Announcing Micah Mizushima as 2026 Commencement Student Speaker

Please join us in congratulating Micah Mizushima, named the 2026 Commencement Student Speaker, who will address graduates at the ceremony on Friday, June 5 at the Portland Convention Center. A dedicated public health leader with a passion for culturally responsive nutrition and community wellbeing, Micah exemplifies the spirit and impact of the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health.

Micah graduated with his Bachelor’s degree in Global Resource Systems from the University of British Columbia, where he specialized in global health and nutrition in the Americas. His passion for food and health systems led him to pursue his Master’s in Public Health in Health Promotion at the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health. At the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health, Micah had the opportunity to work as a public health intern at Ikoi no Kai, a Japanese community lunch program for older adults in the Portland area. At Ikoi no Kai, Micah worked to expand community partnerships and programming, while designing a survey to better understand community needs.

Growing up in Portland as a multiracial Mexican and Japanese American, Micah developed a deep appreciation for the role that culturally specific food played in shaping his own cultural identity and sense of well-being. After his work with Ikoi no Kai, Micah is passionate about designing culturally responsive nutrition initiatives that strengthen community networks and celebrate cultural identity.

We celebrate Micah in not only his academic achievements but also his commitment to improving community health through culturally responsive approaches. His work reflects the values of the School of Public Health and the impact our graduates have in strengthening communities. We look forward to hearing Micah’s perspective as he addresses the Class of 2026 and wish him continued success in his public health journey. Congratulations, Micah!