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Photos: May 2022 Commencement

Saint Louis University celebrated the May 2022 graduates at a commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 21. Check out pictures from the ceremony. 

The ceremony marked the first in-person spring commencement since 2019 after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 event and turned the 2021 ceremony virtual. 

The ceremony featured a number of speakers praising the Class of 2022 for their ability to overcome challenges. 

Andrés Gallegos, J.D. (Law ’93), delivered the address at Saint Louis University’s May 2022 Commencement Ceremony.  

 In his speech, Gallegos, the chair of the National Council on Disability, noted the pandemic changed how the students had to work and learn. 

The Class of 2022 thrived, Gallegos said. He pointed out that the students worked hard inside and outside of the classroom — both studying and working on making the world a better place.

“You worked to make this community better,” he said. “To make this university better. To build upon the Clock-Tower Accords. To finally realize the transformation of the African American Studies program into a full and equal academic department. You did this. You are leaving this university better than when you entered. And that is how your future success should be measured.”

In addition to delivering the commencement address, Gallegos joined four others in receiving honorary degrees.

Isiaah Crawford, Ph.D. (A&S ’82), was recognized with an honorary degree for his commitment to creating inclusive learning environments for the next generation of visionary leaders and life-long learners. Crawford was named president of the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma,  Washington in 2016. 

Patrick P. Lee (Parks ’59) received an honorary degree for his commitment to sharing his success with others and supporting those who care for people with mental health issues. Lee earned his degree in aerospace engineering from Saint Louis University Parks College of Engineering, Aviation and Technology in 1959. In 2007 he established the Patrick P. Lee Foundation. This private charitable foundation provides funding for initiatives to advance education and improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.

Joan and John Vatterott received honorary degrees for their commitment to social justice and helping underserved students find their path through education. John Vatterott is an Arts of Sciences Class of 1965 graduate. In 1969, John Vatterott established Vatterott College — a network of trade schools stretching across the Midwest. The education educational network was sold in 2003. In retirement, John and Joan Vatterott put their energies full time into charitable work through the Joan and John Vatterott Foundation. They have provided funding to numerous non-profit organizations during the last two decades, primarily in the St. Louis area.

A recording of the event, any other past Saint Louis University commencement events, can be watched on SLU's YouTube channel.

Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic research institutions. Rooted in Jesuit values and its pioneering history as the first university west of the Mississippi River, SLU offers more than 15,300 students a rigorous, transformative education that challenges and prepares them to make the world a better place. As a nationally recognized leader in research and innovation, SLU is an R1 research university, advancing groundbreaking, life-changing discoveries that promote the greater good.