Marietta College will celebrate the Class of 2026 during its 189th Commencement ceremony at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 9, in the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center. Doors will open at 11 a.m., and tickets are not required for entry.
The College’s traditional Commencement ceremony will recognize graduates from across academic programs as they mark the completion of their undergraduate studies and step forward with the knowledge and confidence to lead, serve and shape their future.
“As we celebrate the Class of 2026, we recognize not only their achievements, but the promise they bring into their next chapter,” said Marietta College President Kathleen Poorman Dougherty. “Our graduates join generations of Pioneers who have led with purpose, served with integrity, and made a difference in the world. We are confident that the Class of 2026 is prepared to carry that legacy forward and contribute in meaningful ways. We are proud to welcome them into The Long Blue Line as Marietta alumni.”
Marietta College alumna Megs J. Schreck Yunn ’06 will deliver the keynote address. A graduate of the College’s Communication and Media Studies program, Yunn is the founder and executive director of Beverly’s PGH, a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit dedicated to celebrating and supporting families through three core program areas: Birthdays, Babies and Basics. The organization provides essential goods, connects families to resources, and creates positive social-emotional experiences. Yunn has been nationally recognized for her leadership and impact, including being named a “Hometown Hero” on Good Morning America and an “Inspiring American” on NBC Nightly News.
Commencement will also feature student speakers selected through the 2026 Jewett Speech Competition. First-place winner Katie Taylor ’26, a Health Science major, and second-place winner Kanae Yoshida ’26, a Communication Studies major, will deliver original addresses representing the graduating class. The Marietta College Symphonic Band and Choir will provide musical performances throughout the ceremony.
Graduates and their families are invited to attend The Long Blue Line Brunch, a longstanding Commencement tradition, from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 9, at Fenton Court in the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center. The buffet-style reception will include remarks, student celebration, and a performance by the Floodstage ensemble.
Accessible parking will be available in designated campus lots, including the Mass Media parking lot and areas behind the McDonough Center and the Admission House. Shuttle service will run from parking areas to the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center entrance. Accessibility seating will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis behind the graduate seating area.
Marietta College continues its tradition of celebrating academic excellence and meaningful impact as the Class of 2026 joins The Long Blue Line, the College’s global network of Pioneer alumni. For those unable to attend in person, Commencement will be live-streamed. A viewing link will be available at www.marietta.edu/commencement. For questions regarding Commencement, contact the Records Office at records@marietta.edu or 740.376.4723.