Journalism and theater double-major Frederick “Freddie” Alvarez of the Bronx was selected as the student speaker at St. Bonaventure University’s December Recognition Ceremony Saturday, Dec. 13.

The ceremony, recognizing those who will complete their undergraduate and graduate degree requirements this semester, begins at 6 p.m. in the University Chapel in Doyle Hall.

Alvarez is a student in the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), which provides access to continuing education for promising students with special academic and financial needs. The program is funded through the New York State Department of Education and St. Bonaventure.

As a high school student, Alvarez knew he wanted to enter a journalism program, and St. Bonaventure “was one place that I felt had exactly what I wanted to study. … The hands-on experience really is what caught my attention.”

Alvarez dove right into that hands-on experience, exploring a number of student media organizations, including The Bona Venture, The Buzz and SBU-TV Sports. He has set his career sights on television production. 

“Eventually I want to work my way up the chain and get into the film industry and either produce or direct. I know that it takes a lot of years to get up to that level, which is why I don’t want to waste any time and at least get my foot in the door with any position within television. I’m open to any (geographic) market and eventually I want to be in a position where I can help future SBU grads get into the media world and work force,” said Alvarez.

A resident assistant for three years, he worked with the theater program closely before becoming a theater major his sophomore year. He has also volunteered with the campus Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT) and the Bona Buddies program and is a member of the Chi Alpha Epsilon honor society. 

During his student address Saturday, Alvarez plans to talk about failure, “and how that ‘F’ word frightened me.” He’ll share how, through the years, it became his friend and how he accepts it — with a twist.

Also at the recognition ceremony, Dr. Richard Lee, assistant professor of Journalism & Mass Communication and director of the Integrated Marketing Communications Program, will give the faculty address.

University President Sr. Margaret Carney, O.S.F., S.T.D., will welcome the graduates and their families. Dr. Michael Fischer, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, will serve as master of ceremonies. 

Dr. Peggy Y. Burke, associate provost and dean of graduate studies, will present the graduate students. Dr. Joseph Zimmer, dean of the School of Education, will present the undergraduate students.

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About the University: The nation’s first Franciscan university, St. Bonaventure University cultivates graduates who are confident and creative communicators, collaborative leaders and team members, and innovative problem solvers who are respectful of themselves, others, and the diverse world around them. We are establishing pathways to internships, graduate schools and careers in the context of our renowned liberal arts tradition. Our students are becoming extraordinary.