2020 Virtual Commencement
Maj. Gen. (Dr.) Josef F. Schmid III
At the School of Health Professions, Graduation Day not only marks the beginning of a new chapter for hundreds of hardworking students, it also delivers a glimpse into MD Anderson’s future workforce. That is why this milestone achievement is so important to both our graduates and MD Anderson.
Although the COVID-19 endemic is preventing us from gathering for Commencement, the School of Health Professions is committed to celebrating this momentous occasion with the Class of 2020.
In lieu of an in-person graduation ceremony, the School of Health Professions is hosting a virtual Commencement on Aug. 7.
The online ceremony will feature messages from MD Anderson and the School of Health Professions’ leadership, as well as a Commencement speech from Major General Dr. Josef Schmid, a NASA flight surgeon and decorated Major General in the U.S. Air Force Reserves. Each student will also be recognized with a personal slide and will have his or her name read aloud.
We are so proud of our 2020 graduates and look forward to celebrating them virtually.
Information on Virtual Commencement
August 7, 2020
SHP’s virtual commencement will provide a commemorative occasion for graduates that will include an opportunity to have their name and accomplishments professionally read, as well as a photo and personal message of thanks to families and faculty displayed. The virtual commencement will also include custom video messages from university and community leaders specifically for the Class of 2020.
Virtual Commencement
Friday, Aug. 7 at 5:30 p.m.
Facebook Frames
Share and highlight your status as a graduate of SHP. Three SHP Facebook frames have been created for your use.
How to find the Facebook frame
- Go to your profile on the Facebook app on your mobile device.
- Tap “edit” on your profile.
- Tap “add frame”.
- Search using any of the key words: SHP, MD Anderson, School of Health Professions.
Students will have three frames to select from:
MDA SHP 2020 Grad Opt 1
MDA SHP 2020 Grad Opt 2
MDA SHP 2020 Grad Opt 3
Frames will be available on Facebook Aug. 1 – Dec. 31, 2020
2020 Outstanding Master's Program Graduates

Catherine Evans - Radiologic Sciences: There is no substitute for integrity or a strong work ethic; be steadfast in your commitment to virtue.

Mira Gandhi - Diagnostic Genetics & Genomics: The program provided me with a fantastic opportunity to showcase my courage and enthusiasm for learning.

Nejla Ozirmak Lermi - Diagnostic Genetics & Genomics: Self-motivation is a crucial skill for success.

Bailee Proctor - Radiologic Sciences: Don't stop until you're proud. (anon.)
2020 Outstanding Laboratory Sciences Graduates

Hanh Dao - Cytogenetic Technology: I love Cytogenetics, I love what I do, it is the way I can do great work.

Briana Harper - Clinical Laboratory Science: My program empowered me to embody leadership and humility.

Khantran Levu - Molecular Genetic Technology: Stay diligent on achieving your goals and celebrate everything life has to offer.
2020 Outstanding Radiologic Sciences Graduates

Ashley Ducote - Radiation Therapy: The culture of positivity and hope that radiates throughout MD Anderson is tangible and infectious.

Kaylan Lawson - Medical Dosimetry: Cannot wait to begin a career in the ever-evolving Dosimetry profession.

Huong Phan - Diagnostic Imaging, MRI: My desire to help others sincerely drives me to accomplish this achievement.

Laura Romo - Diagnostic Medical Sonography: Dedication, skills and motivation were necessary to succeed in the program.

Kathryn Trantham - Diagnostic Imaging Management: SHP has allowed me to advance my career exponentially while working full-time.

Robert DeForde - Health Care DDA: MD Anderson is the intersection of higher education and a world-class medical institution.
Student Information
School of Health Professions virtual commencement will be produced by Marching Order, a company that specializes in online celebrations. The ceremonies will include prerecorded video messages from university leadership and our commencement speaker Major General Dr. Josef Schmid NASA flight surgeon, specifically for the Class of 2020, as well as a reading of graduates’ names.
Commencement Schedule
Mark your calendar for the virtual commencement which will be held on August 7, 2020 at 5:30 p.m.
At that time, visit the Marching Order website for full access to the entire ceremony including
- Pre‐recorded video messages from MD Anderson Leaders and our 2020 commencement speaker, which you can click on individually to view.
- Slideshow of all graduates in alphabetic order.
- The opportunity to view slides by program, degree and/or individuals.
Once the virtual commencement website launches, you may access it immediately or at any time in the future. Additionally, you will be able to download and share your individual entry through social media.
Guest Information
Welcome, and congratulations on your graduate's remarkable achievement of earning a college degree! Commencement is not only a major event in a graduate's life but also a celebration and acknowledgement of you—friends and family—who have provided guidance, care and support to the new graduate. We hope the information on this website will help you have the most enjoyable experience possible on this special day.
Be sure to mark your calendar August 7, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. for the virtual commencement for your graduate. If you are unable to watch the commencement at its original broadcast time, you will be able to access a recording afterward.