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Manchester University to hold first-ever December commencement ceremony

North Manchester, IN (11/03/2026) — This December, Manchester University will hold its first December commencement ceremony, celebrating the students who completed their degrees during the fall semester.

Fifty students from six different programs are expected to cross the Cordier Auditorium stage on Friday, Dec. 11.

Twenty-five of these students are from Manchester's first Doctor of Physical Therapy cohort. The program launched in Summer 2024. Their graduation will mark a historic moment as the first students to earn this degree from Manchester University. As pioneers of the program, they have helped establish a foundation for future generations of physical therapists at Manchester.

The addition of a December commencement ceremony allows those completing degree requirements in the fall to celebrate this important milestone at the end of their final semester. The traditional spring commencement ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 1, 2027.

"This new tradition marks an exciting milestone in Manchester's history and, most importantly, celebrates the hard work, perseverance and accomplishments of our graduates," said Leon Letter, chief academic officer and general counsel. "We are proud to recognize these students as they reach this significant moment in their academic journeys and look ahead to the opportunities that await them. While Manchester has historically awarded degrees to students completing their academic requirements in December, this inaugural December commencement ceremony responds to the needs and aspirations of our graduates with an opportunity to celebrate their achievements with family, friends and the University community at the time they complete their studies, rather than waiting until spring."

The inaugural December Commencement speaker is President Emeritus Dave McFadden.

After graduating from Manchester in 1982, McFadden earned his Ph.D. in political science at Claremont Graduate University, where he then served as an administrator for six years. He eventually returned to his alma mater and hometown to lead Manchester's enrollment efforts. Over the next two decades, McFadden worked in strategic planning, marketing, institutional research and institutional accreditation. As assistant professor of political science, he taught environmental politics.

In 2004, McFadden was appointed executive vice president. In this role, he led the exploration and launch of Manchester's pharmacy program and the opening of Manchester University Fort Wayne, becoming dean of the College of Pharmacy in 2012. He was inaugurated as president in July 2014 and retired in June 2023.

As president, he established new health science programs, including pharmacogenomics, nutrition and nutrigenomics, nursing and physical therapy. He also oversaw development and construction of campus buildings including the Jean Childs Young Intercultural Center, Lockie and Augustus Chinworth Center, Spartan Stadium, and the Manchester Chime.

For the media

Manchester University, in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., and online, offers vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester.

Our mission and values

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.

Media Attachments

President Emeritus Dave McFadden, the inaugural December commencement speaker.

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