Siena College celebrates Class of 2020 with Homecoming weekend

When Devon Hebert, Zachary Birimmer, Michaela Flately and John Cogan found out in the Spring of 2020 that Siena couldn’t have its Commencement ceremony because of the pandemic, it was devastating.

“That hurt, it hurt us all because we have an energy on this campus for sure, that was tough,” said Cogan.

The group of friends were back together on campus this weekend along with other class of 2020 graduates to attend the college’s homecoming weekend and commencement ceremony. For some students it was their first time back.

“It’s just so good to be back around having fun, genuinely seeing everyone,” said Hebert, “there’s been a lot of hugging and a lot of tears of joy seeing friends too.”

After a whirl wind weekend of events, class of 2020 graduates had the chance to attend a baccalaureate mass before walking across the stage at the Times Union Center. Through song and prayer, they came together.

“I didn’t expect it to be so emotional, but it really was and it’s just like that’s what Siena is,” said Flately.

Siena President Chris Gibson says he’s so proud of this class and the college knew it was important to get them the graduation weekend they deserved. “We think about life, there’s always the challenge and then there’s the reflection. Part of that is what we call rights of passage,” said Gibson, “This was really important and we wanted to do it right.”

The graduates say they are thankful for such an incredible weekend full of love, laughter and community.

“I’m glad to have this chapter finally close in such a positive way with my friends and family around me,” said Cogan.