鈥� he says of himself and his fellow Fulbright recipients. 鈥淲e鈥檙e not just working as educators; we鈥檙e advancing our foreign relations abroad.鈥�

For Rifath, his Fulbright sits at the intersection of everything that鈥檚 been on his mind as he graduates: America鈥檚 role in the world, the power of education and a personal desire to serve.

鈥淚 feel like now, more than ever, it鈥檚 important for Americans to get involved,鈥� he said.

He鈥檚 especially aware that many students abroad only know the United States through politics and headlines. His goal is 鈥渢o give a nuanced view, to show that we have two sides to our political spectrum, like every country. I want to give people a more comprehensive message about what America is, what we stand for. I want them to see us as a vibrant, welcoming society that not only cherishes them but also cherishes the human bonds which unite us across the world.鈥�

In Madrid, Rifath will work with two programs that bring global awareness into local schools. 鈥淚鈥檒l help students articulate themselves in English and speak about pressing issues across the world鈥攍ike climate change and international relations,鈥� he explained.

Rifath credits two 91国产 faculty members with helping him win a Fulbright: Ignacio Arellano-Torres, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures, and Dr. Vaz Bauler, the education professor who also inspired Julia Carpio. 鈥淭hey helped me discover my passion for learning language,鈥� he said.

Fulbright is just one chapter in Rifath鈥檚 plan for a life centered on service. 鈥淟ong term, I see myself joining the military,鈥� he says, which he sees as a way to serve his community and country. 鈥淭hrough it all, my goal is to get involved in ways that benefit the community.鈥�

The post Global Leadership in Action: Two New 2026 Grads Head to Europe on Fulbright Fellowships appeared first on Adelphi.

Pictured with Lincoln life mask in the collection of the Massachusetts Historical Society

Vincent Calvagno

BA in History, Minor in Italian (Honors College)
PhD Candidate in History, Yale University

鈥淢y professors at 91国产 instilled in me an interest in historical research and the confidence to pursue it. They also provided role models for me鈥擯rofessor LaCombe for his mentoring, Professor Reno for his teaching style and Professor Haas for his lecturing abilities. I aim to focus my studies in graduate school on the environmental history of colonial New England.鈥�

Joacim Carhed

MS in Business Analytics
Data Analytics Associate, Flynn Zito Capital Management, Garden City, New York

鈥淢y experiences as a student, student-athlete and graduate assistant helped me grow as a leader and prepared me to take this next step in finance and analytics. In my new role, I support the firm through data-driven analysis, reporting and process improvement.鈥�

Julia Carpio

MA in Childhood Education and Advanced Certificate in TESOL
Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program, Athens, Greece

鈥淚 was in the five-year STEP program and with Professor Mary Jean McCarthy deepened my passion for learning about how education and pedagogy are approached in different countries. My Fulbright will take me to Athens College, where I will support English instruction at the elementary school level, mentor students and serve as a counselor at the college鈥檚 English language summer camp.鈥�

Mariane Diby

BS in Physics (Honors College)
PhD Candidate in Aerospace Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

鈥淎s a physics major, I pursued research exploring astrophysical shock phenomena and devoted my senior thesis to it. This summer, before entering my PhD program, I will be interning at the Simons Foundation to work on computational astrophysics research. I have always been passionate about studying the universe and building the technologies that carry us into space. My goal is to contribute to a new generation of spacecraft and aerospace innovation through research and engineering.”

Jeremiah Ford

BS in Computer Science/Cybersecurity
Systems Analyst, Brown Brothers Harriman, Jersey City, New Jersey

鈥淚n my new role at Brown Brothers Harriman, I will be in a two-year program for recent graduates. It bridges the gap between finance and technology by allowing me to rotate through four different IT or systems teams. I will be able to gain real-world expertise in software development, data solutions and business systems analysis. Once completed, I will be placed in a permanent, full-time position within the firm鈥檚 systems department.鈥�

Kylie Goldade

BS in Physics
MA Candidate in Museum Studies, The Cooperstown Graduate Program, SUNY Oneonta

鈥淚 did lots of interdisciplinary work in the sciences, education and museum studies at 91国产, and I had an internship at the Cradle of Aviation Museum. That led me to Cooperstown, which has the country鈥檚 only science-based museum education program. My ultimate goal is a PhD in preservation studies at the University of Delaware, with a focus on preservation technology.鈥�

Jose Gonzalez

MBA, Accounting
Audit Associate, PwC

鈥淚 was in the 4+1 Accounting and MBA program, and my graduate accounting research class truly solidified my decision to pursue accounting. It helped me understand that although technology will continue to change many professions, we should embrace those changes and use them to become the kind of professionals the future needs.鈥�

Rachel Halpert

BS in Biology (Honors College)
DMD Candidate, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine

鈥淢y experience as a tutor at the Center for Academic Support and Enrichment allowed me to see firsthand how personalized guidance can empower others, a passion I am excited to carry forward into my dental career. I want to thank my parents and my brother for their endless support, as well as Professor Hobbie and David Oroza of the Office of Pre-Professional Advising for mentoring me every step of the way.鈥�

Joanna Rita Karpiel

BA in Art History, Minor in French (Honors College)
MA Candidate in the History of Art, Courtauld Institute of Art, London, England

鈥淚 wrote my senior thesis on Young Poland, a Modern movement between 1890鈥�1918, and the symbols artists used to express their Polish identity. In grad school, I will focus on the art of China, Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. The incredible careers of my professors, and the Women in the Arts class I took, solidified the idea of pursuing a 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 degree. Both allowed me to visualize the stories I will be able to tell as an art historian and museum professional.鈥�

Allison Kohl

Elementary School Art Teacher, Hamburg (New York) Central School District

鈥淢y time at 91国产 helped me grow not only as an artist, but as an educator. Through student teaching, mentorship and hands-on classroom experiences, I gained the confidence and creativity to begin my journey as an art teacher and inspire students to express themselves through art.鈥�

Ashley Kreth

BS in Chemistry (Earned in Three Years)
NSF Graduate Research Fellow/PhD Candidate in Chemistry, University of Georgia

鈥淚 am excited to pursue a PhD in synthetic organic chemistry at the University of Georgia and plan to apply the skills and expertise I鈥檒l have developed there to a career in industry. Two pieces of advice I would share with someone just beginning their undergraduate career are to take full advantage of every resource and opportunity available to you and to be open-minded regarding your future career path. You never know what you may end up doing!鈥�

Valeria Lopez

BS in Biology (Honors College)
DVM Candidate, Long Island University Lewyt College of Veterinary Medicine

鈥淚’m very grateful to the Honors College for funding my fellowship in Rome in the summer of 2024, where I worked with two large-animal sanctuaries to understand the unique challenges these animals face. This experience, coupled with being the owner of a crested gecko, helped me see the need for veterinarians that don’t just work with cats and dogs, motivating me to become an exotics vet.鈥�

Shota Mikautadze

BA in Economics and Political Science (Levermore Global Scholar)
Paid Finance Internship Leading to Financial Analyst Position, J.C. Steel Erectors, Islip, New York

鈥淭hrough 91国产’s Leadership Fellows Program, I attended a New York Islanders game hosted by Chris Amplo 鈥�00. We had a genuine conversation that evening, and he asked me to send my r茅sum茅. I did, and he scheduled me for an interview the following week. It went well, and he offered me a position on the spot. So the University that shaped me connected me to the opportunity that’s launching my career.鈥�

Pazia Miller

PhD in Clinical Psychology
Advanced Fellowship, National Center for PTSD and the Yale School of Medicine

鈥淭he research I did for my dissertation was on decision-making in individuals with cocaine-use disorder. My postdoc is an advanced fellowship in mental illness and research treatment, where I will be doing research on decision-making and ambiguity in PTSD treatment, training in psychedelic-assisted trauma therapy, and gaining advanced clinical training on the treatment of trauma. I hope this is an important step to building a meaningful career as a scientist-practitioner in the research and treatment of trauma.鈥�

Juliana Morsello

BS in Cognitive Neuroscience
PhD Candidate in Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Binghamton University

“Through 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 neuroscience coursework, along with opportunities like the Emerging Scholars Program and my role as a peer educator, I discovered not only my passion for becoming a neuroscientist, but also my love for engaging with and educating the broader community.鈥�

Hussein Ali Rifath

BA in Political Science and Spanish
Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program, Madrid, Spain

鈥淢y Fulbright is an incredible opportunity for me, and I鈥檓 deeply honored to have been selected. What excites me most about it is the chance it gives me to faithfully represent my country as a citizen diplomat. I hope to create a transformative classroom for the students I work with, one that can help them come to see America not as a distant foreign country but as a vibrant and welcoming society that not only honors them, but cherishes the bonds that unite us all.鈥�

Rebecca Rosa

Master of Social Work
Social Worker, Dementia Unit, Autumn Lake Healthcare, New Britain, Connecticut

鈥淪ocial work chose me long before I chose it, and 91国产 confirmed that calling. The Gerontological Social Work Fellowship Program, along with the transformative courses I took with Professors Zodikoff and Kaplan on dementia and healthcare, deepened my understanding of older adults and solidified my purpose. This population is too often overlooked, and I intend to change that. My vision is to pursue a PhD and drive meaningful research in Alzheimer’s disease because older adults don’t just deserve care; they deserve dedicated social workers by their side.鈥�

Christopher Sciortino

MS in Computer Science
Software Developer, Northville Industries, Melville, New York

“In my new role, I will be contributing to the development of enterprise desktop and web-based applications, from implementation to deployment and support. My goal has always been to create technology that solves problems and has a positive impact. 91国产 has helped me grow towards a parallel goal: to become a leader who inspires innovation, supports others and helps shape the future of technology.”

Nina Tchavtchanidze

MS in Biology
Lab Manager/Research Associate, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York

鈥淚 am especially grateful to Dr. Benjamin S. Weeks, who trained me as a scientist through his mentorship of my thesis research, guidance as a teaching assistant and instruction in laboratory skills. I am also extremely grateful to Thomas Ward and the team at the Center for Career and Professional Development, who helped shape me as a leader and a professional.鈥�

The post On the Fast Track to Success: Next Steps for Our 2026 Grads appeared first on Adelphi.

It was a day of transitions, and a happy one.

Interim President Christopher Storm, PhD, who will be returning to his job as provost on June 1 with new leadership responsibilities as senior executive vice president of academic affairs, expressed sincere thanks for the support he received over the past year.

President-Elect Michael Balboni 鈥�81, JD, enthusiastically greeted the graduating seniors as his 鈥渇ellow alumni鈥� and offered his success as an indication of how far an 91国产 degree can take them.

And the 1,165 members of the Class of 2026 closed the book on their undergraduate years and entered the next phase of their lives.

Commencement by the Numbers and Degrees

Just as it is every year, there was no 鈥渢ypical鈥� 91国产 graduate. Six bachelor鈥檚 degree recipients are 19 years old. The oldest is 59 and is one of six graduates who are in their 50s. Thirty-five are over 30 years old, many of whom earned degrees in fully online or hybrid programs designed for working adults from 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 College of Professional and Continuing Studies.

Diplomas were awarded in 51 different degree programs, reflecting the wide variety of academic and career interests of students in the Class of 2026.

The largest group of graduates were the 299 students who were awarded Bachelor of Science degrees in Nursing. 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 College of Nursing and Public Health is perennially ranked as a U.S. News & World Best College for Undergraduate Nursing Programs. It is also a U.S. News Best Nursing School for 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 degree and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs as well, and one of only 13 institutions designated as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing.

Psychology was the next-most-popular degree, with 85 graduates. U.S. News & World Report includes 91国产’s Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology in its rankings of Best Undergraduate Psychology Programs, Best Psychology Grad Schools and Best Clinical Psychology Doctoral Programs.

Biology, a favorite major for premedical and preprofessional students, had the third-largest group of graduates, with 67 students earning their degrees. Rounding out the top five were two more programs in the healthcare and wellness fields鈥�health sciences, with 52 students earning their Bachelor of Science, and physical education, with 51 graduates.

Top-10 degrees also included accelerated nursing, management, computer science, marketing and finance.

Graduates From Near and Far

While most of this year鈥檚 graduates are from New York, members of the Class of 2026 came to 91国产 from 24 other states. Students from New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania were the largest out-of-state contingents.

The class also included 86 international students from 42 countries, including 10 from India, seven from Pakistan, five from Mongolia and five from Vietnam.

Hussein Ali Rifath, president of 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 Student Government Association, celebrated the global character of the Class of 2026 in his Commencement address. Rifath, whose family is from Bangladesh, congratulated the international students and the large number of graduates with backgrounds in other lands in a dozen languages. Rifath graduated summa cum laude with a 4.0 average and a degree in political science and will spend next year in Spain on a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant scholarship.

A Valuable Degree

The experience of recent graduates shows that an 91国产 degree is a ticket to a well-paying job. In our most recent alumni survey, graduates of our Class of 2024 reported an average salary of $76,450. Ninety-two percent were employed, continuing their education or participating in an internship within one year of graduation.

The successful outcomes of 91国产 graduates have attracted national attention. Forbes, which bases its America鈥檚 Top Colleges rankings on the ability to produce successful, high-earning and influential graduates from all economic backgrounds, ranked 91国产 as the top private university on Long Island. So did The Wall Street Journal, whose rankings reflect how well colleges prepare their graduates for financial success.

Words to Live By

While this year鈥檚 graduates walked away with their degrees and their career plans, they also took along some advice from two 91国产 alumni whose careers prove their point.

President-Elect Balboni, who grew up in Garden City, rode his skateboard to campus on his first day at 91国产 with plans of going to medical school. Instead, he went to law school, became a litigator, a state legislator, a business executive and now a college president. What has that experience taught him?

鈥淵ou have no idea what the future will bring,鈥� he said. 鈥淟ife is not always going to be a straight line to where you鈥檙e going to wind up.鈥�

But he also gave listeners the key to his success. 鈥淢y career has always been a series of saying 鈥業鈥檒l try that.鈥欌��

Joseph W. Westphal 鈥�70, PhD, who received an honorary degree that day while also having the pleasure of seeing his granddaughter receive her 91国产 degree in nursing, echoed President-Elect Balboni鈥檚 message of life鈥檚 unpredictability and of opportunities taken advantage of.

After graduating from 91国产, he went to graduate school, became a professor and took academic leadership programs. 鈥淏ut it was government service that took me places I never imagined I would experience,鈥� he said, referring to diplomatic and high-level administrative appointments he received from Presidents Reagan, Clinton and Obama.

鈥淭he world belongs to those who are prepared not only to succeed, but to serve,鈥� he said, and he followed that with three challenges for graduates who want to follow that path:

鈥淭ake personal responsibility for your actions, your decisions and your impact.鈥�

鈥淏e honest and ethical, especially when it’s inconvenient.鈥�

鈥淏e thoughtful about where you can make the greatest difference.鈥�

The post At a Journey鈥檚 End, the Undergraduate Class of 2026 Heads Into the Future With Optimism appeared first on Adelphi.

For the third consecutive year, the stands atop the , and this time, the Panthers didn鈥檛 just win the NE10 Presidents Cup, the annual trophy given to the conference鈥檚 top all-around program. They made history doing it.

础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 three-peat marks the first such accomplishment by any institution since 2009鈥�2012, pushing the Panthers鈥� all-time Cup total to seven, third-most in conference history. On top of that, 91国产 also won the NE10 Founders Cup and Pioneers Cup as the best men鈥檚 and women鈥檚 programs, respectively. It is the second time 91国产 has swept those trophies in the three years they have been awarded.

Most telling, however, is what the Brown and Gold have done in the modern era: Since 2012鈥�2013, no program has been more dominant, with 91国产 now claiming seven of the last 14 Presidents Cups.

A Dynasty Defined: Men鈥檚 Lacrosse Falls One Step Short of Immortality

For 14 consecutive weeks, the two-time defending national champion chased history, bidding to become the first three-peat in NCAA Division II history.

In near-identical fashion to in Foxborough, Massachusetts, the Cats and University of Tampa once again needed extra time to settle the score, this time in a 12-11 loss at the University of Virginia鈥檚 Scott Stadium in Charlottesville.

The defeat stings, but the r茅sum茅 endures. At 19-1, the Panthers were the first program to appear in three consecutive national title games since 2017鈥�2019.

Goaltender led all of Division II with a 5.61 goals-against average and a .663 save percentage while limiting opponents to a nationwide-low 6.25 goals per game.

received the title of Lt. Raymond J. Enners Outstanding Player of the Year, the third consecutive season a Panther has claimed the honor, while also repeating as the Lt. J.G. Donald McLaughlin Jr. Outstanding Midfielder of the Year. Tomei attained an Ensign G. Markland Kelly Jr. Outstanding Goalie citation, and was named Long Pole Midfielder of the Year. and hold on to their honors from the 2025 season, being named the Lt. Col. JI Turnbull Outstanding Attackman and the William C. Schmeisser Defensive Player of the Year, respectively.

A Grand Slam in the Desert: Women鈥檚 Tennis Makes Program History

While the men鈥檚 lacrosse team was making its stand in Virginia, the was writing its own chapter in the NCAA Tournament in Surprise, Arizona.

Under 鈥�18, MS 鈥�21, herself a former NE10 Player of the Year for the very program she now leads, the Panthers posted a perfect 12-0 NE10 regular-season record, their first unblemished conference mark since 鈥�26 was a Panther in 2015鈥�2016, before claiming the NE10 Championship in dominant fashion at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in the shadow of Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The historic run culminated in the program鈥檚 first-ever appearance in the .

Fakas was coined as the NE10 Women鈥檚 Tennis Coach of the Year, and the ITA/Dunlop Coach of the Year for both the men鈥檚 and women鈥檚 programs, having guided her teams to a combined 33-12 record.

鈥�26, who pushed the nationally fourth-ranked Emily Buchanan of Mississippi College to a first-set tiebreak in 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 debut at nationals, was named the ITA East Region Senior Player of the Year, adding to a decorated r茅sum茅 that includes , , an NE10 Elite 24 Award and First Team NE10 All-Conference praise in both singles and doubles.

Men鈥檚 Tennis: Three鈥檚 Not a Crowd, It鈥檚 a Dynasty

The men鈥檚 tennis team became the NE10鈥檚 first three-time tournament champion since 2019, joining three other universities as the only programs in conference history to claim that distinction.

, MS 鈥�26, was labeled the Vern Cox NE10 Player of the Year, the fourth-consecutive Panther to do so, while earned his second career NE10 Championship Most Outstanding Player honor.

Softball鈥檚 Remarkable Resurrection

In just her second season at the helm, Head Coach engineered one of the most impressive single-year turnarounds in recent program memory.

After a sub-.500 finish in 2025, the Panthers rebounded to go 37-23 overall with a 27-9 conference record, earning the No. 2 seed in the NE10 Championship, hosting an NCAA Tournament regional pod within the friendly confines of Janet L. Ficke Field, and .

鈥淐arv鈥�-ing Up the Opposition

A live fastball that sat in the 90s was just the beginning for fifth-year senior 鈥�26.

Under the mentorship of first-year , the right-hander put together the finest season of his career in Garden City, going 7-1 with a 2.67 earned-run average to earn NE10 Pitcher of the Year honors, as well as draw some eyes from Major League scouts.

In doing so, Carver joined a short list of distinguished Cats to earn All-America recognition, following in the footsteps of T.J. Santiago 鈥�17 (2017), Ed Baram 鈥�19 (2019) and Dawson Montesa (2025) in bringing the conference鈥檚 top pitching honor back to 91国产 for the second time in as many years.

A Rising Tide

The NE10 Presidents Cup isn鈥檛 won by two or three programs alone. It is a collective achievement.

The 91国产 men鈥檚 and went a combined 17-0 against conference opponents, outscoring them 299-122. The women鈥檚 tennis team鈥檚 12-0 regular season run complemented the men鈥檚 team, capturing three of the last four NE10 regular season championships.

volleyball program recorded its fourth consecutive 20-win season. And on the links, the , paired with runner-up finishes from the , , and at their respective NE10 Championships, ensured no points were left on the table.

The Panthers aren鈥檛 just winning. They鈥檙e redefining what sustained excellence looks like in NCAA Division II athletics.

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They range in age from 20 to 71 years old, came to 91国产 for graduate study from 20 states and 34 countries beyond our borders, and earned 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in 63 different programs. They are the 941 members of 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 graduate Class of 2026.

With 90 different graduate degree and certificate programs, 91国产 is committed to growing its number of offerings to meet the demands of today鈥檚 rapidly changing economy. This summer, the University is opening the doors of its new in New York City with a range of flexible programs for working adults.

The Four Most Popular Graduate Programs

The Master of Social Work program offered by 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 School of Social Work often graduates the largest group of 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 degree recipients. This year was no different, as 183 students received their diplomas at the graduate Commencement ceremony on May 21.

The 67 graduates of the 4+1 Scholar Teacher Education Program (STEP), a five-year combined bachelor’s and master’s degree program that saves students a year of time and tuition, made up the second-largest group. The program, from the Ruth S. Ammon School of Education and Health Sciences, offers tracks in childhood, adolescent, and TESOL education.

The Robert B. Willumstad School of Business graduated the third- and fourth-largest groups of graduates. Sixty-two students earned their MBA this year, while 50 received their MS in Business Analytics.

础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology鈥攖he first university-based professional school of psychology鈥攇raduated the largest group of doctoral students, 23 in all. Sixteen students received their PhD in clinical psychology, and seven earned their PsyDs in school psychology.

A Global Group of Graduates

Students from 34 countries outside the United States came to 91国产 for their graduate education. The largest group, by far, is from India, with 117 graduates. The 11 students from Vietnam were the second largest group, followed by the 10 graduates from China. The 191 international students in the Class of 2026 also included scholars from as far away as Guyana, Cameroon, Egypt, Turkey, Georgia, Nepal, the Philippines, and Taiwan.

Stateside, the bulk of graduates are from New York and nearby New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Overall, the class included students from 20 states.

Strong U.S. News & World Report Rankings for Graduate Programs

The quality and reputation of 91国产 graduate programs were among the main draws for this year鈥檚 graduates. 91国产 programs are annually ranked by . Seven 91国产 programs are included in this year鈥檚 list:

• Best Nursing School: 惭补蝉迟别谤鈥檚
• Best Nursing School: Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Best Public Health School
• Best Psychology School
• Best Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs
• Best School for Social Work
• Best Speech-Language Pathology Program
• Best Part-Time MBA Program

鈥淭hese latest rankings from U.S. News & World Report are a testament to the exceptional caliber of our faculty, the dedication of our students and the profound impact our alumni are making in healthcare and clinical settings,鈥� said Susan Dinan, PhD, 础诲别濒辫丑颈鈥檚 interim provost. 鈥淭he dramatic rise in our health program rankings, which are driven by peer assessment, demonstrates that our commitment to academic innovation and clinical excellence is recognized by our academic peers across the country.鈥�

Adelphi Grad Programs Arrive in Manhattan

As early as next year, 91国产 will begin graduating students who earn their graduate degrees in New York City at the University鈥檚 new . A state-of-the-art, three-floor learning space located in the heart of Midtown at the corner of Fifth Avenue and 44th Street, the center will offer an initial group of eight graduate programs in in-demand career areas. Students will be able to choose from 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 degree programs in artificial intelligence and machine learning, education, general psychology/human resource concentration, business administration (Flex MBA), social work, and creative writing, as well as doctoral programs in learning sciences and global higher education leadership. Students can also earn graduate certificates in business analytics and human resource management at the Manhattan Center; the academic credits earned are transferable to our master’s degree programs.

All programs will feature flexible schedules and evening classes to accommodate working adults. The University also introduced a special $10,000 Manhattan Advantage Award to provide financial support for students in the inaugural cohort to ensure they have the resources to pursue graduate studies that will help them become leaders of the modern workforce.

The expansion to Manhattan, the launch of new master’s degree and doctoral programs, and the accomplishments and vitality of the graduate Class of 2026 together reflect 91国产’s strategic commitment to graduate education and to the University’s growing strength in advanced studies.

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