SUNYIT's 39th annual commencement May 11 was a memorable occasion for hundreds of graduates and their families attending the ceremony in the Wildcat Field House.

More than 350 students who became eligible for graduation from August 2012 through the end of the current academic year took part in the annual ceremony. In addition to remarks by President Wolf Yeigh, graduates and guests heard from RoAnn M. Destito, Commissioner of the New York State Office of General Services, who delivered the keynote address, and U.S. Senator Charles Schumer.

Attendees were treated to a surprise announcement, as President Yeigh accepted the largest-ever donation to SUNYIT, a $500,000 gift from Dr. Theodore and Mrs. Melva Max. Dr. Max is a long-time member of the SUNYIT’s College Council and  the SUNYIT Foundation board.

"We’re so grateful to Ted and Melva for their generosity, which will mean so much to generations of future SUNYIT students," Yeigh said. "Their support sets a new standard for philanthropy in support of STEM education in our region."

The donation will support students pursuing "STEM" (science, technology, engineering and math) degree programs at SUNYIT. 

"Our gift is meant to recognize and support the opportunities that future SUNYIT students will have here," Dr. Max told the audience. "I am sure those of you graduating today will find success in your chosen field. And someday, when you are at a point in your career where you have the means, I hope that you will remember this day and give back to SUNYIT."

While hundreds of family members and friends of graduates were on hand for the ceremony, the event was also streamed live for those unable to attend. The ceremony was followed by a reception in the Student Center.