Saturday, May 17, 2025
Distinguished choral composer Dr. Rosephanye Powell ’87 receives honorary Doctor of Music
by Adam Grybowski
Nearly 400 graduate and doctoral degrees were awarded during Rider University’s graduate and doctoral Commencement ceremony at the CURE Insurance Arena in Trenton, New Jersey, on Saturday, May 17.
Rider’s president, Gregory G. Dell’Omo, Ph.D., remarked upon the significance of earning an advanced degree, especially for those who balanced work, family and other commitments with their classwork.
“The knowledge, skills, experiences and relationships you have developed at Rider are lifetime assets that will help you meet future challenges with conviction and embrace new opportunities,” said Dell’Omo, who is retiring this summer and was presiding over the final Commencement day of his career. He and his wife, Polly, were both honored during the ceremony for their decade of commitment to Rider and its students.
Dr. Rosephanye Powell ’87, widely recognized as one of America’s most distinguished choral composers, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Music during the graduate and doctoral ceremony.
“Graduates, as you begin this new journey, let love, integrity and courage be the light that directs your path,” said Powell, who earned a master’s degree in vocal performance and pedagogy from Westminster Choir College in 1987. “May an unwavering commitment to serving others illuminate your way, lifting not only yourself but those you encounter along the way.”
Of the 392 students who were awarded degrees in this year’s graduate class, 72% came from New Jersey. In total, 19 states in the U.S. were represented by graduates, including Minnesota, Tennessee and Washington. Thirty-three students also represented 11 countries outside of the U.S., including Ghana, Nepal and Spain.
Karen Altice Stutzman '25, a musician, teacher and mother of two who earned a master’s degree in sacred music, was the ceremony’s student speaker. She spoke about finding the courage to take the leap into the unknown.
“Enough people who love me believed in me,” said Stutzman, who returned to school two decades after completing her undergraduate degree. “They pushed me beyond what I believed was my capacity.”
About two-thirds of this year’s graduate class were female. One hundred and thirty six graduates, or 35%, were underrepresented students. A full third of the class, or 130 students, received their undergraduate degrees from Rider.
However many diplomas they hold from Rider, Dell’Omo encouraged the graduates to return often to their alma mater.
“You will always be welcome home with open arms,” he said. “Remember, once a Bronc, always a Bronc.”
