At the Doctor of Philosophy Hooding and Graduation Ceremony on Thursday, Northeastern conferred degrees upon doctoral candidates in fields ranging from interdisciplinary engineering and pharmaceutical sciences to psychology, computer science, and economics.

The 187 graduates receiving doctorates were the most ever at Northeastern in one year.

The hooding ceremony, which was held at Cabot Center, represents the culmination of years of scholarly study and work, and university leaders lauded the graduates for their grit, determination, and achievements. The students’ faculty advisors placed the academic hoods on them as they were called to the stage, an acknowledgement of the “profound intellectual journey that graduates and advisors traveled together,” said James C. Bean, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs.

Friends and family cheered, waved, and snapped photos as the graduates received their diplomas. Bean congratulated the graduates, adding, “The journey is transformative for both the student and advisor, and the bonds created will last for the rest of their lives.”

Laura Lewis, Cabot Professor of Chemical Engineering, delivered the faculty address.

Lewis—whose research interests focus on new types of magnetic materials that support advanced information, consumer, military, and energy technologies—noted that the graduates’ doctoral studies at Northeastern have dovetailed with the university’s increasing momentum as well as its investments and growth in research in recent years. “Not only have you all been included in this remarkable change,” she said, “you are also in large part responsible for it.”

In closing, Lewis urged graduates to maintain the connections they’ve made at Northeastern and continue learning, working hard, and seeking excellence. “That advice,” she said, “will take you far.”

After the degrees were conferred, Bean offered final remarks. “As you leave here today, you will carry the Northeastern name,” he said. “It is a name that will serve you well. We are very proud of your accomplishments, and we are proud that you will be a member of the Northeastern family throughout this intellectual journey. Go forth, do great things, stay in touch, come back often.”