Drexel CCI Celebrates the Class of 2026
The Drexel University College of Computing & Informatics Commencement Ceremony celebrating the Class of 2026 is 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 10 at the Highmark Mann center (5201 Parkside Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131).
Please refer to Drexel’s commencement website as your primary resource for 2026 commencement festivities and important deadlines before the ceremony.
A Message from the Interim Dean to the Class of 2026
On behalf of the entire CCI community, I extend my warmest congratulations to our remarkable Class of 2026!
Throughout your time at CCI, you have immersed yourselves in the ideas, tools, and practices that define the future of technology. You’ve developed the expertise needed not only to navigate a rapidly evolving digital landscape, but to shape it—with purpose, integrity, and impact. The world is entering a new era defined by intelligent systems, data-driven innovation, and unprecedented connectivity, and you are ready to meet that moment with confidence and skill.
Your curiosity, ingenuity, and determination have enriched our college in countless ways. You have inspired your peers, collaborated with faculty and staff, and contributed to a community that values creativity, inclusivity, and innovation. The mark you leave on CCI is unmistakable—and deeply appreciated.
Today, we celebrate everything you have achieved. Tomorrow, we look forward to the breakthroughs, discoveries, and leadership you will bring to the global community. Wherever your path leads, know that you carry with you the strength of your experiences, the support of the CCI network, and the promise of a future you are more than ready to create.
Go boldly—and keep shining. The world needs your brilliance now more than ever.
Congratulations, Forever Dragons!
Ali Shokoufandeh, PhD
Interim Dean and Distinguished University Professor
2026 Speaker Selection
Keynote Speaker: Chris Cera
Chris Cera, computer science BS '97 and MS '04, is the CEO of Arcweb Technologies (a certified B Corp), where they partner with growth leaders and innovators to design and build custom digital products through proven, high-performing, crossfunctional teams. Under his leadership, Arcweb has received numerous accolades for its work, including recognition from Fast Company (World Changing Ideas, Innovation by Design), the MobileWebAwards (Best Mobile Application), the Davey Awards (Mobile Gold, Health Services Gold, Best Visual Appeal Silver) and the Digital Health Awards (Bronze).
Prior to Arcweb Technologies, Chris served as CTO and co-founder of Vuzit, a cloud document-management software company that was acquired by Accusoft. Earlier in his career, he worked as a software developer for several companies, including GSK, where he began their professional journey in cheminformatics, building neural networks for computational drug discovery.
Chris is also a co-founder of Philly Startup Leaders, one of Philadelphia’s largest nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs. He has co-authored three patents and numerous peer-reviewed publications and holds BS and MS degrees in Computer Science from Drexel University.
Student Speaker: Mackenzie Ligon
Mackenzie Ligon is a computer science student with a passion for graphics, web development and game development. Originally from Southington, Connecticut, she has gained valuable professional experience as an Associate Applications Engineer at Medidata Solutions through Drexel’s co-op program. Following graduation, Mackenzie plans to continue her academic journey by pursuing a master’s degree in computer science through an accelerated BS/MS program.
Drexel Returns to Citizens Bank Park for a University-wide Celebration
The University is proud to host a University-wide Commencement ceremony on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Join the Celebration on Social Media
Whether you're a member of the 2026 graduating class or simply looking for a way to recognize your loved one's accomplishments, we encourage you to share your commencement memories on social media with us by using the hashtags #drexelccigrads and #foreverdragons. Make sure to follow Drexel CCI on social media at the links below: