D’Youville Holds Special Commencement Ceremony for Graduating Softball Players

While their fellow classmates walked across the stage in caps and gowns at Harborcenter for D’Youville’s spring 2025 commencement ceremony, D’Youville’s softball team was nearly 400 miles away in Pleasantville, NY, preparing to take on Bentley University in the second game of the opening round of the NCAA Regional Tournament later that day.  

The Saints' historic season, which saw them clinch the ECC Championship by defeating top-seeded St. Thomas Aquinas and earn their first-ever bid to the Division II tournament, ultimately concluded that day, but the celebration of their academic achievements was merely postponed. Eight days later, the six graduating seniors—Sophia Arno, Ally Beardi, Laura Beck, Sarah Parzych, Emily Przybysz, and Mia Trietley—were the stars of their own special commencement. Surrounded by family, friends, and coaching staff, the ceremony featured all the traditional pomp, heartfelt emotions, and even celebratory pyrotechnics. 

The ceremony began with Dean of Students Danielle Nesselbush addressing the graduates. “I speak for the entire D’Youville community when I say that the University is incredibly proud of you and is eager to watch you step into the next phase of your life.” 

The student-athletes then walked up on stage as their names were called to shake hands with President Dr. Lorrie Clemo and receive their diplomas as the pyrotechnic sparks blazed.  

Sophia Arno  
Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Studies  

Ally Beardi  
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology  

Laura Beck  
Bachelor of Science in Nursing  

Sarah Parzych  
Bachelor of Science in Nursing  

Emily Przybysz  
Bachelor of Science in Nursing  

Mia Trietley  
Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Studies 

President Clemo addressed the seniors, acknowledging the broader support system behind their success. “Graduates, you are the fulfillment of dreams born long before today—dreams of parents, teachers, mentors, and generations who believed in your potential before you could even see it yourself.” 

Rylie Russo, (D’Youville class of 2020) a former softball team captain highlighted their dual accomplishments. “What you’ve accomplished this year—both on the field and in the classroom—is nothing short of extraordinary. As a former collegiate athlete myself, I know the kind of dedication, grit, and sacrifice it takes to perform at a high level while juggling academics. It’s not easy. You’ve stayed up late after long practices and games to study for exams. You’ve taken tests early so you could travel with the team. You’ve played double, pushed through physical and mental exhaustion, and still showed up for that 8 a.m. class the next day.” 

The ceremony then finished off with inspiring words from Vice President of Athletics and Planning, Ona Halladay, a champagne toast, and an emotional video montage highlighting the historic softball season. “As we close this beautiful celebration of six women who are bound for greatness, I wanted to take a moment to simply thank you. Soph, Ally, Laura, Sarah, Emily, and Mia—Thank you for your commitment on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. Thank you for your perseverance through the challenges. Thank you for your contributions to the D’Youville Softball Program Thank you for your positive representation of D’Youville. We are proud of you and cannot wait to see where you go next.”