Walsh University celebrates commencement, honors graduates and distinguished guests
Walsh University held its 2026 Commencement Ceremonies on May 2, honoring nearly 600 graduates from 26 states and 14 countries in two ceremonies at the Gaetano M. Cecchini Family Health and Wellness Complex.
The event marked an important milestone for students completing their academic journey and highlighted the university’s commitment to faith, service, and personal growth. Walsh University promotes a community dedicated to academic excellence and personal growth, maintains a modern campus, offers more than 70 undergraduate majors along with seven graduate programs, and was founded under the affiliation of the Brothers of Christian Instruction, according to the official website.
Dr. Timothy J. Collins, President of Walsh University, addressed graduates by saying: “Your formation as men and women of character is the primary end of Catholic education – your Walsh University experience. The secondary end is the formation of useful citizens. Your greatest achievement will forever be marked not by what you do – but by what you do for others.”
During the ceremony, Dr. Chris Stefanick received an Honorary Doctorate of Applied Theology after delivering a keynote address urging graduates to remember their identity in God: “if we forget whose we are, then we will forget who we are.” Stefanick encouraged them to share their faith boldly and serve others selflessly.
Michael E. White was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Applied Engineering for his contributions to hypersonic technologies and missile defense systems. White told graduates that earning a degree from a faith-based institution gives them “a secret weapon” built on Christian values for bettering humankind.
State Representative Scott Oelslager received the Distinguished Service Medal as he prepares to conclude his legislative career focused on education and community investment; he shared a poem emphasizing perseverance with attendees. Dr. Michael Dunphy also received this medal in recognition of over four decades serving as professor and administrator at Walsh University.
This year’s ceremony included historic recognition for Transition U program participants—students with developmental disabilities who walked across stage in cap and gown for the first time since program inception fifteen years ago through collaboration between North Canton City Schools and Walsh University.
His Excellency Bishop David Bonnar presided over Baccalaureate Holy Mass between ceremonies encouraging graduates to exercise their faith actively while referencing NFL draft pick Fernando Mendoza’s example of prioritizing family over public attention.
