By Currents News
Graduation day at St. John’s University became an emotional tribute for one doctoral graduate and her family.
As Alexa Mendez crossed the stage to receive her doctorate in pharmacology, dozens of members of the FDNY were waiting with a surprise she never expected.
After losing her father, FDNY Lieutenant Redwin Mendez, in a tragic motorcycle accident in 2022, Alexa stepped away from her demanding program before returning to finish what she started.
Now, surrounded by the firefighters and EMS members who became like family, she’s honoring her father’s legacy while preparing for her next chapter.