AM
Ashley Marmaro
  • biology
  • Class of 2017
  • West Islip, NY

Ashley Marmaro of West Islip Earns Graduate Degree from The University of Scranton

2017 May 31

Ashley P. Marmaro of West Islip was among the more than 600 master's and doctoral degrees, including its first Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees, at its graduate commencement ceremony on May 27 in the Byron Recreation Complex. Graduates recognized at the ceremony include those who completed their degree requirements in August and December of 2016, as well as January and May of 2017.

Marmaro earned a Master of Science degree in biochemistry from The University of Scranton.

The University conferred three doctor of nursing practice degrees, 36 doctor of physical therapy degrees and more than 580 master's degrees in various disciplines. Graduates represented 34 states, Washington, D.C., and several foreign countries, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Washington, among others. The programs with the most graduates at Scranton were the master of business administration, occupational therapy, educational administration, curriculum and instruction and human resources.

Kathleen Curry Santora, Esq. '80, president and chief executive officer of the National Association of College and University Attorneys (NACUA), served as the principal speaker. She also received an honorary degree from the University at the ceremony.

A native of Hazleton and a first-generation college graduate, she reflected on her education at The University of Scranton, its Jesuit tradition and faculty members who made a difference in her life. She also talked about characteristics that would help the graduates be successful in life: resilience and gratitude.

University of Scranton President Kevin P. Quinn, S.J., also addressed the graduates and their guests.

The University introduced a new tradition at the ceremony inspired by a long-standing practice in the military used to signify unit membership and affiliation. Graduates were presented with Coins of Excellence by Scranton's Alumni Society. The coins are meant to encourage graduates to follow the Jesuit tradition to be "men and women for and with others" and "to go forth and set the world on fire" and solidify their affiliation with the University.