CDS Convocation Ceremony 2025

The 2025 Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences (CDS) Convocation at Boston University marked a vibrant and heartfelt celebration of a milestone achievement for its graduates. Held on Saturday, May 17, the ceremony honored undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. students for their academic accomplishments, leadership, and contributions to the CDS community. The ceremony opened with warm and inspiring remarks from CDS Associate Provost Azer Bestavros.

The keynote address was delivered by Marjorie Hsu (ENG’86, Questrom’93), a global technology executive and proud two-time BU alumna. Her speech blended humor, inspiring advice, and a forward-looking vision for the role of computing and data science in shaping a better world. Drawing from her experience at companies like Verizon Wireless and SingTel, Hsu urged graduates to be open to opportunity, remain rooted in their values, and embrace the powerful potential of emerging technologies like generative AI. The ceremony also featured the presentation of CDS Awards for Academic Excellence, Service & Community, and Teaching, recognizing students who demonstrated outstanding contributions in and beyond the classroom. And Professor Wesley Wildman acknowledged the hard work of faculty and staff while encouraging graduates to carry forward the person-centered, interdisciplinary values at the heart of the CDS mission. He also introduced the Data Science Pledge—a guiding ethical commitment presented to graduates as they step into an evolving tech-driven world.

It was a day of pride, reflection, and optimism for the CDS Class of 2025 and the entire BU community. This site captures the excitement and events of the day, including speeches, videos, and photos, so that graduates, families, and friends can revisit and celebrate this important milestone.