May 2025 — Chicago Area, IL
A celebration of perseverance, growth, and the future of medicine.
2025
Graduating Class
71
Graduates
26+
Years of Excellence
84
Residency Placements
Keynote Addresses
President, University of North Florida
The seventh president of the University of North Florida, appointed in August 2022, Dr. Limayem is an energetic, student-focused leader whose career has centered on opening doors and creating opportunities for students. He previously served for a decade as the Lynn Pippenger Dean of the Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida.
Under his leadership, the college posted strong graduate job-placement rates, lifted freshman retention to 95%, and raised more than $126 million in private donations. He has been named an Ultimate CEO by the Jacksonville Business Journal and recognized among Florida's 500 most influential executives.
$126M+
Funds Raised
95%
Freshman Retention
Associate Professor of Biology, University of North Florida
Associate Professor of Biology at the University of North Florida and a 2024 Rising Star of the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida, Dr. Limayem is recognized for her groundbreaking, patented work in nanotherapeutics to combat drug-resistant bacteria, alongside impactful research in renewable resources and public-health safety.
Deeply committed to ethical innovation and student mentorship, her work spans safe biomedical solutions, water safety, and microbiome-based advances in precision medicine — shaping the future of healthcare and environmental sustainability.
2024
ASEMFL Rising Star
Patented
Nanotherapeutics
The Evening
Hosted by Master of Ceremonies Mohammad Mirza, the evening opened with a formal academic procession as faculty and the Class of 2025 entered in full regalia, followed by a live performance of the National Anthem by Timothy James Hofstad and Queentatiii.
Provost and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Jose Ramirez welcomed graduates and families, marking a milestone year in which SJSM consolidated its two campuses into one and prepared to launch a new system-based curriculum.
The ceremony paused to honor founder Dr. Guha, whose journey from Kolkata to the University of Copenhagen led to the founding of SJSM in 1999 — built on the conviction that rigorous medical training should remain affordable and within reach.
Alumna Dr. Shahrzad Torabi (SJSM '21), now an OB/GYN chief resident, and student speaker Dr. Rahul Rikhy, a former physical therapist headed to Family Medicine at Sinai Chicago, delivered heartfelt reflections on resilience, purpose, and the meaning of "we are SJSM."
One by one, each graduate crossed the stage to receive their Doctor of Medicine degree — the culmination of years of relentless study, clinical training, and personal sacrifice.
Led by Dr. Devang Gujarathi, Dean of Clinical Sciences, the graduates recited the Hippocratic Oath — the symbolic transition from medical student to physician, and a commitment each carries for life.
Photo Gallery
Relive the best moments from the Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony.
Full Ceremony
Couldn't make it in person? Relive every moment of the Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony.
What Comes Next
SJSM graduates go on to residencies across the United States and Canada, building remarkable careers in medicine.
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