President’s Impact Report

Dear friends, partners,
and supporters of Carlow University,

During the 2024–25 academic year, Carlow reached a series of meaningful milestones. We celebrated the largest graduating class in our history, and we were reaffirmed for accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. These moments matter, not just because they reflect institutional strength, but because they affirm the enduring values that shape who we are.

Carlow did not shift with the wind. We did not change our message or our mission in response to the times. Instead, we stood firm. In a year when many in higher education were asked to explain who they are and what they believe, Carlow simply kept showing up with mercy and compassion. We continued to serve our students and our region with empathy and resolve, like we’ve always done.

As I reflect on all we accomplished together, I feel deep pride in the people who bring this university to life. I saw that pride in the faces of our graduates this spring. I saw it in our faculty and staff as we launched new programs, grew enrollment, and expanded our impact. And I see it every day among our students who have chosen Carlow as their place. They have found a community where their gifts are recognized, and their aspirations are nurtured.

The stories you’ll find in this report are more than achievements. They are evidence of what happens when a university stays true to its founding values. Carlow remains devoted to a more just and merciful world, and to every student who walks through our doors with the dream of making a difference.

Thank you for believing in this mission and for walking with us on the journey.

Reaffirmed for Accreditation by Middle States Commission on Higher Education

PITTSBURGH, PA – Carlow University has been officially re-accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) as of June 26, 2025, reaffirming Carlow’s continued commitment to educational excellence, integrity, and transformative student outcomes. This new accreditation cycle will be in effect through 2033.

The announcement follows a comprehensive multi-year self-study and a peer evaluator team site visit in April 2025. The re-accreditation ensures Carlow maintains full compliance with MSCHE’s quality standards, which evaluate institutions across all areas of operation.

“Re-accreditation is a tremendous accomplishment, and I am deeply proud of the entire Carlow community,” said Dr. Kathy W. Humphrey, President of Carlow University. “This moment affirms that we are living our mission—serving students with excellence, staying true to our Mercy values, and working together to ensure that every learner has the opportunity to grow, lead, and make an impact.”

Commencement 2025: Celebrating a Milestone Weekend

The spirit of pride was everywhere during Carlow University’s 95th Commencement weekend. The 2025 celebration marked a historic milestone: Carlow’s largest graduating class to date.

From the moving tributes and student reflections at Friday’s Honors Convocation to the cheers, tears, and tassel turns of Saturday’s Commencement, held for the first time at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh, the weekend honored the resilience, purpose, and community that define the Carlow experience.

Student voices brought the ceremony to life.

“This degree became a symbol of restoration—a testament that healing is possible not only for those we serve, but also for ourselves.” - Graduate student speaker Maha K. Alahmad, a Syrian immigrant and Carlow counseling graduate.

“It always begins like that,” she said. “Something small but meaningful—just enough to inspire the world around it.” - Undergraduate speaker Isabelle Finnegan reflected on founding Grace’s Garden, a campus initiative inspired by her grandmother’s love of growing.

Keynote speaker and honorary doctorate recipient Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis echoed that call. Raised in McKeesport and committed to public service from a young age, Davis reflected on the importance of creating ladders of opportunity for others—and encouraged graduates to do the same.

Carlow’s mission to educate ethical, service-driven leaders was very much on display. These graduates are stepping into critical roles across the region in healthcare, education, counseling, business, and beyond.

“You have accomplished something special,” Dr. Humphrey said. “But our greatest hope is that you will take this education, inspired by Mercy values, and play a significant role in your communities.”