PITTSBURGH, PA — On Saturday, May 9, Carlow University will celebrate its 96th Commencement. For the second year in a row, the ceremony will take place at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, a fitting venue for the largest class in the University’s nearly century-long history.
This year’s commencement marks several milestones 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. Spring 2026 marks the graduation of Carlow’s very first Doctor of Physical Therapy cohort, and their 78th School of Nursing cohort. Whether studying in new, cutting-edge programs or widely respected legacy disciplines, this year’s graduates reflect the mission-driven community Carlow is proud to serve, representing a broad range of academic disciplines and professional pathways.
Sister Sheila Carney, RSM, Carlow’s Special Assistant to the President for Mercy Heritage & Service, will deliver the keynote address. A proud alumna (class of 1967), Sister Sheila has been instrumental in advancing Mercy identity, deepening mission integration, and expanding community-engaged initiatives across campus. As a Sister of Mercy for 58 years, she has served the Church and her community in a wide range of leadership, educational, and ministerial roles at the local, regional, national, and international levels.
“Sister Sheila embodies the very best of us,” said Carlow President Kathy Humphrey, PhD. “Her impact on Carlow is both profound and deeply personal. As a trusted member of our leadership community, she has helped define what it means to live our mission each day. As our graduates prepare to take the next step, they will hear from someone who has spent her life putting mercy into action.”
The ceremony will also include presentations of awards and honors, the conferral of degrees, and remarks from student leaders who exemplify Carlow’s mission of mercy, leadership, and lifelong learning. Christian Rotundo, winner of this year’s Joseph G. Smith award for undergraduate academic achievement, will speak, as will Graduate Student Excellence awardee Yousef Tamimi.
The Class of 2026 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.
Family, friends, and supporters not already planning to attend are encouraged to view the livestream. Information, including logistics, accessibility, and streaming details can be found at carlow.edu/commencement.
Find Commencement highlights and coverage this Saturday on Carlow’s social media channels (@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.
Contact
Carlow University
John Cardone, VP of Marketing and Communications
412-578-6100
jvcardone@carlow.edu