Students at Graduation

Meet the Remarkable Voices of Mercy’s Class of 2025!

Behind every diploma lies a story of perseverance and growth, and these student speakers represent the heart of our academic community. Their journeys to and through Mercy are filled with determination, transformation and excellence. From international scholars to first-generation graduates, each speaker brings unique perspectives shaped by the Mercy experience. 

Join us in celebrating their achievements as they inspire fellow graduates with words of wisdom and hope. 
 

School of Business

Simon Steffensen

Simon Steffensen

Simon Steffensen

Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Management and Finance

Simon Steffensen came to the U.S. from Aalborg, Denmark, to pursue his academic and athletic goals. At Mercy University, he maintained a 4.0 GPA while serving as Vice President of the Consulting Club, heading Communications for the Finance and Data Club and interning at the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He’s also a student athlete on the men’s soccer team and a Teaching Assistant/Tutor in business courses. A first-season highlight came when he saved the championship-winning penalty kick, alleviating his homesickness through team celebration. When he tore his ACL, he was faced with a challenge, but he refocused, put things into perspective and found new passions and embraced new opportunities. He found himself drawn to leadership roles. Simon later took part in the Business Honors trip to Madrid, visiting companies while building lasting connections. For Simon, being selected as commencement speaker is proof that challenges aren’t the end – they’re just part of the journey. This moment represents resilience, growth, and the power of pushing forward, no matter what.

Simon’s advice to fellow graduates and future Mercy students: “My biggest piece of advice is to keep working hard – because it truly pays off. There will be challenges, setbacks and moments of doubt, but if you stay persistent and put in the effort, you’ll see the results. Remember, failure is part of the journey. Stay curious, stay humble and always keep pushing forward.”

Corinne Sherry

Corinne Sherry

Corinne Sherry 

Master’s in Business Analytics 

Corinne Sherry first connected with Mercy University during a high school business honors summer program. Now living in the Princeton, NJ area, she returned to Mercy for graduate studies, drawn by the program's flexibility while also working as an analyst at Bloomberg. 

Corinne balanced full-time work with academics, directly applying classroom learning to advance her career. Her breakthrough moment came when programming concepts finally clicked, opening new professional opportunities. Her proudest accomplishment was completing her first Python project, because she was able to leverage that experience for a new role at work. After COVID-19 restrictions lifted, returning to in-person classes reignited her love of learning through open discussion. Corinne aims to share her professional experience by becoming an adjunct teacher at a local university, continuing her journey as both learner and educator. Fun fact: people are often surprised to learn that  Corinne has swum with sharks!

Corinne’s advice to fellow graduates: “I encourage fellow students to never stop learning and always pursue knowledge. Whether they are entering the workforce for the first time or continuing to another degree.”

School of Education

Josefa Martinez

Josefa Martinez

Josefa Martinez

Master’s in Early Childhood Education, Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities

Josefa Martinez’s journey began when she supported her sons' learning during the COVID-19 lockdown, discovering a passion for teaching and ensuring that her children had equal opportunities to succeed academically. While working full-time in health care for more than 10 years, Josefa maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA and is involved in the Mercy University Education Scholar.

Her selection to attend the Branch Alliance for Educator Diversity in Atlanta, where she presented on fostering connections between educators and communities, proved transformative. Josefa now teaches as a pre-kindergarten dual-language educator, bringing her health care background and educational expertise to young learners.

Josefa’s advice to fellow graduates and future students: “Remember that success isn’t always a straight line, but if you stay determined and follow your passion, you’ll get where you want to go. Keep believing in yourself, stay curious, and never stop learning. Our future is full of endless opportunities.”

School of Health and Natural Sciences

Jennifer Hernandez

Jennifer Hernandez

Jennifer Hernandez

Bachelor’s in Health Science, Pre-OT Track

Jennifer Hernandez is a proud first-generation Latina and adult learner. Her selection as an Anatomy and Physiology Fellow and Teaching Assistant affirmed her place at Mercy while mentoring fellow students.

Jennifer balanced full-time work with academics, building on her experience and advancing from receptionist to an administrative role in a physical therapy practice. Working full-time also taught her discipline, perseverance and confidence in her abilities, supported by the robust resources Mercy provides. Jennifer was inducted into the Alpha Eta Honors Society and consistently earned placement on the Dean’s List. Her acceptance into the Occupational Therapy (OT) master's program validated her academic efforts. Jennifer enjoyed bringing her little sister to campus events like the Founders’ Festival, strengthening her connection to the Mercy community. She continues at Mercy this fall in the OT master's program, aiming to serve the geriatric population after licensure.

Jennifer’s advice to fellow graduates: “Embrace every challenge, keep pushing forward and remember that, just like our mascot, the Maverick, we are resilient, determined, and capable of overcoming anything that comes our way. Be proud of yourself, you did it. Congratulations!”

Keyanni Gales

Keyanni Gales

Keyanni Gales

Master’s in Communication Disorders

Keyanni Gales transferred to Mercy University after earning an associate’s degree at her hometown’s community college. The supportive environment and knowledgeable faculty drew Keyanni back for graduate studies.

As the Communication Disorders Department Student Worker and National Student Speech Language Hearing Association event participant, Keyanni embraced the department's family atmosphere. Despite preferring behind-the-scenes roles, Keyanni stepped outside comfort zones to accept speaking honors while being inducted into Alpha Eta Honor Society. With the Department of Education Scholarship, Keyanni begins work as a Clinical Fellowship in Speech-Language Pathology in the Bronx this fall, with plans for private practice experience and eventual doctoral studies.

Keyanni’s advice to fellow graduates: “Continue to strive for greatness and use others’ doubt as fuel for your success!”