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�鶹���� proudly celebrated the graduation of 106 master’s and doctoral degree recipients from the College of Health Sciences on August 21, 2025, on its Glendale Campus. The ceremony marked the beginning of professional healthcare careers for graduates entering the fields of Clinical Psychology, Nurse Anesthesia Practice, and Adult Gerontology Graduate Nursing.
During the ceremony, graduates received inspirational messages from their Dean, University leaders, and Captain Ashton Dessert, United States Air Force, a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) Program graduate.

“We are a graduating class that is united by differences. We are first-generation students, first-generation doctors, partners, parents, and members of a variety of communities and identities.” Dr. Dessert said. “We did not get to this day by chance or luck. We earned it through grit, determination, and studying billing codes for hours in the library. Those experiences shaped our sense of purpose, our why.” 

Dr. Dessert concluded his speech by encouraging his fellow graduates, “Use that why to guide your future. Continue to shine bright for those behind you, beside you, and those you’ve yet to meet. In a world that’s always changing, visibility and advocacy matter in healthcare. Advocacy begins with action because serving others means showing up courageously and compassionately. I’d like to remind you that your voice matters. You are the future of healthcare, anchored in empathy, authenticity, and love.”

The ceremony also featured a special tribute to Samra Rafiq, a student in the Doctor of Clinical Psychology program who passed away during her time at Midwestern. Samra’s son, Dani, delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of his mother. “I want to say congratulations to all the graduates, I wish you all the absolute best in your future. I want to give a huge thank you to Midwestern and Dr. Chamberlain for reaching out, setting up a memorial, and allowing me to give a speech.” Dani said. “I ask everybody in this building for two things… I first ask that no matter how hard it gets, do not stop fighting. Do not stop chasing your dreams, and there is light at the end of the tunnel. Secondly, make sure you tell a loved one that you love and appreciate them.”

�鶹���� Glendale Campus Class of 2025 Graduates 
College of Health Sciences, Glendale

• Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.): 31 graduates
• Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (M.A.): 25 graduates
• Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Entry into Practice (D.N.A.P.): 33
• Post-Master’s Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice Completion (D.N.A.P.): 14
• Master of Science in Nursing / Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (M.S.N.): 3