BRIGHTON, N.Y. — Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship on Friday held a graduation ceremony for its inaugural class two years after opening its doors, calling it a “significant milestone.”

The students completed the institute’s professional certificate in business and entrepreneurship — described as an “accelerated, non-traditional” business-education program designed to “equip them with practical business skills and real-world experience.”

About 250 people, including students, their families, staff, faculty, and business partners attended the ceremony.

The event included reflections from graduating students; remarks from Ian Mortimer, president of the Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship and its founder Tom Golisano; and a commencement address delivered by Special Olympics Chairman Tim Shriver.

Students received a certificate as part of a personalized recognition moment on stage, accompanied by a short video profile.

Instead of a traditional cap and gown, each student also received a custom Golisano Institute blazer designed by clothier Adrian Jules, who is based in Rochester. The inside label bears Tom Golisano’s name and motto, “Built not Born,” a nod to his belief in the lasting power of a first impression, the Institute said.

“The transformation we have seen in this first cohort of students over the past two years is remarkable,” Mortimer contended in the announcement. “They have developed not only the skills employers are looking for, but also the confidence and discipline that drive long-term success. Their achievements affirm everything we set out to do—help students bridge the gap between potential and opportunity through a business education built on real expectations and applied learning.”