Contact Information:
Carlow University
John Cardone, VP of Marketing and Communications
412-578-6100
jvcardone@carlow.edu
Release Date: May 9, 2025
PITTSBURGH, PA — On Saturday, May 10, Carlow University will celebrate its 95th Commencement. A total of 793 students were invited to the ceremony this year—the largest graduating class in Carlow’s nearly century-long history. The ceremony will take place at 11:00 a.m. at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
The year’s commencement marks a milestone for Carlow—a university founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1929 and known for empowering students to lead with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to service. This year’s graduates reflect the mission-driven community Carlow is proud to serve, representing a broad range of academic disciplines and professional pathways.
Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis will deliver the keynote address. Davis, the first Black lieutenant governor in the Commonwealth’s history and the youngest currently serving in the nation, has become a trailblazer for community transformation. A native of McKeesport, he brings to Carlow’s graduates a message of resilience and purpose that aligns deeply with the University’s values.
“Lieutenant Governor Davis is a powerful example of leadership that is both grounded and forward-looking,” said Dr. Kathy W. Humphrey, President of Carlow University. “His story resonates deeply with our students, many of whom come from Western Pennsylvania and are preparing to step into meaningful roles in their communities and professions. We are honored to welcome him to Carlow for this milestone moment.”
The Class of 2025 will enter the workforce at a time when the Pittsburgh region—and the nation—needs skilled, ethical leaders more than ever. Carlow graduates are uniquely prepared to meet that need. From healthcare and education to business, social work, and beyond, they are filling essential roles across Western Pennsylvania and driving positive change in their communities. Carlow continues to serve as a key pipeline for regional talent, with a commitment to workforce development rooted in compassion, excellence, and purpose.
The ceremony will also include the presentation of awards and honors, the conferral of degrees, and remarks from student leaders who exemplify Carlow’s mission of mercy, leadership, and lifelong learning.
Family, friends, and supporters are invited to attend or view the livestream. Additional information, including logistics, accessibility, and ticketing details, can be found at carlow.edu/commencement or by reviewing the Commencement Arrival Information PDF.
Find Commencement highlights and coverage on social media (@carlowuniversity).
About Carlow University
Carlow is a private, co-educational, Catholic university located at the hub of Pittsburgh’s most cutting-edge industries. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1929, Carlow’s curricula and partnerships reflect its strong commitment to forward-thinking leadership and impactful service to the community.
At Carlow University, we strive to create an experience that is not only life-changing, but world-changing. Carlow graduates are prepared to be pioneers in workforce development, healthcare, education, business, the arts, and more. They are part of a nearly one-hundred-year tradition of ethical leaders with the empathy and spirit to create meaningful societal change. Rooted in unity and led by compassion, we are redefining what a leader looks like —and it looks like a Carlow graduate.