ABINGTON, Pa. — More than 450 Penn State Abington graduates crossed the stage at the historic Keswick Theatre on May 8 as their loved ones, faculty and staff gathered to celebrate. After the ceremonies, the excitement spilled onto the sidewalks and streets of Glenside, where businesses decorated windows and set up inflatable lions for an unofficial block party.
Inside the nearly century-old theater, the new alumni — who completed their coursework in the summer and fall 2025 and spring 2026 —marked the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance that transformed their lives and futures. First generation graduates drew some of the loudest and longest applause as they stood to be recognized.
Chancellor Gary Liguori reminded graduates that the day represented both an ending and a beginning.
“When you walk out of here today, you’ll carry more than a degree with you — you’ll carry the Abington Experience, our signature program that takes students from campus to career,” he said. “Internships, travel, research and leadership are just one part of what distinguishes you as a Penn State Abington graduate. ... Use what you’ve learned to move forward with purpose, to contribute and to make a difference in ways that matter to you, your families, your communities and the world."
Two student speakers, Lauren Berg and Mark Jachura, reflected on the defining moments of their time at Abington and how it prepared them for the future.
Jachura highlighted Joseph Oakes, associate teaching professor of computer science and information technology, and one of the many mentors students discover at Abington.
“He was patient, taught me new skills and treated me as a professional colleague," he said. "The beginnings of my student and professional growth all started at this moment. I would not be in the position I am today without him."
Berg’s poetic remarks on transformation resonated since she had initially planned to study at Abington for two years and complete her degree at University Park. Instead, the impact of her Abington Experience led her to stay and graduate here.
“Abington had something that surprised me. It gave me the chance to be seen. At a smaller campus, you don’t get the option to blend into the background — and that ended up being the best thing for me," she said. "Professors knew my name. They pushed me, encouraged me and opened doors I didn’t even know existed."