COMMENCEMENT
COMMENCEMENT 2023
A SUCCESS FOR CDU GRADUATES
CDU held its 39th Annual Commencement Ceremony on June 3 , 2023 , at Los Angeles Southwest College Stadium .
Dr . Carlisle lauded the graduates for their achievements and wholeheartedly professed his faith in their abilities as they forge ahead in their lives and careers .
“ Now , you carry the torch of compassion and excellence that has been passed down through the decades into the communities and neighborhoods that need you the most ,” he remarked . “ Remember that faith will be your steadfast companion . It will embolden you to take risks , to question the status quo , and to move us as a society closer to the vision of health equity that everyone deserves .”
Dr . Diana E . Ramos , California ’ s second Surgeon General and first Latina Surgeon General , delivered an inspiring keynote address . She imparted invaluable insights while sharing personal reflections of her own academic journey , pointing out how her story is like many in the graduating class .
“ I hope that when you look back on this day , even if you don ’ t remember who spoke to you from this microphone , you will remember that you are your own CEO ,” said Dr . Ramos . “ And I hope that you will have been a voice of change . . . that you ’ ve embraced every experience and shared what you ’ ve learned with others . . . and that you ’ ve taken care of yourself – putting your oxygen mask on first – so that you have the energy and strength to make a difference in the lives of others .”
During the ceremony , a profound moment of recognition took place as the 2023 President ’ s Medals were awarded to legendary figures Dr . Wilbert C . Jordan ( posthumously ), Founder of the CDU Oasis Clinic and Dr . Arthur Fleming , Professor Emeritus of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery . The President ’ s Medal is the highest honor bestowed by the President of CDU and serves as a testament to the recipients ’ extraordinary and unique contributions to the institution .
Commencement not only marked the end of an academic chapter but also symbolized the beginning of a lifetime of possibilities and achievements .
With their hearts filled with gratitude and aspirations , the graduates departed , carrying the Mighty Lion spirit of CDU with them as they begin or continue their journeys as leaders for social justice and health equity for underserved populations .
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COMMENCEMENT 2023 Charles R . Drew University of Medicine and Science