Saint Francis University Announces Commencement Plans for 2026
Loretto, PA (04/21/2026) — Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania, is pleased to announce its 2026 Commencement Exercises, to be held at the Maurice Stokes Athletics Center's DeGol Arena on Saturday, May 9, and Sunday, May 10, 2026. Ceremony dates, times, and additional details are available at francis.edu/commencement.
This year's ceremonies will honor graduates from across the University's schools and celebrate their academic achievements alongside family, friends, and the campus community.
The 2026 commencement ceremonies will feature addresses from two distinguished speakers with strong ties to the University's mission and Franciscan values.
Dr. Elliott Bedford, MA, PhD, will serve as commencement speaker for the School of Health Sciences & Education graduate and undergraduate ceremony on Saturday, May 9. A graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville, Dr. Bedford currently serves as Director of Ethics Integration for Ascension St. Vincent in Central and Southern Indiana and Ascension Via Christi in Kansas. He holds advanced degrees in philosophy and theology and earned his doctorate in Health Care Ethics from Saint Louis University. In addition to his professional work in ethics, he serves as an adjunct professor at Marian University's College of Osteopathic Medicine and is board chair of Ignite Formation, LLC. He and his wife, Theresa, are the parents of five children.
Sr. Dr. Margaret Carney, OSF, will deliver the address at the combined ceremonies for the Shields School of Business; the School of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics; and the Division of Professional Studies on Sunday, May 10. A member of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities, Sr. Margaret has dedicated her life to Catholic higher education and Franciscan leadership. She holds degrees from Duquesne University and St. Bonaventure University and completed her doctoral studies at the Pontifical Antonianum University in Rome. Sr. Margaret previously served as dean and president of St. Bonaventure University from 2004 to 2016 and has held leadership roles in national Catholic education organizations. Her many honors include the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Medal from Pope Francis. She continues her work as a consultant, lecturer, and author promoting Franciscan values.
Saint Francis University in Loretto, PA, is the oldest Catholic-Franciscan college in the United States. Its mission is to help students grow into compassionate, successful professionals through a culture of faith, generosity, respect, discovery, and joy. Saint Francis University offers traditional campus-based learning and competitive online and graduate degree offerings.
Saint Francis University
Marie Young (814) 472-3127 myoung@francis.edu, Erin McCloskey (814) 472-3938 emcccloskey@francis.eduShare this Story
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