As names were called and caps lifted across three days of celebration, more than 1,000 Marian University graduates stepped forward, each carrying a story shaped by challenge, purpose, and a commitment to serve.
During its 89th Commencement Ceremonies, held May 1–3 across its Indianapolis and Plymouth campuses, Marian awarded associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees to the Class of 2026, graduates prepared to lead in healthcare, education, business, and communities across Indiana and beyond.
Among them were recipients of advanced degrees, including future physicians from the Marian University Tom and Julie Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine, Doctor of Nursing Practice graduates from the Leighton School of Nursing, and doctoral candidates in Organizational Leadership from the Klipsch Educators College. Undergraduate degrees were conferred, including to the first graduating class of the E.S. Witchger School of Engineering, a milestone reflecting Marian’s continued growth in high-demand fields.
Across each ceremony, a common thread emerged: Marian graduates are not only equipped with knowledge and skills but also grounded in a mission that calls them to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.
A Weekend of Milestones
Commencement ceremonies were held on Marian’s Plymouth and Indianapolis campuses:
- - Friday, May 1 – Marian University Plymouth
- - Saturday, May 2 – Undergraduate ceremony, Indianapolis campus
- - Sunday, May 3 – Graduate and doctoral ceremony, Indianapolis campus
From first-generation college graduates to doctoral candidates entering highly specialized professions, the ceremonies reflected the breadth of Marian’s academic programs and the growing impact of its graduates.
Honoring Leadership and Service
Marian University also recognized leaders whose work reflects the values it seeks to instill in its graduates.
At the Plymouth ceremony, Martin Oosterbaan, board chair of the Marshall County Community Foundation, and Richard “Rick” and Barbara “Barbie” Miller, co-owners of The Zone Sports Complex and Event Center, were honored for their commitment to strengthening communities across North Central Indiana.
During the undergraduate ceremony, The Most Rev. Charles C. Thompson, Archbishop of Indianapolis, delivered the keynote address, encouraging graduates to live out their faith through service. Denise Feser, Marian University trustee and alumna, was recognized for her enduring leadership and dedication to the University.
At the graduate and doctoral ceremony, Indiana State Representative Danny Lopez, president and CEO of Vincam Public Relations, delivered the keynote address, and Teresa Lubbers, president of Sagamore Institute and former Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education, was honored for her longstanding leadership in education and public service.
Carrying the Mission Forward
For the Class of 2026, commencement marks more than an academic milestone; it signals the beginning of a lifelong commitment to serve others.