Aruba: In a joyous celebration of academic achievement, compassion, and lifelong learning, Xavier University School of Medicine and Xavier University School of Nursing hosted their joint 2025 Commencement Ceremony on the stunning island of Aruba. Held in the elegant Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Hotel, the event brought together over 200 proud family members, friends, and faculty to honor the graduating class and recognize excellence in education and service.
This year’s ceremony was not only a milestone for the 43 medical and 4 nursing graduates but also a testament to the strength and resilience that define the Xavier University community. For guests who could not attend in person, the event was professionally live-streamed, ensuring that loved ones worldwide could share in the special occasion.
The celebration began on a high note with the national anthems of the United States, Canada, and Aruba, symbolizing the university’s international spirit and diverse student body. Dr. Arun Dubey, Chief Academic Officer, offered opening remarks, applauding the graduates for their commitment and perseverance through years of rigorous academic and clinical training.
A Celebration of Leadership and Inspiration
Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Edwin Casey, delivered a powerful message about perseverance, purpose, and the importance of asking the right questions. “Answers come from those who surround us on life’s journey,” he said, reminding graduates that their success is rooted in both inquiry and effort. He emphasized that “achievement takes perspiration—no sweat, no gain,” and urged students to see their energy and ambition as a gift. Reflecting on the evolving landscape of healthcare, he asked, “Is there an answer to making sure systems bring the care patients need and not just what the systems leadership deem correct?” With heartfelt clarity, he concluded, “You, my dear graduates, are the answer.”
Chancellor Dr. J.G. Bhat reflected on the remarkable progress of medicine and the boundless potential awaiting the Class of 2025. He emphasized the shift toward personalized medicine, noting, “You will be entering the era of delivering the right treatment to the right patient at the right time.” Drawing on his own experience as a kidney specialist, he illustrated how genetic discoveries—like the APOL-1 gene—have revolutionized understanding and care. Above all, he urged graduates to stay intellectually curious: “Maintain that childlike curiosity. Ask not only why, but also why not.” With humility and warmth, he reminded them that lifelong learning is both the joy and the duty of every healer.
President Ravi Bhooplapur delivered an inspiring address celebrating the graduates’ transformation from ambitious students into compassionate healthcare leaders. “Medicine and nursing are not professions you stumble into,” he said. “They are callings you commit to.” He acknowledged the vital role of families, faculty, and the Xavier community in this journey and reminded graduates that “healing will always begin with the human touch.” Urging them to see their degree not just as a credential but as a responsibility, he encouraged the Class of 2025 to stay grounded, remain connected to their roots, and pursue lives rich in meaning, service, and human connection.
Board of Trustees & Faculty members (Photo courtesy: www.xusom.com)
Keynote Address and Honors
The keynote address was delivered by Her Excellency Drs. Melvin G. Wyatt-Ras, Aruba’s Minister of Public Health, Social Affairs, Elderly Care, and Addiction Management. Introduced by Board of Trustees member and former Minister of Health, Dr. I. Posner, Minister Wyatt-Ras offered a powerful call to action. She spoke passionately about the global shortage of healthcare professionals and encouraged the Class of 2025 to pursue excellence, specialization, and ethical leadership.
In honor of her distinguished keynote address, The Honorable Mrs. Drs. Melvin Wyatt-Ras was presented with the Distinguished Leadership in Health Care Award by President Ravi Bhooplapur, Chairman Edwin Casey, and Chancellor Dr. J.G. Bhat.
Honoring Academic Excellence
Xavier University proudly recognized three exceptional students for their academic achievements and inspiring journeys.
Dr. Kevin Ram was named Valedictorian of the School of Medicine Class of 2025. Born and raised in Queens, New York, and the son of first-generation Guyanese immigrants, Dr. Ram earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from SUNY Old Westbury. At Xavier, he stood out for his academic excellence and community involvement. In his address to the graduating class, he shared,“Our journey in medicine, and in life, is not defined by the places we go, the titles we hold, or the money we make. It is measured by the people we meet, the lives we change, and the way they change us.”
The Salutatorian honor went to Dr. Radha Sundar of India, who pursued a degree in Human Biology before joining Xavier’s Pre-Med and MD program. A consistent recipient of the Academic Excellence Award, Dr. Sundar mentored fellow students and is now entering a Family Medicine residency with the goal of serving underserved communities. In her remarks to the graduating class, she offered a heartfelt message: “To my fellow graduates—this is just the beginning. We have worked hard to get here, and now we step into the world as physicians, ready to make a difference. Let’s carry forward the knowledge, resilience, and compassion we’ve gained to heal, serve, and inspire.”
Valedictorian of the School of Nursing, Norely Marchena of Tanki Leendert, Aruba, was inspired by the nurses who cared for her family during difficult times. Known for her intelligence, empathy, and perseverance, Norely is committed to making a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. Speaking to her fellow graduates, she reflected,
“We’ve come to realize that nursing is more than a profession—it’s a calling.”
2025 Medicine and Nursing Graduates (Photo courtesy: www.xusom.com)
Recognizing Faculty Excellence
The ceremony also honored outstanding faculty who exemplify the mission and values of Xavier University:
A Call to Service and Lifelong Learning
After receiving their diplomas, the medical graduates participated in the traditional hooding ceremony, conducted by Dr. Ahmad Abazid and Dr. Richard Pestell. This ceremonial moment marked their official transition from student to physician, symbolizing the culmination of years of rigorous study, clinical training, and personal sacrifice. Following the hooding, graduates stood together to recite the Hippocratic Oath. The Hippocratic Oath is not merely a rite of passage—it is a solemn commitment to the highest principles of medical practice: ethical conduct, patient-centered care, and lifelong service to humanity.
Nursing graduates also received their diplomas and then took part in the cherished pinning ceremony, led by Dean Bonnie McGowan. This meaningful tradition signifies the completion of their nursing education and their transformation into professional nurses. It is a proud celebration of their commitment, perseverance, and excellence. Following the pinning, the graduates recited the Florence Nightingale Pledge—an affirmation of their dedication to compassion, integrity, service, and ethical responsibility.
Conferral of Degrees
As the ceremony neared its conclusion, President Ravi Bhooplapur addressed the graduates one final time. “As we come to the close of this beautiful ceremony, I want to take a moment to speak directly to our graduates. I am incredibly proud of each and every one of you,” he said. “Your journey to this moment has taken hard work, resilience, and heart—and today, we celebrate all of it. You represent the very best of Xavier University, and you always will. Wherever life takes you next, carry our values with you. Stay curious, stay compassionate, and stay connected—to each other, and to Xavier. This will always be your home.”
He also acknowledged the families, friends, faculty, and staff whose support and love helped bring the graduates to this day. Then, with great pride and joy, President Bhooplapur formally conferred the degrees upon the Class of 2025, stating: “You have complied with all the requirements of Xavier University School of Medicine and School of Nursing, Aruba, and are entitled to all the honors, rights, and privileges appertaining thereunto.”
