The Future of Public Health is Bright: Congrats Class of 2026
Posted on
June 23, 2026
By Gina Lovasi, PhD, MPH, the Dana and David Dornsife Dean and Professor of Epidemiology at Drexel University's Dornsife School of Public Health

In this month’s Dean’s Letter, I am delighted to once again celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Dornsife School of Public Health Class of 2026. On June 11, we gathered at the Academy of Music to honor our graduates during this year’s Commencement ceremony.
Over the course of their studies at Dornsife, these students demonstrated exceptional perseverance, commitment, and a steadfast dedication to promoting health equity and social justice.
As they embark on the next chapter of their journeys, they do so equipped with the expertise, practical experience, and determination needed to address some of today’s most pressing public health issues. Whether pursuing advanced degrees or entering the workforce, they carry with them a strong foundation in evidence-based practice and a passion for serving communities. We are excited to follow their future accomplishments and the positive impact they will undoubtedly make.
We invite you to relive the celebration by checking out our photo album and/or watching the Commencement ceremony, featuring memorable moments, proud families, and enthusiastic supporters.
The ceremony also includes inspiring addresses from:
- Keynote: Dr. Alonzo L. Plough, is Chief Science Officer and Vice President of Research-Evaluation-Learning at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
- Undergraduate Student Speaker: Madeline Plummer
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Graduate Student Speaker: Disha Shivakumar
Congrats, Dornsife Class of 2026!