School of Medicine

The Pulse

LSU Health New Orleans Graduates Honored at Virtual Ceremonies

Leslie Capo, Director of Information Services

Hundreds of graduating students in LSU Health New Orleans Schools of Medicine, Nursing, Allied Health Professions, Public Health and Dentistry were honored during virtual pre-commencement ceremonies in May. Faculty, students and their families were invited to participate in the Zoom ceremonies. The programs included greetings from LSU Interim President Thomas Galligan, welcoming remarks from LSU Health New Orleans Chancellor Larry Hollier, MD, Joseph Moerschbaecher, PhD, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, the deans and leadership of each school. Class leaders shared recollections and acknowledgements.

Pre-commencement ceremonies are typically held right before the commencement ceremony to present a host of awards to the student recipients. Students' individual achievements and accomplishments are recognized, and awards include new inductees into honor societies. Faculty recipients of the Allen A. Copping Excellence in Teaching Awards are also revealed.

“The impact of the graduation of LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans' students reaches far beyond our faculty, students and their loved ones,” said Dr. Larry Hollier, LSU Health New Orleans Chancellor. “It is our graduates who take care of people in Louisiana. Some also become research scientists whose discoveries advance treatment or prevent disease and others pursue academic careers to join us in educating and training future generations of Louisiana health care professionals. The COVID-19 pandemic emphasizes their critical value. Our graduates will play a large role in the medical response to this public health crisis.”

The Spring 2020 Commencement Ceremony will be rescheduled once it is safe to hold large gatherings again.