Spring commencement was a memorable day for the Class of 2024 at Montclair State University

 

POSTED ON May 20, 2024

 

The institution awarded degrees to over 3,600 graduates from thirteen colleges and schools.

Among the graduates were a set of quintuplets and students from twenty-six states.

Senior Biology major Mariana Luna-Martinez, a Montclair student trustee, concluded her college experience with numerous hours of community service, work at three jobs, and a Bonner scholarship.

A first-generation college graduate, Luna-Martinez is thankful for the opportunities Montclair has provided, including study abroad.

After participating in various service projects, she plans to pursue a master’s in urban planning.

Iliana Woodhull, 41, celebrated achieving her American and academic dreams after overcoming setbacks to receive her bachelor’s degree in Family Science and Human Development, becoming the first in her family to earn a degree.

Next year, she looks forward to attending her daughter Angel Bernales’ graduation, a Montclair Psychology major.

Their campus commute will continue as Bernales, 22, completes her senior year and Woodhull begins her master’s program to become a licensed clinical social worker.

Woodhull was also interviewed by Telemundo 47 news to discuss Montclair’s mental health services when New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way and Secretary of Higher Education Brian K. Bridges visited the campus to announce that college students will have unrestricted, 24/7/365 access to teletherapy, crisis connection, and wellness programming.

The majority of college students today meet the criteria for at least one mental health problem, according to the National Education Association (NEA), and students of color are less likely to receive treatment.

Counseling centers are overwhelmed, with long waiting lists and many counselors experiencing burnout. 

Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May in the United States since 1949 through events initiated by Mental Health America.