Manchester University celebrates the Class of 2026
North Manchester, IN (06/02/2026) — Manchester University graduated 269 students at this year's commencement ceremonies.
In total, 286 degrees were awarded, including 186 undergraduate degrees and 100 graduate and professional degrees. Twenty-eight students earned honors distinction.
This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the graduation of Manchester's inaugural pharmacy class in 2016. The program launched in 2012 alongside the opening of Manchester University Fort Wayne.
David Haist, a 1973 Manchester graduate, was this year's commencement speaker and honorary degree recipient. He served as a member of the MU Board of Trustees for five terms and became an honorary trustee in 2025.
The ceremonies highlighted several meaningful MU traditions. For the third year, some students were handed their diplomas by family members who work at Manchester, a tradition introduced by President Stacy H. Young in 2024.
With the installation of the Manchester Chime in 2022, another new tradition was born: students wait until they graduate to pass under the Chime. As part of the commencement recessional, new alumni walked through the Chime's pillars for the first time.
Another longstanding tradition connects students' first and final days at Manchester. As incoming students, all Spartans are given an acorn. After every graduation ceremony, when students have officially become alumni, they receive oak saplings from the Office of Alumni Relations, symbolizing their growth from acorns to oaks.
See photos from the undergraduate ceremony here and the graduate and professional ceremony here.
For the media
Manchester University, in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., offers vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester.
Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.
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Chloe Leckrone, cnleckrone@manchester.eduShare this Story
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