One thing was apparent to all those who gazed out at the 2025 graduating class at the University of West Los Angeles’s (UWLA) recent commencement ceremony – this was a standout group of students. The highly diverse graduates represented the best that UWLA had to offer, as noted in his remarks to all those gathered, standing room only at the Wiltern Theater auditorium, to fete the Class of 2025 graduates in Business and Law.

Dean Jay Frykberg, a UWLA alumnus himself and Dean of the School of Law, remarked that “34 percent of the law school’s graduates were born outside of the U.S., calling home to 12 different nations, encompassing both hemispheres of our planet and four of its seven continents.”

Dean Frykberg applauded the resilience demonstrated by each of this year’s graduates in their unique pathways to UWLA. Some are single parents, some immigrants, some children of immigrants, but all are determined to succeed at whatever life may bring them. “Not all will choose to practice law, but will instead join the ranks of other law students who have leveraged their legal education outside the courtroom, like Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and the majority of U.S. presidents,” explained Dean Frykberg.

The Voice of the Leaders – Graduating Class Leaders

Joining President Robert W. Brown, Dean Frykberg, and Dean Talon Brown (School of Business) at the 2025 graduation podium were four graduates who addressed their classmates, professors, and family members in attendance.

Denise Moleah, a Business School graduate, shared her story of returning to the classroom after a 30-year break, during which she got married, raised a daughter, launched several businesses, and worked across various industries, including private education, real estate, food service, and technology. She credits UWLA with making her return to the classroom possible. “Online classes allowed me to work, stay mobile, and care for my mother in South Carolina when she needed me the most, all while working on my degree,” stated Denise. “I am grateful to UWLA. It isn't just a school. It's a place of transformation. It meets you where you are and walks with you toward your goals.”

Another Business School graduate, Nicholas Gaines, shared his pride with classmates over what they had collectively accomplished. “It is important to point out that we have proven ourselves to be one of the most resilient classes in UWLA history,” said Nicholas. “We have all fought our battles, both academically and personally, having made it to this moment. Our journey has just begun, and the world is waiting for us to make our mark. I do not doubt that each of us has the power to shape a brighter tomorrow.”

Also gracing the graduation stage was class Valedictorian, Gina Coconato-Hering, who received her Juris Doctor. Gina reflected on four years ago, when she was stuck waiting tables in the hospitality industry, which had been turned upside down by the COVID pandemic. With all the uncertainty that followed, she took the opportunity to enroll in law school. At first, she was uncertain about this decision, as friends warned her that law school is incredibly cutthroat. “But on day one of being at UWLA, it was clear that this environment was different,” explained Gina. “UWLA is a school unlike any other because of the community that exists within its walls. After this experience, I firmly believe that this class contains change makers, trailblazers, and advocates dedicated to helping those in need. So let us not just be changed forever, let us also be changed for good.”

Lianna Margaryan was the Salutatorian speaker, having also earned her Juris Doctor. She praised her classmates and professors for their support throughout her educational journey. “Without you guys, I wouldn't be standing here today,” concluded Lianna. “I thank you all for always standing beside me, listening to me, advising me, and supporting me. You're more than just friends; you're family. Our educational journey has come to an end, and now a new chapter awaits us all.”

Congratulations to the entire UWLA Class of 2025 on your graduation. The future looks brighter as a result!