Queens College turns to alum in Congress for commencement address

U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat, a Queens College alumnus, will be the main speaker for the college’s commencement ceremony in May. Photo courtesy of Espaillat’s office.

By Victoria Merlino

U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat, a Queens College alum, will deliver the commencement address at his alma mater’s graduation ceremony in May. Queen College’s Interim President William Tramontano announced Espaillat’s speaking role Monday. 

Espaillat is the first Dominican American and the first formerly undocumented immigrant elected to Congress. Espaillat, who was elected in 2016, serves Manhattan and the Bronx. 

He graduated with a bachelor's degree in political science in 1979, and was a member of both the New York State Assembly and the State Senate. He also chaired the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislative Caucus.

Espaillat notably passed a bill in 2002 that let undocumented immigrants attend CUNY and SUNY schools at the same tutition rate as state residents.  

“I entered public service to make a difference, and I have spent my entire career fighting for New Yorkers, immigrants and their families, and ensuring that the American Dream remains viable for all,” Espaillat said in a statement. “I am truly humble and grateful to have the support of Queens College along my journey, first as a student and now as a Member of Congress.”

During the ceremony, Tramontano will award Espaillat the President’s Medal, the college’s highest administrative award.