Congrats Grads!

Seattle University’s commencement ceremonies for undergraduate and graduate students of the Class of 2026 was a high-spirited, celebratory affair at Climate Pledge Arena.

Families, friends and loved ones gathered to cheer on their graduates and celebrate this big day. Keynote speakers included Robert Paylor, who spoke at the undergraduate ceremony, and Dr. Thomas Lynch Jr., who gave remarks at the graduate ceremony.

In his remarks Paylor spoke of his connection to Seattle—his father is from here—and connection to SU as his grandmother is an alum. He also credited his Jesuit education with his personal formation.

“The foundation I got from (a Jesuit education) is the bedrock of who I am today.”

During the ceremony the crowd also heard remarks from graduating Student Body President Diego Gonzalez, who spoke of the value in pushing to make your dreams a reality even when it gets tough.

“Seattle University has taught me that I don’t have to dream for a better place,” he said. “I can make it.”

Graduate commencement speaker Dr. Thomas Lynch, who is the president and director of the Fred Hutch Cancer Center, said the graduates are all leaders and that he has great faith that they will do good in the world.

“I’m convinced that the talent of those in this room is going to find solutions to our world’s problems.

Graduate student speaker Erin Kwan said to be fearless and open to seizing opportunities even if fearful.

“Do the hard things for the sake of bettering yourself and the world,” Kwan said.

Our Graduating Class
Many notable graduates walked across the stage at Climate Pledge Arena, set to go out into the world and make a difference. The Newsroom showcased some of these remarkable graduates in our spotlight series:

Graduate Spotlight: Kiera Tanaputra
From blueberries to the brain, biochemistry major taps into passion for research at Seattle University.

Graduate Spotlight: Zoe Adler
ROTC leader and nursing graduate is ready for what's next.

Graduate Spotlight: Preman Rami
Albers marketing graduate reflects on internships, research and mentoring that shaped SU experience.

Graduate Spotlight: Exita Lealofi, MA
From American Samoa to Tacoma, an educational journey shaped by service, culture and collective care.

Graduate Spotlight: Saxton Van Dalsen
U.S. Coast Guard veteran follows passion for technology at SU, securing full-time position at Amazon.

Graduate Spotlight: Bjorn Jensen
After years of military service, charting a new course through creative writing.

Graduate Spotlight: Naho Umitani
Truman Scholar finds her voice and passion in public service, policy and singing opera.

Graduate Spotlight: Diego Gonzalez
First-generation student and Costco Scholar reflects on experience as Student Body President and future career as a prosecutor.

Graduate Spotlight: Isaiah Khan, MFA
A creative life in the arts that goes beyond the canvas or a sketch to include leadership and community building.

Graduate Spotlight: Ellie Bowen-Keyes
Inspired by the urgent need for health care professionals during the pandemic, nursing graduate pursues career as flight nurse for rural communities.