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 Selections
Keynote Speaker: David Kaganovsky
David Kaganovsky '95 is a technology and product leader focused on building AI-enabled brand platforms at global scale. He is currently Global Head of Product, Brand at WPP, where he leads the vision and roadmap for Brand Intelligence within the WPP Open ecosystem.
In this role, David is driving the shift from static brand guidelines to living, machine-readable systems that are transforming brand rules, assets, and governance into AI-ready platforms that power marketing creation, validation, and activation. His work sits at the intersection of brand strategy, product architecture, and applied AI, helping global brands scale creativity while protecting brand integrity and long-term equity.
Previously, David served as Global Chief Technology Officer at Landor, where he helped establish the foundations of Intelligent Brand Systems and embedded AI into the way brands are built and managed.
Earlier in his career, David held senior technology leadership roles at Wavemaker (GroupM), leading large-scale post-merger integration and global automation programs, and at GO Subscription, where he built and scaled a direct-to-consumer automotive platform. He began his career in consulting roles at PwC and EY, working with global media, entertainment, and enterprise clients on technology strategy and transformation.
David is deeply committed to education and mentorship, serving in advisory roles at Drexel University and Temple University.
David lives outside Philadelphia with his wife, Leanne, whom he met as a student at Drexel University. They have four children, two currently studying at the University of Pittsburgh and two Pitt graduates now continuing their postgraduate studies at Drexel.
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: