Over 2,000 attendees filled Allegheny College’s Bicentennial Plaza, outside of historic Bentley Hall, for the Commencement ceremony of the Class of 2026, which featured 265 graduates in the nationally ranked institution’s 211th year.
Conservationist, researcher and author Dr. Margaret D. “CanopyMeg” Lowman gave the Commencement address and was this year’s recipient of a Doctorate of Humane Letters from the College.
“After so many years of climbing, I realize that most of my life lessons were inspired by trees that succeed against amazing odds,” Lowman said at Commencement. “Unlike animals, trees can’t run away from enemies. Unlike animals, trees can’t move to a better location during droughts or cold snaps. Instead, they create great strategies for success.”
“Like you, I also attended a small liberal arts college — [Williams College] in my case — where students learned to think and ask questions, not just memorize facts. The world desperately needs your talent to solve the many challenges our planet faces.”
According to College data from 2025, 98% of graduates are employed, in graduate school, or in service within 6 months of graduation. Members of the Class of 2026 have already signed on for roles at:
- Microsoft
- Erie Insurance
- Allegheny County Office of the Public Defender
- Acutec
- Park Place Technologies
- Life Science Connect
- Arch Insurance Group
- Trout Unlimited
- Maryland Department of Natural Resources
- Langan Engineering and Environmental Services
Others have committed to graduate programs at:
- Carnegie Mellon University
- The George Washington University
- University of Michigan
- University of Copenhagen
- University of Vermont
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
- and service in the Peace Corps
“Today, you become part of a proud tradition, joining generations of graduates who have benefited from Allegheny College’s 211-year legacy of excellence in liberal arts education,” said President Ron Cole in his address to the class. “Each of you are woven into the fabric of the past, the present and the limitless future of Allegheny College.”
“As you go forth to lead and build the world you want to see, I urge you to embrace the values of your Allegheny education, tapping into the bedrock foundation of learning” said President Cole in his final charge to the graduates. “Commit to being a lifelong learner, and approach every opportunity to build community and find solutions with both confidence and courage.”
