Celebrating Our Graduates: Honoring the Class of 2026 at the OHSU Commencement & Hooding Ceremony

At the heart of every academic journey lies a dedication to growth, a commitment to knowledge and practice, and an enduring purpose to create meaningful change in the world. This week, we are beaming with great pride and joy as we prepare to honor the dedication, resilience, and aspiration that will shape the future of public health at commencement on Friday, June 6, 2026, at the Oregon Convention Center.

Commencement is more than a celebration; it is a powerful reminder of the transformative role education plays in building healthier, more equitable communities. Each graduate has brought their unique talents to our shared mission of health equity. Now, they stand on the precipice of even greater opportunities to advance health, inspire change, and uplift lives around the globe.

We are incredibly eager to hear from our selected student leaders who embody the spirit, determination, and vision we foster as a school. This year, Micah Mizushima will take the stage as our master’s student speaker, alongside Ma’Adjoa Manu, who has been selected as this year’s doctoral student speaker. Their voices will guide and inspire us all as they share their experiences, lessons learned, and hopes for the future. Their commitment to public health excellence will undoubtedly motivate our community in profound and lasting ways.

Equally exciting is the announcement of this year’s Gonfalonier—our school flag bearer, Emma Lou Leary. This exceptional student has been chosen to lead our graduates into the ceremony hall, an honor that speaks volumes about their dedication and service to both our school and the broader community. We are proud to celebrate the integrity and passion they bring to our shared mission of improving the quality of life for all.

This year’s commencement also offers a chance to spotlight the efforts of our incredible faculty, led by this year’s Faculty Marshal, Dr. Betty Izumi. This vital role centers on guiding our graduates through the ceremony and serves as a testament to the transformative power of faculty teaching rooted in inclusivity, mentorship, and vision.

As a school, we recognize that commencement is not an end but a beginning—the next chapter in a journey of service and discovery. To our graduates, student speakers, flag bearer, and Faculty Marshal: you represent the hope, commitment, and courage needed to shape the future of public health.

We invite our entire community—students, faculty, staff, families, and friends—to share in the celebration. To the graduating class of 2026, we look forward to celebrating your achievement, hearing your voices, and watching you continue to transform communities through knowledge, compassion, and action! Your futures are bright, and the work you do in service of public health will bring meaningful change to Oregon and beyond.