Each year, Gettysburg College students continue represent the United States as Fulbright recipients, sharing the knowledge and skills they gained through our liberal arts and sciences education with new students all around the world.

Every year, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers competitive fellowships to support students across the nation who wish to pursue advanced studies, research, or teaching opportunities abroad. This year, three Gettysburg students were named Fulbright semifinalists and two received prestigious grants to go abroad: Josh Judson ’25 (Poland) and Trevor Weakly ’26 (Germany).

In the past three years, eight Gettysburg College students have been awarded grants, which is nearly 20% of the College’s historic total. Since 2024, five students have received awards to German-speaking countries, Germany or Austria. This year also saw the first STEM Fulbright recipient from Gettysburg since 2019.

Through their global experiences, these students will have the opportunity to employ the knowledge and enduring skills they gained at Gettysburg to grow personally and professionally and represent the United States in foreign countries.

“In a highly competitive environment, Gettysburg students once again showed off their credentials on the biggest stage,” said German Studies Prof. Tres Lambert, who oversees the Fulbright program on campus. “All of our finalists and semifinalists this year had extensive and intensive experience abroad, which is a concrete demonstration of the payoff that global engagement can provide. At a time when cross-cultural understanding is more important than ever, it’s an honor to see these students go on to pursue life- and potentially world-changing opportunities.”

Partnering with 160 countries around the world, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program is the flagship international academic exchange program sponsored by the United States government. It offers experiences in all academic disciplines to graduating college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals through study and research grants as well as English Teaching Assistantships. Fulbright recipients live, work, and learn from natives of their host country, growing their intercultural fluency skills in the classroom and field of work, and go on to serve consequential roles in their careers as global citizens and leaders.

This year’s honorees are:

Josh Judson ’25

• Hometown: Arvada, Colorado
• Major: Biology
• Minor: History
• Fulbright Honor: Recipient of Fulbright research grant in Poland

“During my time at Gettysburg, I had the privilege of pursuing a wide range of experiences, including performing research through X-SIG with Dr. Angel Solis, running on the cross country and track teams, living in STEM house, and much more. I also studied abroad in Stockholm, Sweden, and the experience motivated me to apply for a Fulbright research grant in Poland.

“There, I'll be working in a lab that investigates potential treatments for eczema in the beautiful city of Gdańsk. I’m excited to learn more about the Polish people, what makes Poland unique, and how the country is continuing to grow and evolve. I enjoy spending time outdoors, being with friends and my church community, and going on adventures that push me outside of my comfort zone.”
– Josh Judson ’25

Trevor Weakly ’26

• Hometown: Frederick, Maryland
• Majors: German studies and history
• Minors: Anthropology and public history
• Fulbright Honor: Recipientof Fulbright Teaching Assistant (ETA) award in Germany

“After my Fulbright grant, I plan to pursue a master’s degree and continue on in the field of public history. I will further develop my pedagogical skills while teaching English in Germany, which will play a role in my career.

“I already have a strong connection to Germany. I studied abroad in Freiburg for two semesters. I loved living there for a year and I am excited for this opportunity to give back to the community. I would like to thank Prof. Lambert for his unfailing support throughout the application process.”
– Trevor Weakly ’26

Aidan Martin ’26

• Hometown: Middleburgh, New York
• Majors: Globalization studies (IGS) and Spanish
• Minors: History and political science
• Fulbright Honor: Semifinalistfor Fulbright Teaching Assistant (ETA) award in Spain

For the 2026-2027 award cycle, semifinalists were notified in January and finalist notifications were released beginning in April 2026. The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is currently accepting applications for the 2027-2028 award cycle until the national deadline of Oct. 6, 2026. Students or alumni interested in applying for a Fulbright grant through Gettysburg College should contact Prof. Tres Lambert at rlambert@gettysburg.edu.

“With the incredible experiences in area studies, and our wealth of study abroad options, I look forward to recruiting another cohort of excellent and well-prepared candidates for the 2027-28 application cycle,” added Lambert.

Build a foundation for lifelong learning with creative opportunities abroad, like fellowships through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program.

About the Fulbright U.S. Student Program

The Fulbright Program was introduced by Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas and passed into law by President Harry Truman in 1946. Each year, about 8,000 students, teachers, and professors from the United States and 160 countries receive grant awards, which are grounded in the notion of promoting “mutual and cross-cultural understanding” after the conclusion of World War II. In all, since the program was established, more than 400,000 Fulbright recipients have pursued global studies, research, and teaching in 165 countries. Fulbright alumni have included 62 Nobel Prize recipients, 78 MacArthur Foundation Fellows, 89 Pulitzer Prize winners, and 41 current or former heads of state or government. 

“Every time I come back, I feel renewed and refreshed. I’m reminded that this is the place that made me the freethinker, the person who is focused on community and making everyone feel included and part of something,” she said.

Cross credits Gettysburg’s culture of connection and curiosity with helping students discover who they are and who they want to become.

“We are inquisitive; we are people-people. We see each other as whole versions of ourselves,” she added. “That was the core of my Gettysburg experience: Create what you want. Think freely.”

As a student, Cross was an Africana studies and English double major, while participating in dozens of activities, clubs, and organizations. She was a member of the Black Student Union (BSU), NAACP, Sigma Gamma Rho, Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society, Gospel Choir, and B.O.M.B. Squad, Gettysburg’s hip-hop dance team. Cross also worked as a tour guide for the Admissions Office, supported Alumni Relations, and assisted with the Senior Class Gift Campaign.

Today, Cross, a senior project manager for strategic impact at the U.S. Green Building Council, remains actively involved with her alma mater. As president of the Gettysburg Alumni of Color Council (GACC) since 2024, she works with members of the College community to foster communication, engagement, and philanthropy among current students and future alumni.

“Gettysburg gave me more than an education. It gave me the confidence to lead.”
– Jaclynn Cross ’10

A dedicated connector and fundraiser through Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving, Cross supported her fifth and 10th reunion committees and served as co-chair for the 15th reunion of her graduating class. She was also a featured presenter during the College’s annual Alumni J-Term series in 2024 and 2025.

In 2025, Gettysburg presented her with the Young Alumni Achievement Award for Service.

“Gettysburg gave me more than an education. It gave me the confidence to lead,” she said. “It taught me the value of community, leadership, and service, and those lessons continue to shape how I show up in the world.”

#HumansofGettysburg

Gettysburg College’s liberal arts and sciences education creates a multidisciplinary foundation for students pursuing legal careers. For Judge Brett Engler ’08, Associate Judge of the District Court of Maryland, 11th District, Gettysburg’s focus on academic rigor, skill-building, and faculty mentorships helped her pursue her career ambitions in the legal field.

The Honorable Brett Engler ’08 takes the bench in the courtroom as she prepares for opening arguments in the next case. As she hears testimony, considers evidence, and prepares to issue a verdict, Engler remains focused on upholding justice while exercising the critical thinking and compassion she developed as an undergraduate at Gettysburg College.

Engler, originally from Annapolis, Maryland, said Gettysburg fulfilled her desire for a college experience that fostered a personalized education within a liberal arts setting. “Gettysburg was somewhat close to home but still far enough,” she said. “The historical nature of the town and the things to do made Gettysburg very attractive.”

Gettysburg’s track and cross-country programs also stood out to Engler, contributing to her decision to commit to Gettysburg. She recalls retired Gettysburg track and field coach Aubrey Shenk as not only a coach but also a mentor who supported her throughout her college journey.

“He helped me develop the discipline, self-focus, and team focus that I would need to be a successful lawyer,” she said.

Mentors who mattered

A history and political science double major, Engler forged relationships with faculty mentors such as Tim Shannon, the Edwin T. Johnson & Cynthia Shearer Johnson Distinguished Teaching Chair in the Humanities Professor; History Prof. Emeritus Michael Birkner ’72, P’10; the late Political Science Prof. Emeritus Ken Mott; and Africana Studies Prof. Scott Hancock.

“Prof. Mott taught constitutional law,” she said. “I had an interest in law, but learning about civil rights, the Supreme Court cases, and the history really led me toward thinking about law school. He loved the law and taught us the power of the law.”

Mott was also involved in establishing the Eisenhower Institute, which Engler joined as an Eisenhower Fellow.

“His faith in me pushed me to consider additional ways to engage in significant topics. The Eisenhower Institute became a great resume builder for me,” she said.

Engler also acknowledges the impact of English Prof. Chris Fee and his First-Year Seminar on homelessness in America. She recalls a service-learning trip to the D.C. Central Kitchen and local shelters that introduced her and her classmates to individuals and families who had experienced homelessness. The course, she said, challenged students to confront societal assumptions about poverty, homelessness, and social inequities.

As a judge, Engler presides over a varied caseload of criminal, traffic, domestic violence, and general civil matters. Every day she sees litigants in the Frederick community coming to the courthouse from all walks of life. Developing perspective and a broad view of society was something Engler learned at Gettysburg, with encouragement from her mentors.

“Prof. Hancock encouraged us to get out into the community,” Engler said. “For my senior capstone, I completed an oral history project in which I interviewed African Americans who grew up in Gettysburg during the Civil Rights Movement in order to learn about and record how they connected to the broader Civil Rights Movement from the small town famous for the battle over slavery.

“Prof. Birkner also tasked us to complete oral histories with some of the last remaining World War II veterans of Gettysburg. The man I interviewed had never shared his story with anyone, but spoke to me for hours in his home. After I presented him with the transcribed interview, he sent me a note thanking me for giving his family such a gift. I heard that he passed away several years later. The experience really stuck with me and showed me the powerful human connections that can be forged by listening to the experiences of others,” Engler said.

“Gettysburg is a place where you can have discussions and open your mind to different perspectives.”
– Judge Brett Engler ’08

‘Think globally, but also locally’

The lifelong impact of a Gettysburg education is evident in Engler’s career development in the law.

Last fall, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore appointed Engler to serve as an Associate Judge of the District Court of Maryland, 11th District, which includes Frederick and Washington counties. Engler’s 10-year appointment makes her the youngest of Frederick County’s three District Court judges and the only woman to serve on the court currently.

After earning her law degree from the University of Baltimore School of Law in 2011 Engler clerked for the Honorable Clayton Greene of the Supreme Court of Maryland before serving Frederick County as a career prosecutor. She was the Chief of the Domestic Violence Unit prior to her appointment, handling cases ranging from misdemeanor violence to domestic homicide.

“Prof. Hancock and Prof. Birkner encouraged the open sharing of ideas, in addition to teaching us the value of empathy and inclusion.”
– Judge Brett Engler ’08

As chair of the Frederick County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council (DVCC) and the Frederick County Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team (DVFRT), Engler brought together criminal justice and community advocates to improve Frederick County’s response to domestic violence. She also served on the Legal Committee for the Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention and the Criminal Justice Subcommittee of Maryland’s Domestic Violence Fatality Review Statewide Implementation Team (MD-DVRSIT).

As she reflects on her career pathway, Engler credits Gettysburg’s ability to empower students to “think globally, but also locally.”

“Gettysburg is a place where you can have discussions and open your mind to different perspectives,” she said. “I remember having those discussions in Constitutional Law and Law in Society classes. It was always an open environment. Prof. Hancock and Prof. Birkner encouraged the open sharing of ideas, in addition to teaching us the value of empathy and inclusion.”

Engler believes that inclusivity remains a distinctive hallmark of the Gettysburg community.

“Everyone knew who you were, and when you got on campus, you could recognize almost everyone in your class,” she said. “I always felt safe there, not only physically but also intellectually, and was safe to express my ideas. I learned to develop my thought processes and think critically through situations. Gettysburg is truly a wonderful community.”

Learn to lead with integrity with a political science degree at Gettysburg College.

For Craig Disher ’66, Gettysburg College taught him to think critically, build community, and find purpose. Decades later, he and his wife, Susan, have transformed that lifelong connection into generous scholarship support and estate commitments that will expand opportunities for future Gettysburg students.

When Craig Disher ’66 reflects on his undergraduate years at Gettysburg College, he does not point to one defining moment. Instead, he remembers a way of life: crossing campus and seeing familiar faces, learning in small classes where professors became mentors, and gradually discovering how to think deeply and independently.

For Craig, Gettysburg was where he learned how to learn.

Craig arrived on campus during a transformative period in American life. As the Vietnam War intensified and the draft loomed over the men in his class, students wrestled with questions that reached far beyond the classroom. At Gettysburg, faculty helped him make sense of those issues and encouraged him to think deeply about history, politics, and the wider world.

Craig focused much of his academic work on East Asian history, including an independent study on early 20th-century Japanese economic development with the late History Prof. Roger Stemen. Stemen became one of Craig’s most influential mentors, helping him better understand Vietnam and encouraging him to read widely and critically.

Craig believes Gettysburg’s greatest strength was the close connection between students and faculty. He fondly remembers a constitutional history class with the late History Prof. Robert Bloom that had only four students—a setting that encouraged conversation, debate, and mentorship in a way that felt impossible to replicate elsewhere.

“The close contact with the professors was something that was just a dream,” Craig said. “Four people for a semester, just sitting there, hearing him talk, chatting back and forth. How could you possibly do better than that?”

After graduating, Craig was drafted and served in Vietnam with the 82nd Airborne Division, an experience he described as brief but intense. After leaving the Army, he began a 35-year career in the intelligence community. He was first assigned to research certain topics involving national strategic issues, but within a few years, a chance opportunity led him into the technical management of projects involving mathematics, computer engineering, politics, and coordination across the intelligence community. His liberal arts education at Gettysburg provided an ideal foundation for such a varied and challenging career.

Susan’s connection to Gettysburg began later but became just as meaningful. Craig and Susan met in 1981 through mutual friends at work. As they dated, they returned to Gettysburg each October for Homecoming. Although Susan did not attend the College, she quickly came to appreciate what Craig valued so deeply.

“I grew to really love Gettysburg,” Susan said. “It’s a beautiful campus. The students are really nice and enthusiastic. The professors are bright and fun to be around.”

That connection deepened over time. The Dishers describe Gettysburg as a place where they feel welcomed by longtime friends and more recent acquaintances. Faculty and staff stop to say hello. The campus feels familiar, but never static. When students are present, they say, Gettysburg has a different energy.

That sense of belonging and community eventually became a desire to give back.

Their philanthropy has focused especially on scholarships, an expression of their belief that a Gettysburg education can change a student’s life, just as it changed Craig’s. They have established two endowed scholarships: one for a student majoring in the sciences and another for a student studying East Asian studies, reflecting Craig’s academic focus at Gettysburg and Susan’s degree in Japanese.

During Gettysburg Great: The Campaign for Our College, Craig and Susan also made a substantial estate commitment to fully fund the two endowed scholarships.

Their most recent commitment, made in summer 2024, extends their support even further by initiating a full scholarship for a student preparing to attend medical school. The scholarship honors Susan’s father, a pediatrician, and recognizes the financial pressures facing students who plan to continue their education beyond Gettysburg. Full funding for the scholarship is guaranteed through their estate plan.

For the Dishers, these scholarships are personal. They reflect their academic interests, careers, family, and desire to help students who might otherwise face financial barriers to a Gettysburg education. To Craig and Susan, the scholarships reinforce what Gettysburg does best: helping students find direction, surrounding them with people who care, and teaching them not only what to know, but how to think.

Craig experienced this support from the College as a student. Susan came to love Gettysburg as a partner, visitor, and advocate. Together, they have chosen to make similar experiences possible for others.

As they look ahead, the Dishers remain grateful to be part of the Gettysburg community. Their support is rooted in memory, strengthened by belonging, and directed toward the students who will shape the College’s future.

“We are really glad to be part of the family. It’s a nice feeling as we get older,” Susan said.

And through their generosity, future Gettysburg students will be part of that family, too.

Help our students discover their potential by supporting student success at Gettysburg today.

Through expert interviews, student-led learning, and a research-focused trip to Japan, the Eisenhower Institute Undergraduate Fellows connected classroom knowledge with global policy and career readiness.

At a time when science, innovation, federal funding, and global competition are increasingly intertwined, Gettysburg College students in the Eisenhower Institute’s (EI) Undergraduate Fellows program examined a question with implications far beyond any single discipline: How do nations decide what science to fund, what innovation to prioritize, and what responsibilities come with discovery?

Led by Harold G. Evans Professor of Eisenhower Leadership Studies and Biology Prof. Ryan Kerney, the yearlong fellowship, titled “The Policies of Science and Innovation” and supported by Roy ’68, P’02 and Nancy P’02 Fairman, brought together students from STEM, economics, public policy, and related fields to study the policies that shape scientific research and technological progress.

“When I applied for the Evans Professorship, I pitched the idea of doing something along the lines of how science and innovation are supported through policy and the different ways governments can invest in the research and development pipeline,” Kerney said.

The fellowship combined weekly conversations with faculty and field experts, student-led speaker sessions, writing projects, and a January trip to Japan, where students visited research institutes, scientific funding agencies, and educational institutions. For Tracie Potts, executive director of the Eisenhower Institute, the program also advanced a key institutional goal.

“The thing that excites me so much about this program is we can see movement toward achieving what was one of our strategic goals when I came to EI, which was broadening the academic diversity of our students,” Potts said. “We’re drawing students across academic programs, including computer science, biology, chemistry, mathematical economics, and more.”

Potts noted that the Institute has been intentional about developing programs that remain focused on policy while attracting students beyond traditional policy-centered majors.

“We had a very intentional goal of how we can develop different programming that will still focus on policy, but help students around campus see that they don’t have to just be public policy or political science majors,” she said.

Throughout the year, Fellows explored topics including the research and development pipeline, federal budgets, National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Science Foundation (NSF) funding, biomedical research policy, science inequalities and trust, the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, AI security, public health policy, technology startups, and science communication.

In the fall, Kerney helped shape the speaker lineup by bringing in faculty colleagues and off-campus experts to talk with the Fellows. In the spring, students identified and invited professionals aligned with their academic and career interests, giving them experience building professional networks.

That practical approach was central to the fellowship. Kerney said students in scientific fields often focus narrowly on experiments or technical problems, but policy awareness gives them a broader understanding of how discovery becomes possible.

“You should put the policy stuff more front and center,” Kerney said, recalling advice he gave one student preparing for industry opportunities. “It shows a bit of breadth and broader thinking about how the overall product gets made from the scientific endeavor.”

The program’s international component gave Fellows a comparative lens. In January, students traveled to Japan, visiting sites including the RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research in Kobe, Kansai Gaidai University, the University of Tokyo, Utsunomiya Higashi Super Science High School, Nikko Academy/Japan Amphibian Laboratory, AMED (the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development) Tokyo, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.

The group’s visit to Hiroshima added a deeper ethical dimension to the study of science policy, allowing students to consider the Manhattan Project, the dawn of the nuclear era, and the human consequences of one of the largest federally supported science projects in history.

Potts said the experience helped students translate academic knowledge into real-world understanding.

“They were able to go to Japan, talk with people who are doing projects that are government funded, visit the labs, and then draw comparisons to how the U.S. approaches policy,” she said.

At the end of the year, Fellows presented their work and reflections on the program, synthesizing what they learned from expert conversations, site visits, research, and comparative study of science policy in the United States and Japan. Students also wrote op-eds intended for publication, giving them experience translating complex policy questions for public audiences and contributing their own voices to broader conversations about science, innovation, and society.

Under Kerney’s guidance, the fellowship program will continue with the theme “Federal Investments in Science” during the 2026-27 academic year. According to the Eisenhower Institute, next year’s Fellows will examine how science advances through government investments in scientific research and training, the long-term impact of those investments on national priorities, and how the U.S. approach compares with other countries.

For Potts, that continuation reflects the value of a program that gives students practical, interdisciplinary experiences they can carry into their careers.

“I think it makes our students much more competitive when they leave here and start looking for jobs,” she said. “It puts them worlds ahead of people who enter the market with a degree, but no applied experience. Our students have both.”

Learn how the Eisenhower Institute empowers students to create change now and in the future.

Supported by a Gettysburg College education, our students lean into their knowledge, skills, and talents to make a change in their home countries through leadership and service opportunities.

Since 2016, Gettysburg College has partnered with the SHE-CAN scholarship program to enable young women to serve as conduits for change in their home nations of Cambodia, Guatemala, Liberia, and Rwanda. Through scholarships, mentorship, and leadership training, scholars gain the skills and confidence to drive meaningful change. 

At Gettysburg College, this partnership fosters a supportive environment where the following SHE-CAN scholars have thrived academically, personally, and as emerging leaders. Together, these individuals strengthen Gettysburg through leadership, service, and global perspective. Their achievements showcase the power of the SHE-CAN partnership, cultivating changemakers who drive impact on campus and around the world. 

Mishael Ohanwadi ’25, who majored in environmental studies at Gettysburg, personifies the SHE-CAN impact. At Gettysburg, Ohanwadi studied abroad in Seville, Spain, served as a Resident Assistant, and contributed to the College’s sports medicine team.

Through the Garthwait Leadership Certificate and her work as a financial well-being ambassador, Ohanwadi developed leadership and service skills that she continues to apply as an environmental and food policy intern at the Corn Refiners Association, advancing sustainability and improving the lives of Liberian citizens. 

Drawn to community health advocacy, Tawah Tamba ’26, a health sciences major from Liberia, dedicated herself to public health and service. As the founder and CEO of Ayuda Humanitarian Initiatives, she supports vulnerable communities through food distribution and empowerment programs. In 2025, she led a summer initiative in Liberia, Make a Change, focused on menstrual hygiene education and entrepreneurship, helping women produce sustainable menstrual products.

Reflecting on her experience, Tamba said, “Being selected as a SHE-CAN scholar was a dream come true.” She credits Gettysburg’s supportive environment—including the DiscipleMakers Christian Fellowship (DCF), the Center for Public Service, the Gettysburg African Student Association (GASA), Campus Kitchen, and WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital—for helping her transform her personal story into acts of purposeful service to others.

Antoinette Weah ’27 of Liberia lives a life of leadership, entrepreneurship, and service. A health sciences major with a business minor, she serves as vice president of the Class of 2027 and is an active member of the Student Senate. In 2025, she took part in the Public Service Immersion Project in Puerto Rico, where she explored issues related to statehood, debt, and entrepreneurship. 

Weah is the founder and CEO of OC CREAM, a business that empowers youth and women in Liberia. She has also led first-aid training initiatives, global immersion experiences, and clinical shadowing. Driven by her vision to strengthen Liberia’s health care and economic systems, Weah continues to build a future rooted in innovation, leadership, and social impact. 

Aspiring to become an international lawyer, Sema Williams ’27 of Liberia focuses on combating marginalization, gender-based violence, and rape in Liberia. At Gettysburg, as an international and global studies and sociology double major, she applies her knowledge to advocacy, research, and community projects like her nonprofit organization, Girls Breaking Barriers, through which she teaches girls about leadership and entrepreneurship and supports access to education for underprivileged high school students. 

“Being selected as a SHE-CAN scholar feels both empowering and humbling,” Williams said. “It means someone saw potential in me and believed in my ability to lead and create change.”

Through the Eisenhower Institute, Center for Public Service, and leadership in GASA (Gettysburg African Student Association), Williams strengthens her voice and skills to champion women’s education and empowerment. 

Nimol Seng ’28, an international and global studies major from Cambodia, brings academic excellence and a global perspective to Gettysburg. She serves as campus ambassador for The Women’s Network, secretary of the Chinese Culture Club, and participates in Model United Nations and the International Affairs Association.

Seng also volunteers on projects addressing food insecurity and sustainability. She strives to strengthen Cambodia’s international development and empower women in her home country. 

Sengly “Lyz” An ’29, a double major in international and global studies and political science from Cambodia, has worked to expand access to education through her role as a communications specialist at Snoopedu, where she helps integrate hands-on STEAM education into Cambodian school curricula. She has also gained experience in digital marketing with Jaikon Team2, supporting the distribution of international films in Cambodia, worked as a private Khmer tutor for expatriates, and contributed to a BBC interview translation project on efforts to address domestic violence in Cambodia.

“Coming from very humble roots, SHE-CAN has eased financial pressures and allowed me to fully immerse myself in my college experience,” An said. She added that she is ready to turn her Gettysburg education into opportunities to create meaningful impact at home and abroad. 

Be empowered to create change in the Gettysburg College community with the Center for Public Service.

Van-Anh Tran ’27, a student Leadership Educator with the Garthwait Leadership Center (GLC), co-authored a book chapter on international students’ experiences in leadership positions. Tran drew on research for an anthropology fieldwork methods class at Gettysburg College and an experiential learning opportunity through the GLC.

When Van-Anh Tran ’27 began an ethnographic project for her anthropology fieldwork methods class at Gettysburg College, she couldn’t have anticipated that the assignment would lead to a published work. Through an opportunity with the Garthwait Leadership Center (GLC) — where she worked as a student Leadership Educator — Tran turned experiential learning of leadership into scholarly insights. Her research appears in the book “International Student Experiences in the United States and Canada: A Multidisciplinary Examination of Challenges, Prospects, and Opportunities” (Star Scholars Press, 2026).

Tran, an anthropology major from Vietnam, designed her anthropology fieldwork methods project around a question that had long interested her. She examined how leadership programs help international students acculturate to U.S. campuses despite the difficulties they face. As an international student herself, she had noticed that conventional ideas of “leadership” often reflect Western cultural norms, favoring assertive, directive communication styles that did not necessarily align with her own background.

“Leadership was honestly a vague idea that’s kind of culturally and socioeconomically biased,” she explained.

Her work at the GLC changed that understanding. Through hands-on experience as a Leadership Educator, Tran learned to embrace “her authentic self and cultural insights,” while also learning how to “serve others’ needs,” she explained.

The opportunity to publish some of her research from her Gettysburg coursework came after Tran attended the 2024 Leadership Educators Institute (LEI) in Philadelphia, made possible by funding from the GLC. There, she met Laura Vaughn, a Ph.D. candidate at Florida State University who was presenting her own research on international students in leadership positions. The two discovered overlapping interests and decided to collaborate on chapter eight of Vaughn’s book.

Despite the logistical challenges of coordinating across time zones, the collaboration proved successful. “Laura was very patient with me, and everything worked out perfectly,” Tran said. 

Tran also observed how program participants and colleagues from diverse backgrounds formed meaningful relationships over time. Those observations served as the foundation for her chapter, which focuses on the GLC’s strategies for fostering authentic leadership and well-being in its programs. Her key finding is that growth and belonging come from trust and autonomy, which must be intentionally built into relationships between facilitators and students.

“Good programming also takes time—lots of it,” she said, noting that educators must listen to student concerns and make appropriate changes over time.

Tran hopes her experience will encourage other international students to pursue majors in the social sciences and humanities. These fields sometimes carry stigma or financial concern among students from developing countries. “I just want to clear that hesitation,” she said. “Anthropology does have a lot of practical applications and career paths that can be lucrative, such as in tech fields.”

Trans credits Gettysburg College’s Anthropology Department—and specifically Chair Donna Lynn Perry—for supporting her academic goals. 

“Gettysburg has an amazing Anthropology Department with professors who are always willing to go the extra mile to help dedicated students achieve their academic and career goals,” Tran said.

Explore your potential to lead and mentor at Gettysburg with the Garthwait Leadership Center.

Gettysburg College’s 191st Commencement celebrated the Class of 2026’s transformation through community, challenge, and A Consequential Education. Their four years here have empowered them to embrace uncertainty, lead with purpose, and be all in for a world that needs them.

With sunshine glistening off the white columns on the Beachem Portico of Pennsylvania Hall, Gettysburg College celebrated the Class of 2026 during its 191st Commencement ceremony, honoring 553 graduates whose journeys to Gettysburg began in communities across the country and around the world. Together, the graduates represented 30 countries, reflecting the breadth, talent, and promise of a class shaped by curiosity, perseverance, and connection.

Before the speeches began, graduates took part in one of the College’s most meaningful Commencement traditions: processing through Pennsylvania Hall toward an expectant crowd of family and friends. The passage marked both an ending and a beginning, as members of the Class of 2026 entered the ceremony as students and prepared to depart as Gettysburg alumni.

In his opening remarks, President Bob Iuliano reflected on the transformation that had taken place over the graduates’ four years at Gettysburg.

“Class of 2026, you passed through Pennsylvania Hall this morning a very different person than you arrived just four years ago,” Iuliano said. “You have been changed, forever. You have been changed because of your own hard work and determination, which we celebrate today.

“You have also been changed by virtue of the people who walked alongside you on your journey,” Iuliano continued, gesturing toward thousands of friends, classmates, family, faculty, and staff assembled across the north lawn between Penn Hall and Musselman Library.

Iuliano reminded graduates that the most lasting lessons often emerge not from certainty, but from challenge. From the moment they arrived on campus, Gettysburg challenged graduates to solve problems and answer questions they may not have known the answers to previously. But through determination and hard work, they discovered solutions and, in doing so, learned more about themselves and what they are capable of achieving.

“Your education at Gettysburg has you ready for those moments.”
– President Bob Iuliano

That ability to navigate complexity, Iuliano said, is central to the Gettysburg experience and increasingly important in a world being reshaped by rapid change. That readiness reflects the promise of A Consequential Education: a unique Gettysburg Approach that helps students connect knowledge, experience, and purpose as they prepare for lives of meaning and impact.

“Your education at Gettysburg has you ready for those moments,” he said. “It has taught you to ‘live the question,’ to embrace the uncomfortable, to be open to the unexpected, to learn, to unlearn, and to relearn. In a world likely to be turned on its head by AI, that may be the most valuable gift with which you will be leaving here today.”

Student speaker Bishruti Rijal ’26, a biology major and neuroscience minor from Kathmandu, Nepal, reflected on the community the Class of 2026 built together and the sense of belonging that will endure beyond Commencement. At Gettysburg, Rijal shaped her community through the many opportunities she pursued, including serving as a residence coordinator, working with the Center for Global Education, conducting research in psychology and through the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute at Gettysburg (X-SIG), giving campus tours through Admissions, and engaging with the Center for Public Service, Garthwait Leadership Center, and Eisenhower Institute. She was also a member of Alpha Omicron Pi.

“We built community here. The kind that shows up,” Rijal said. “The people around you here are not just your college friends. They are not just a chapter in your life that ends today. They are proof that you already know how to do hard things. They are how you’ll do the next hard thing, too. They are your lifeboat as you embark on life’s next great journey.”

Rijal, who crossed an ocean while travelling 8,000 miles to find a home at Gettysburg, encouraged her classmates to trust the resilience they had already demonstrated.

“We leave here with knowledge, perspective, and resilience, but most importantly, we leave here knowing how to find our footing in unfamiliar places, because we already proved that we could,” she said.

Commencement speaker Kate Anderson ’09 returned to her alma mater with a message rooted in creativity, courage, and persistence. An acclaimed songwriter and librettist, Anderson has built a career across stage, film, and television, including work with Apple TV’s “Central Park,” Disney Animation’s “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure,” and internationally produced musicals such as “Between the Lines” and “The Book Thief.”

“Take a leap of faith and do something—and when it gets uncomfortable, don’t give up.”
– Kate Anderson ’09

Anderson noted it wasn’t that long ago when she was sitting in the same position as the graduates outside Penn Hall, wondering what was next. It was a scary moment she recalled, filled with trepidation about the unknown journey ahead.

“The fear of failure or shame keeps us from doing so much,” Anderson told the graduates. “And that is dumb. Because you know what people don’t remember when you succeed? The part where you were vulnerable or ‘cringey.’ If we never take risks, we never see rewards.”

Anderson spoke candidly about setbacks, rejection, and the value of perseverance. Just a few years after leaving Gettysburg, she applied to the BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop in New York, a decision that changed her life. She met her writing partner, Elyssa Samsel, and together they worked tirelessly toward their goal of making it in the music industry. They eventually got their big break with “Between the Lines,” a musical based on the book written by best-selling author Jodi Picoult.

“Many, many, many times it would have been easy to drop the bit, to give up and give in,” said Anderson, who majored in music with a creative writing minor. “Instead, we stayed in character. In retrospect, the humbling moments in a career are often the most important.”

Anderson also reminded graduates that confidence and humility are not opposites, but partners. Confidence, Anderson said, helps people speak up when they have something meaningful to contribute, while humility allows them to recognize when it is time to listen. That balance, she emphasized, is essential to collaboration—bringing one’s own gifts to the table while trusting others to help build something stronger than anyone could create alone.

Then, echoing Iuliano’s call to embrace discomfort and uncertainty, Anderson challenged the Class of 2026 to persist through the moments when the path ahead feels unclear.

“So, I challenge you, Class of 2026. Commit to the bit,” she said. “Take a leap of faith and do something, and when it gets uncomfortable, don’t give up. Because something magical might happen. You might inspire someone else to do the same.”

The ceremony also included the conferral of honorary degrees to Anderson; James G. Basker, historian, literary scholar, educator, and president of the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History; Susan Eisenhower, policy strategist, author, and longtime leader with the Eisenhower Institute; and Chad Smith, president and CEO of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

After graduates crossed the stage to receive their degrees, waving to family members as they walked in front of Penn Hall and embracing faculty mentors off stage, the ceremony culminated with the recognition of the final two members of the Class of 2026: salutatorian Alice Mai-Anh Ngoc Nguyen ’26, a mathematical economics major from An Giang, Vietnam, and valedictorian Rebecca Ruggles ’26, a history major from Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland.

In his charge to the Class of 2026, Iuliano connected the themes of the day—community, uncertainty, authenticity, and courage—into a final call to action.

“My charge to you is simply this: be all in,” he said. “Be all in for your family and your friends. Be all in for your colleagues and communities. Be all in for a world that needs you.”

With that charge, the bell atop Glatfelter Hall began to ring and the Class of 2026 stepped into the world as Gettysburg College alumni—prepared to lead lives of consequence, to meet uncertainty with resilience, and to remain all in for the communities and causes that need them most.

Read President Iuliano’s full Commencement remarks.

Before heading off to Massachusetts for the next round of the NCAA Division III Women’s Lacrosse Championship, eight senior student-athletes were honored in a Special Commencement ceremony inside the College Union Building (CUB) Ballroom on Tuesday, May 12.

A tradition dating back 20 years, Special Commencement is a unique graduation event for student-athletes who may miss the main Commencement festivities due to NCAA playoff competition. This year’s event marked the 16th early graduation celebrated at Gettysburg since 2006.

“It’s special to have been part of this for four years,” said team captain Camryn Epstein ’26, a health sciences major from Medford, New Jersey. “We get to celebrate with the people who have been with us since the beginning. It’s just really meaningful and shows what our whole experience was like at Gettysburg.”

Joining Epstein on stage were Lauren Bloch ’26 from Westfield, New Jersey; Nora Crowther ’26 from Randolph, New Jersey; Julia Daly ’26 from McLean, Virginia; Sophia Liott ’26 from Ambler, Pennsylvania; Nina Marra ’26 from Ridgewood, New Jersey; Maddie Passarello ’26 from West Chester, Pennsylvania; and Dillon Troy ’26 from Mamaroneck, New York.

President Bob Iuliano, participating in his fifth consecutive Special Commencement, welcomed the graduates, family members, and teammates inside the newly renovated Ballroom. Iuliano was quick to note the unique opportunity Special Commencement affords those in attendance “to witness firsthand what has made your team so successful.”

“The way you celebrate one another,” he continued. “The way you uplift one another. The way you support and care for one another, as friends and as teammates.”

“A team is built by those who put others above themselves for the good of a shared goal.”
– President Bob Luliano

A native Bostonian, Iuliano relayed the plight of his hometown baseball team, the Boston Red Sox, and the decades of consternation surrounding their quest for a championship. Facing insurmountable odds in the 2004 American League Championship Series, a spark provided by pinch runner Dave Roberts helped propel the Sox to a come-from-behind series win against the rival New York Yankees and eventually, the club’s first World Series title in 86 years.

Iuliano pointed out the necessity of teams having selfless, committed players, what he called “glue guys,” who aren’t concerned with glory and records. They work for the betterment of the group.

“I share that story because, in many ways, our world needs more ‘glue guys’—more teammates who make everyone around them better,” Iuliano said. “A team is built by those who put others above themselves for the good of a shared goal."

Speaking on behalf of the faculty, Spanish Prof. Radost Rangelova applauded the graduates’ work on and off the field and the contributions they have made to the liberal arts. Those contributions may end as undergraduates at Gettysburg, but the opportunity to share the knowledge and skills they have gained during their four years remains ahead.

“This is a beautiful celebration, but do not take it as a conclusion,” Rangelova said. “Commencement is the final point of one thing and the beginning of another. What I want to urge you to do today is to take the next step, and to make it intentionally and earnestly meaningful.”

“One day, you will turn back and look in wonder at how much you have grown and at how purposefully and resolutely you have made a difference.”
– Spanish Prof. Radost Rangelova

From national championship game appearances and program records to academic honors and graduate schools, the women’s lacrosse seniors leave a legacy of success and a list of standards for future generations of Gettysburgians to aspire to. Moreover, their experiences at Gettysburg have prepared them for their lives after graduation.

“Make the accomplishments that you celebrate today a stepping stone toward larger and meaningful objectives,” Rangelova said. “And I promise you that, one day, you will turn back and look in wonder at how much you have grown and at how purposefully and resolutely you have made a difference.”

Before recessing to Pennsylvania Hall to make the journey up the south stairway and through the doors on the north portico—mirroring the same trek they made as first-years four years ago—Iuliano had one final charge for the new graduates as they step out into the world: be all in.

“Dedicate yourself to being a great teammate—a ‘glue guy’—in every facet of your life,” Iuliano said. “Challenge yourself to take what you’ve learned here and apply it to something bigger than yourself, always in service to those who need you. Give fully of yourself to your relationships, to your careers, and to the causes that have been in search of your talents and drive.”

The women’s lacrosse team will travel to Medford, Massachusetts, to meet No. 4 Tufts University on Saturday, May 16, at 10:30 a.m., in the third round of the NCAA Division III Championship. The winner will meet either Williams College or Colorado College on Sunday, May 17, with a trip to the national semifinals on the line.

Join us for the Class of 2026 Commencement ceremony on May 16, 2026.

From day one, Gettysburg College students find their community on campus. The lifelong friendships formed through academics, activities, and residential living flourish beyond their four years here.

At Gettysburg College, students Do Great Work with support from the community. All across campus—in classrooms, labs, residence halls, the Dining Center, Stine Lake, athletics facilities, recital halls, and more—Gettysburgians meet new people and forge lifelong friendships. 

Connections through Campus Recreation

Experiencing his first winter in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, was an adjustment for psychology major and Argentina native Lucio Correa ’29. During the College’s winter break, Correa was fortunate to have connected with Director of Campus Recreation and Wellness Annette Hunt-Shepherd, who offered him an on-campus student employment opportunity as a fitness attendant at the John F. Jaeger Center for Athletics, Recreation, and Fitness. There, he met economics major Axel Barrantes ’26, a fellow Campus Recreation student employee from Costa Rica.

“He became like an older brother to me,” Correa said. “Over time, our friendship evolved. We became teammates, co-workers, and even fraternity brothers. Together, we celebrated victories, like winning the three-on-three intramural basketball championship, and endured close losses that mattered just as much.”

“Axel’s energy, generosity, and commitment to the Gettysburg community have shaped the way I see my role within it. Although he is graduating this year, his influence will remain with me. Inspired by his example, I accepted a position as an intramural supervisor, determined to give back to the same community that welcomed me during my most uncertain moment.”
– Lucio Correa ’29
Psychology major

Roommates through Residence Life

Ella Prieto ’26 and Riley Nolan ’26 are what you’d call the ultimate BFFs. The two met during Orientation in Fall 2022, after both signed up for a random roommate assignment. They were placed in Rice Hall, Room 330, their first year.

“We first DM’d over Instagram when the roommate names were released, scheduling a FaceTime call where we bonded over loving One Direction in middle school. I taught her that even though Gettysburg was in Sheetz territory, Wawa is infinitely better,” said Prieto, a public policy and women, gender, and sexuality studies double major from West Chester, Pennsylvania.

When Orientation arrived, Nolan, who was participating in the Garthwait Leadership Center’s (GLC) Ascent Pre-Orientation, invited Prieto to hang out with everyone she’d met through Ascent. There, they formed a bond that has lasted throughout their four years at Gettysburg.

“I cannot emphasize enough how loyal a friend she is and how consistently she will show up for the people she cares about,” said Nolan, an environmental studies and anthropology double major from Newmarket, New Hampshire.

“I came into college an emotional wreck, and Riley did not bat an eye, simply offering a shoulder to cry on at every turn. It has been so amazing to always be able to live together relatively easily.”
– Ella Prieto ’26
Public policy and women, gender, and sexuality studies double major

“Aside from simply pairing us together our first year, the Residential Education system at Gettysburg has made it easy for us to live together, from allowing us to apply as a unit to theme housing to making it easy to find housing for half a year before we went abroad.”
– Riley Nolan ’26
Environmental studies and anthropology double major

Friendship through scholarship

Whether it’s in the classrooms, at the lab bench, or through experiential learning opportunities beyond campus, Gettysburg students build bonds with others through shared academic activities. That’s how Roland Stevens ’28, a mathematics major from Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania, met Anindo Majumder ’27, a mathematics and computer science double major from Bangladesh.

“Anindo and I met through Abstract Mathematics II (MATH 315) here last spring,” Stevens said. “We shared similar interests in math, and, more recently, we’ve connected again since I am interested in the Budapest Semesters in Mathematics abroad program. We also like to talk about future courses and opportunities in math-related programs and subjects at the College.”

“MATH 315 was a difficult course,” Majumder said, “but working with Roland during the PLA sessions made it a lot better. We connected a lot during these sessions and discovered that we had a shared interest for mathematical research.”

“Anindo and I hit it off right away since we both attended many of the Exploratorium PLA sessions and worked together on lots of problems.”
– Roland Quinn Stevens ’28
Mathematics major

“Roland is interested in the Budapest Semesters in Mathematics program, and since I’ve already done that, we’ve been talking a lot about all the amazing math-related opportunities that come with the program.”
– Anindo Majumder ’27
Mathematics and computer science double major

Bonds through life’s big moments

Sarah (Pagliocco) Shehata ’15 and Katherine (Fila) Kraus ’15 first met through the Garthwait Leadership Center (GLC). They were both drawn to the GLC for the same reasons—a love of building community, connecting over shared ideas, and a drive to always make things a little better.

What began as a GLC connection turned into a real friendship. “We even reconnected while studying abroad in 2013—proof that no matter where we went, we kept finding our way back to each other,” Kraus said. “By our senior year, we were inseparable, and we closed out our time at Gettysburg with a meaningful trip to Little Rock, Arkansas. That’s still one of our favorite shared memories.”

More than 10 years later, Pagliocco and Kraus remain closely connected through Gettysburg. They’ve stood by each other as bridesmaids in one another’s weddings and now spend time together in each other’s homes, catching up with Sarah’s babies, their partners, and their pets.

“The GLC didn’t just introduce us— it gave us the foundation for a lifelong friendship, and we will always be grateful for that.”
– Katherine (Fila) Kraus ’15
English major with a writing concentration

“What started as being placed as roommates for a few weeks of Leadership Mentor training before we each left for our respective study abroad trips turned into a lifelong friendship. I am so grateful that the GLC brought Katherine and me together.”
– Sarah (Pagliocco) Shehata ’15
Intra-organizational dynamics major

At Gettysburg College, you’re never just a number. Foster connections with our community from day one.

Kate Anderson ’09 returns to Gettysburg as the Commencement speaker with a career spanning Broadway, Disney, and television. In this Q&A, she reflects on her campus experiences, creative journey, and the lessons that shaped her path from student to acclaimed songwriter.

When Kate Anderson ’09 returns to Gettysburg College as the Class of 2026 Commencement speaker on May 16, it will mark a full-circle moment for a songwriter whose work now spans Broadway, London’s West End, and major film and television projects. She brings a global creative perspective shaped by years in the industry back to the place where her artistic journey took root.

A music major and creative writing minor, Anderson immersed herself in the arts during her time on campus, performing with the College Choir, singing with the Four Scores a cappella group, and appearing in numerous theater productions, while also participating in Greek life. A native of Charlotte, North Carolina, she found both a creative home and a close-knit community that helped launch her career.

Today, Anderson is a Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle–nominated songwriter and librettist whose credits include the Apple TV series “Central Park,” Disney Animation’s “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure,” and the off-Broadway musical “Between the Lines,” as well as “The Book Thief” and “Austenland.” Alongside her longtime collaborator Elyssa Samsel, she has also contributed music to Disney projects including “Zootopia+” and “Prep & Landing,” and recently wrote the opening number for Kristen Bell at the 2026 Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Learn more about this year’s Commencement speaker.

Q: What brought you to Gettysburg College?

“I really didn’t know much about Gettysburg at first. My dad—John Anderson ’67, P’09—is an alum, so it was the first stop on a college tour he planned. But when we got to campus, I was like, ‘Oh, wait, this is really beautiful.’ I could immediately picture myself here.

“The more I explored—student groups, the arts scene, talking to current students—the more I became obsessed with Gettysburg. I applied Early Decision, and when I got in, I was all in. It just felt right from the start.”

Q: How did Gettysburg’s arts programs shape your college experience?

“It was such an exciting time to be at Gettysburg. The Conservatory was taking shape, and the Majestic Theater had just reopened after going through renovations. I was part of the first performances there, and it felt like working in a real professional theater.

“That environment made me feel like I was part of a school that was really elevating the arts. There were more opportunities, more resources, and it absolutely contributed to me eventually declaring a music major.”

Q: Which campus activities had the biggest impact on you?

“College Choir was everything for me. It felt like being on a sports team—very rigorous, very committed, and incredibly rewarding. The music we sang is still part of me. Even now, if I listen to choral music, it transports me right back.

“I was also heavily involved in theater and a cappella, and those experiences really shaped who I am creatively. They gave me both the training and the confidence that I still draw on today.”

“That environment made me feel like I was part of a school that was really elevating the arts.”
– Kate Anderson ’09

Q: Who influenced your path at Gettysburg?

“Kristen Eyssell, my first-year psychology professor, had a huge impact on me. I took as many classes with her as I could. In the arts, Sunderman Conservatory of Music Profs. Rob Natter and Kathleen Sasnett, and Adams Professor in Theatre Arts Chris Kaufman ’92 were incredibly influential.

“They encouraged me to keep pursuing the arts and really believed in me. I’ve stayed in touch with many of them, and that kind of lasting connection says everything about the Gettysburg experience.”

Q: What were some of your favorite memories outside the classroom?

“I loved the everyday campus moments—spending time at the Bullet Hole, hanging out in the CUB, and just talking with people as they passed through. That sense of community was huge for me.

“I also did intramural basketball—badly—but it was so much fun. It was never about the sport for me; it was about the group experience and just being part of something with friends.”

Q: What were the key turning points in your career after Gettysburg?

“My first job was in development at The Public Theater, which was exciting, but I wasn’t on the creative side. The real turning point was getting into the BMI Lehrman Engel Musical Theater Writing Workshop—that changed everything.

“From there, my writing partner and I were hired to work on ‘Between the Lines,’ which launched our careers. That led to opportunities with Disney and beyond. A lot of it has been persistence and just going above and beyond every chance we got.”

“I loved the everyday campus moments—spending time at the Bullet Hole, hanging out in the CUB, and just talking with people as they passed through. That sense of community was huge for me.”
– Kate Anderson ’09

Q: Do you have a favorite project you’ve worked on?

“They’ve all been meaningful in different ways, but ‘Olaf’s Frozen Adventure’ stands out. It was such a perfect combination of people and environment. Everyone was at the top of their game, and the process felt joyful and collaborative from start to finish.

“It was also one of the first times I felt truly valued for what I brought to the table. That experience gave me a lot of confidence moving forward.”

Q: What advice would you share with graduating seniors?

“I think following your passion and listening to that inner voice—what actually feeds your soul—is really important. When you do that, everything else becomes clearer, and you have more energy to give to the world.

“It’s easy to trade that in for something more practical, but I truly believe we’re all better off when we pursue what drives us. There’s a reason certain things light you up, and it’s important not to ignore that.”

Join us for the Class of 2026 Commencement Exercises on May 16!

From student-athletes and campus advocates to researchers, writers, and public servants, the Gettysburg College’s Class of 2026 reflects the impact of a liberal arts education shaped by meaningful relationships, hands-on experiences, and a strong sense of community.

The members of Gettysburg College’s Class of 2026 found countless ways to make the most of their time on campus—through research and internships, athletics and student organizations, community engagement, and leadership opportunities. Across disciplines and experiences, they embraced the College’s liberal arts approach to learning, developing the skills and relationships that will guide them long after graduation.

From student-athletes and campus advocates to aspiring health care professionals, scientists, writers, and public servants, these graduates reflect the breadth of the Gettysburg experience. Their stories highlight the impact of mentorship, hands-on learning, and meaningful community connections while demonstrating how Gettysburg prepares students to lead lives of consequence in an ever-changing world.

Ethan Acevedo ’26
Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

Ethan Acevedo ’26 built his Gettysburg College experience around service, leadership, and community engagement. A health sciences major, he served as a program coordinator in the Center for Public Service (CPS), Health Sciences peer learning associate (PLA), and Student Senate member, while also participating in the Latin American Student Association (LASA). Through these roles, he developed a strong commitment to supporting others and creating inclusive spaces on campus. “Each role pushed me to grow and think about how I can make a difference in my community,” he said. After graduation, he plans to attend medical school and pursue a career in rural primary care.

Saiman Adhikari ’26
Dumre Bazaar, Bandipur, Nepal

Saiman Adhikari ’26 embraced opportunities for leadership and mentorship throughout his time at Gettysburg College. A biochemistry and molecular biology major, he served as a leadership educator at the Garthwait Leadership Center (GLC), helping fellow students navigate programs centered on personal growth and community engagement. Adhikari studied abroad in Norway and conducted scientific research through the Cross-Disciplinary Institute at Gettysburg (X-SIG), the Knight Cancer Institute, and Johns Hopkins University. Through these leadership roles, he strengthened his communication and facilitation skills while learning how to support others in meaningful ways. “Being a leadership educator allowed me to reflect on my own experiences while helping others find their path,” he said. After graduation, he plans to work as a research associate and attend graduate school for biomedical science.

Denae Bowen ’26
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Denae Bowen ’26 found her voice at Gettysburg College through leadership, advocacy, and storytelling. As president of the Black Student Union (BSU) and the Anti-Racist Collective, she helped create opportunities for dialogue, connection, and community-building across campus. Bowen paired that work with her studies as an English major with a writing concentration, using writing as a way to explore identity and expression. “Being part of BSU allowed me to connect with others and grow into a stronger leader,” she said. After graduation, Bowen looks forward to getting her CNA certification and working full-time for a year before going to cosmetology school.

Julie Breedveld ’26
Wayne, Pennsylvania

Julie Breedveld explored the intersection of finance, leadership, and experiential learning during her time at Gettysburg College. A business, organizations, and management major with an economics minor, she strengthened her analytical and communication skills through finance coursework, campus involvement, and a Vanguard Business Leadership Internship. Breedveld also found community through Chi Omega and the women’s lacrosse program. “Learning how to analyze complex problems, collaborate with diverse teams, and make disciplined decisions will shape how I approach my future career in finance,” she said. After graduation, Breedveld will continue with Vanguard through its two-year Accelerated Career Development Program.

Malachi Briscoe ’26
California, Maryland

Malachi Briscoe ’26 built his Gettysburg College experience through leadership across athletics, campus employment, and student organizations. A business, organizations, and management major, he served as a coordinator at the College’s fitness center, helping manage schedules and daily operations. Briscoe also helped lead the men’s basketball team to its first Centennial Conference championship in 17 years and served as president of the Gettysburg College Fashion Initiative. These experiences strengthened his leadership and communication skills. “Working in different roles on campus helped me learn how to manage responsibility in real time,” he says. After graduation, Briscoe will return to Everest Global—where he interned last summer—to work as an associate underwriter at its U.S. headquarters in Warren, New Jersey.

Marisa Conners ’26
Belle Mead, New Jersey

Marisa Conners ’26 combined academic focus with deep campus involvement and civic engagement during her time at Gettysburg College. A public policy and women, gender, and sexuality studies major, she participated in color guard with the Bullets Marching Band. She served as an It’s On Us Fellow and member of the Hillel Executive Board. She also found community through the Half Sole Dance Company and Student Disability Network. “Gettysburg has given me the chance to explore issues I care about and see how change happens,” she said. Conners plans to continue her work in public service after graduation through an internship with New Jersey State Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman.

Ana Carolina Delena Cury ’26
São Paulo, Brazil

A global perspective and a passion for interdisciplinary learning shaped Ana Carolina Delena Cury’s ’26 Gettysburg College experience. An economics and Spanish major with a minor in data science, she embraced the College’s liberal arts approach to connect ideas across cultures and academic fields. Through her coursework and leadership roles in Residential Education, Alpha Delta Pi, and Student Senate, she strengthened her adaptability and intercultural fluency. “Gettysburg gave me the opportunity to challenge myself in different areas and grow in ways I never expected,” she said. After graduation, she plans to return to Bradesco Bank in Miami, Florida—where she held an internship during her junior year—and continue gaining experience in the finance industry.

Julia Daly ’26
McLean, Virginia

Julia Daly ’26 balanced academic achievement with elite athletic success during her time at Gettysburg College. A business major with minors in economics and education, she became one of the most accomplished players in the history of the women’s lacrosse program, earning All-American honors, Centennial Conference Attacker of the Year, and finishing as the program’s all-time leader in goals scored. Off the field, she held leadership roles in Chi Omega sorority, worked in the athletics equipment room and athletics training room, and studied abroad in France. “My coaches made a huge impact on my experience and pushed me to be my best both on and off the field,” she said. After graduation, Daly plans to pursue a career in business.

Maximillion Ferguson ’26
Dix Hills, New York

Maximillion Ferguson ’26 developed a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork through his involvement in Gettysburg College athletics. A political science major, he worked in the athletic equipment room, supporting teams behind the scenes and helping ensure practices and competitions ran smoothly. He was also a staff writer for The Gettysburgian, a DJ at the campus radio station, and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. Through these experiences, Ferguson learned the importance of preparation, organization, and consistency. “Working in equipment operations showed me how much preparation and attention to detail go into every game,” he said. After graduation, Ferguson plans to attend law school and pursue a career in the legal field.

Conor Grubb ’26
Hummelstown, Pennsylvania

Conor Grubb ’26 spent his four years at Gettysburg College actively engaged in student leadership and campus advocacy. A chemistry major, he served in Student Senate all four years, working alongside peers and administrators to represent student voices and improve campus life. Grubb was also a member of Sceptical Chymists and the German Club, worked as a teaching assistant in Chemistry, and studied abroad in Germany. Through these experiences, he strengthened his communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. “Being part of Student Senate gave me the opportunity to make a real impact on campus,” he said. Grubb credits his involvement with helping him better understand collaboration and service. After graduation, he looks forward to applying the skills he developed at Gettysburg toward a career in chemistry.

Cassidy Haines ’26
Ocean City, New Jersey

For Cassidy Haines ’26, Gettysburg College became a place to grow creatively, academically, and personally. An English major with a writing concentration, she developed her voice through coursework and collaborative writing environments while building meaningful connections with classmates and friends. “Some of my favorite memories are the late nights spent working and laughing with friends,” she said. Haines was a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma—where she served a term as president—and was the magazine editor for The Gettysburgian. She credits Gettysburg’s close-knit community with encouraging her growth as both a writer and collaborator. After graduation, she plans to work in communications or college advancement before pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing.

Will Hedley ’26
Charlotte, North Carolina

Will Hedley ’26 combined academic success with high-level athletic achievement and professional experience during his time at Gettysburg College. An economics major, he earned All-American honors as a defenseman on the men’s lacrosse team while helping lead the Bullets to three NCAA Division III playoff appearances and a Centennial Conference championship in 2026. Off the field, Hedley participated in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and completed internships that connected classroom learning with real-world business experience. “My internships gave me a clearer sense of how I can use what I’ve learned beyond the classroom,” he said. After graduation, he will work for a family office land development firm in Fort Worth, Texas.

Rachel Herr ’26
Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Rachel Herr ’26 used her time at Gettysburg College to build a strong foundation for a career in public service. A public policy and Spanish double major, she gained hands-on experience working with the Public Policy Department, connecting classroom learning with real-world policy work. Herr also traveled out of the country for the first time as a student at Gettysburg, participating in immersion trips to Morocco and Costa Rica with the Center for Public Service and studying abroad in Spain. Those opportunities helped her strengthen her adaptability and deepen her understanding of government and advocacy. “Gettysburg has given me opportunities to apply what I’ve learned in meaningful, real-world ways,” she said. Herr credits her academic and professional experiences with preparing her for the next step in her career. After graduation, she plans to work in the Pennsylvania state government before obtaining a master’s degree in public administration.

Will Hetzel ’26
Paoli, Pennsylvania

Will Hetzel ’26 embraced a multidisciplinary college experience that blended academics, the arts, and campus involvement. An environmental science major, he participated in the Bullets Marching Band and Symphony Band, was president of Sigma Nu, and worked as an Admissions tour guide. Through these experiences, Hetzel developed teamwork, adaptability, and a strong sense of community. “Being involved in so many different areas helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect,” he said. He credits his campus involvement with broadening both his perspective and interests during his four years at Gettysburg. After graduation, Hetzel plans to use his skills in GIS and spatial analysis to help with land planning and management in the environmental field.

Dejah Hill ’26
Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Dejah Hill ’26 demonstrated initiative and leadership throughout her time at Gettysburg College by founding and leading Minorities in STEM. A health sciences and biology double major, she created a space that fostered representation, support, and connection for students in the sciences. Through this work and additional leadership roles in Biology and Student Senate, Hill developed confidence, organizational skills, and a commitment to helping others succeed. “Starting something of my own pushed me outside my comfort zone and showed me what I’m capable of,” she said. After graduation, she plans to attend dental school and continue her path in health care.

Mary Huegel ’26
Marlboro, New Jersey

Mary Huegel ’26 excelled as a student-athlete during her time at Gettysburg College. A biochemistry and molecular biology major, she earned Academic All-American and All-American honors as a member of the volleyball team while also serving as a coordinator in the Jaeger Center for Athletics, Recreation, and Fitness, vice president of Sceptical Chymists, a teaching assistant in Chemistry, and a residential assistant. Huegel also conducted research as part of the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute at Gettysburg (X-SIG). Through athletics and academics, Huegel developed discipline, resilience, and teamwork skills that prepared her for future opportunities. “Being part of a team taught me how to lead and support others while pushing myself to improve,” she said. After graduation, she will continue her research journey at the National Institutes of Health for the next two years before applying to medical school.

Alfredo Roman Jordan ’26
Madrid, Spain

Alfredo Roman Jordan ’26 combined academic rigor with campus leadership throughout his time at Gettysburg College. A physics major, he served as student body president, working closely with students, faculty, and administrators to advocate for initiatives that strengthened campus life and fostered community dialogue. Jordan also conducted research for three summers through the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute (X-SIG) and was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha. Through his leadership experiences, Jordan developed strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills while balancing the demands of a challenging academic program. “Serving in this role taught me how to listen, lead, and create meaningful change,” he said. After graduation, he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in physics and continue his passion for research.

Adib Kabir ’26
Dhaka, Bangladesh

Adib Kabir ’26 combined academic excellence with hands-on scientific research during his time at Gettysburg College. A physics major, Kabir was recognized nationally as a Rossing Physics Scholar for his work and potential in the field, an honor awarded to outstanding undergraduate physics students from colleges and universities across the country. Through research opportunities and close faculty mentorship, he deepened his passion for problem-solving and discovery while strengthening his analytical and technical skills. “Research helped me see physics as a collaborative process built on curiosity and persistence,” he said. Kabir credits Gettysburg’s supportive academic environment with preparing him for future scientific work. After graduation, he plans to continue his studies and pursue a career in physics research.

Athena Komitas ’26
Belmar, New Jersey

Athena Komitas ’26 centered her Gettysburg College experience on mentorship and academic support. As a peer learning associate for microbiology and introductory biology, she worked closely with students to reinforce challenging concepts and build confidence in STEM courses. A health sciences major, Komitas developed strong communication and teaching skills while helping others succeed. “Being a PLA helped me grow more confident in my ability to explain and connect with others,” she said. Komitas held leadership roles with Alpha Delta Pi, including vice president of operations, served as vice president of the ski club, sang in the choir, and worked as a student athletic trainer. After graduation, Komitas plans to work as a patient care technician at Jersey Shore University Medical Center while applying to PA school.

Leah Nath ’26
Ellicott City, Maryland

Leah Nath ’26 embraced the interdisciplinary opportunities at Gettysburg College to explore her passions for environmental studies, writing, and creative expression. An environmental studies major with a writing minor, Nath immersed herself in campus life through research, creative projects, and experiential learning opportunities that connected science and storytelling. Her work has included environmental writing, artistic exploration, and field research experiences, all of which have deepened her understanding of the natural world. “Gettysburg became a place where I could explore so many different interests and see how they connect,” she said. After graduation, she plans to pursue graduate study and a career in science communication through the arts and humanities.

Riley Nolan ’26
Newmarket, New Hampshire

Riley Nolan ’26 embraced experiential learning and outdoor leadership throughout her time at Gettysburg College. An anthropology and environmental studies major, she served as a leadership educator at the Garthwait Leadership Center (GLC), guiding outdoor trips that encouraged resilience, teamwork, and connection with nature. Nolan also studied abroad in Norway and participated in College programs that allowed her to explore Chile, Iceland, Mexico, and Colorado. Through these experiences, Nolan strengthened her leadership skills while helping others grow outside the classroom. “Leading trips helped me grow more confident in myself and my ability to support others,” she said. After graduation, she will work with the Appalachian Mountain Club as a professional trail crew member on trail restoration projects in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Ella Prieto ’26
West Chester, Pennsylvania

Ella Prieto ’26 built community while developing her voice as a student leader and writer at Gettysburg College. As a public policy and women, gender, and sexuality studies major with a writing minor, she served as editor-in-chief of The Gettysburgian, helping guide campus storytelling and conversation. Prieto also found connection through leadership roles in Greek life as a member of Alpha Omicron Pi, president of the Panhellenic Council, and president of the Order of Omega. “Gettysburg introduced me to communities that challenged and supported me in the best ways,” she said. Prieto learned the power of resiliency and the importance of intercultural fluency while studying abroad in Germany. After graduation, Prieto plans to work in student services, helping others find the same sense of belonging she experienced.

Bishruti Rijal ’26
Kathmandu, Nepal

Bishruti (Bish) Rijal ’26 was selected to represent the Class of 2026 as the student speaker during Commencement for the Class of 2026. A biology major and neuroscience minor, Rijal studied abroad in Budapest, Hungary, during her junior year. She served as a residence coordinator (RC) and worked for the Center for Global Education (CGE). Her research experience includes serving as a research assistant in the Psychology Department and the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute at Gettysburg (X-SIG). Rijal has also provided campus tours through the Office of Admissions and engaged in programming through the Center for Public Service, Garthwait Leadership Center, and the Eisenhower Institute. She was also a member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. “I found so much of my community at Gettysburg,” she said. “I wish we had more Stoles of Gratitude because there are so many people here I’m grateful for.” Rijal is currently applying for jobs in the research tech industry, where she hopes to work in translational medicine or neurogenetics.

Emma Smith ’26
Westport, Connecticut

Emma Smith ’26 developed strong leadership skills and meaningful campus connections during her time at Gettysburg College. A psychology major, she served as president of Alpha Omicron Pi and was actively involved in the Panhellenic Council, helping foster collaboration and community within Greek life. Through these leadership roles, Smith strengthened her confidence, communication skills, and ability to support others. “Getting involved on campus helped me step outside my comfort zone and connect with people in new ways,” she said. Smith credits her campus involvement with shaping her approach to leadership and personal growth as she prepares for her next steps after graduation.

Nicole Watson ’26
West Chester, Pennsylvania

Nicole Watson ’26 embraced global learning and interdisciplinary study throughout her time at Gettysburg College. An anthropology and international and global studies major, she explored cultural and political issues while also working in the Center for Student Success, where she supported fellow students in their academic journeys. Watson was also a member of Alpha Delta Pi, studied abroad in France, and conducted archaeological excavations in Belize. Through these experiences, Watson strengthened her ability to think critically and engage with different perspectives. “Gettysburg has challenged me to think critically about the world and my place in it,” she said. After graduation, she will attend the Geneva Graduate Institute in Geneva, Switzerland, to pursue a master’s degree in international and development studies.

Michael Zrelak ’26
Monroe, New York

Michael Zrelak ’26 developed leadership, discipline, and resilience through his involvement in athletics and campus organizations at Gettysburg College. A health sciences major, he was a two-time All-Centennial Conference First Team selection at running back and rushed for over 1,000 yards while serving as team captain in his final season. Off the field, Zrelak expanded his leadership roles as vice president and president of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Through these experiences, Zrelak strengthened his communication skills and learned the importance of leading by example. “Being part of a team taught me how to lead by example and stay focused on long-term goals,” he said. After graduation, he plans to attend optometry school.

]]> Mon, 11 May 2026 12:00:00 EDT https://www.gettysburg.edu/news/stories?id=9fc640de-fe9a-4deb-99cd-55fb52223c13 https://www.gettysburg.edu/news/stories?id=9fc640de-fe9a-4deb-99cd-55fb52223c13

Gettysburg College will honor alumni for outstanding achievement and service during Spring Honors Day and Reunion Weekend. Recipients represent diverse fields and lasting impact, exemplifying the College’s mission through professional excellence, leadership, and continued engagement with the Gettysburg community.

Gettysburg College will honor a distinguished group of alumni whose professional achievements, leadership, and service reflect the enduring impact of a Gettysburg education. This year’s award recipients have made meaningful contributions across diverse fields, including medicine, business, law, education, public service, and community advocacy, while maintaining strong and lasting ties to the College.

The Distinguished Alumni Award winners will be recognized during Spring Honors Day at Christ Chapel on Friday, May 15, at 1:30 p.m. The remaining alumni award recipients—including honorees for career achievement, service, and meritorious contributions—will be celebrated during Reunion Weekend on Saturday, May 30, at 10:30 a.m. as part of the President’s Address and Alumni Awards ceremony in the College Union Building (CUB) Ballroom.

Together, these alumni exemplify Gettysburg College’s mission to educate individuals who lead lives of impact, engagement, and service.

Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients

Blase A. Carabello ’69

Blase Carabello ’69 is a nationally and internationally recognized cardiologist whose work has shaped modern understanding and treatment of heart valve disease. Over a distinguished career spanning clinical practice, research, and academic leadership, he authored more than 500 scientific publications. Carabello has helped define cardiovascular care standards through 25 years on the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association guideline committees.

He served 29 years with the Veterans Affairs (VA) system. Carabello has also held major leadership roles, including chief of medicine at the Michael E. DeBakey Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center and chief of cardiology at East Carolina University. His expertise has also informed national policy through service on an FDA advisory board.

A biology major at Gettysburg, Carabello was president of Sigma Chi. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to advancing medicine and mentoring future physicians, earning him numerous honors, including the ACC Distinguished Scientist Award and multiple lifetime achievement recognitions.

Delma Rivera-Lytle ’80

Delma Rivera-Lytle ’80 has dedicated her career to advancing educational equity, cultural inclusion, and community leadership in York, Pennsylvania. As a diversity education specialist for Central York School District, she spent nearly two decades fostering inclusive learning environments for students and families. Her broader impact includes leadership roles with numerous civic organizations and service as a commissioner for the Pennsylvania Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs.

A champion for the Latino community, she helped strengthen cross-cultural connections through initiatives like the York–Aguadilla sister city partnership and founded the Miss Latina of York program. Her humanitarian efforts have earned widespread recognition, including national honors and the Puerto Rico Governor’s Medal of Excellence.

At Gettysburg, Rivera-Lytle studied Spanish and sociology and was active in student life. She remains closely connected as an engaged alumna, continuing to support students and strengthen community ties.

Rodney S. Tosten ’85

Rodney Tosten ’85 has devoted his career to advancing technology and education at Gettysburg College, leaving a lasting institutional impact. Returning to the faculty in 1990, he founded the College’s Computer Science Department and served as its first chair. As vice president for information technology, he led transformative initiatives that modernized campus infrastructure, expanded digital learning, and supported new academic programs, including online and hybrid offerings.

His leadership helped position the College to adapt to rapid technological change while enhancing the student and faculty experience. Beyond campus, he has contributed to regional workforce development through advisory roles in technology education.

A mathematics major and student leader at Gettysburg, Tosten has remained deeply engaged as an alumnus, supporting College initiatives and mentoring future leaders. His career reflects a sustained commitment to innovation, collaboration, and the educational mission of Gettysburg College.

Charles Widger ’67

Charles Widger ’67 is an entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist whose leadership has shaped the financial services industry and expanded access to mental health care and education. As founder of Brinker Capital, he built a nationally recognized investment firm managing more than $100 billion in assets, and he now leads East Bay Merchant Partners. He is also a New York Times bestselling co-author and former chair emeritus of the Money Management Institute.

Widger’s philanthropic impact, through the Widger Family Foundation, focuses on innovation in mental health, education, and economic development, including co-founding Clark’s Manor, a residential community for individuals with chronic mental illness.

At Gettysburg, Widger was a history major, student leader, and athlete. As an alumnus, he served on the College’s Board of Trustees—including as chair—and has played a transformative role in advancing Gettysburg’s strategic initiatives and campus development.

Young Alumni Achievement Award for Career Development

Rachel Rutter ’11

Rachel Rutter ’11 is the founder and executive director of Project Libertad, a nonprofit that provides legal services and holistic support to immigrant youth. A summa cum laude Gettysburg graduate and Phi Beta Kappa member, she earned her J.D. from Drexel and is a practicing immigration attorney. Through Project Libertad, she partners with Gettysburg to create internship and engagement opportunities for students. Her work has earned national recognition, including CNN Heroes and L’Oréal Women of Worth honors. Her leadership advances justice, access, and opportunity for vulnerable communities.

Joshua Stewart ’11

Joshua Stewart ’11 is the senior director of federal policy and advocacy at Fahe, advancing national policy on affordable housing and economic development across Appalachia. With more than a decade of experience, his work addresses poverty and homelessness through federal legislation and advocacy. Previously, he led policy initiatives at the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, helping pass landmark legislation that expanded services for veterans and established a permanent VA center. He holds a master’s degree in historical archaeology and focuses on the history of poverty and social support systems.

Young Alumni Achievement Award for Service

Anna Baldasarre ’14

Anna Baldasarre ’14 is the associate director of annual giving marketing at Franklin & Marshall College and a dedicated Gettysburg volunteer leader. As a student, she held numerous leadership roles and received top honors, including the Linnaean Award. As an alumna, she has served on the Communications and Marketing Advisory Committee, BOLD Council (as chair), and as an ex officio trustee, while supporting Reunion efforts and mentorship. Active in professional and community organizations, she has been recognized for her leadership in higher education and volunteer service.

Rebecca Borovsky ’16

Rebecca Borovsky ’16 is the senior director of operations at Junior Achievement of Greater Washington, advancing educational access and workforce readiness. A Phi Beta Kappa graduate, she was deeply engaged in student leadership at Gettysburg. As an alumna, she has continued her service through the BOLD Council, an ex-officio role on the Alumni Board, career externships, and campus programs, while supporting Reunion efforts. Her sustained engagement reflects a strong commitment to mentorship, leadership development, and strengthening connections between Gettysburg and its alumni community.

Meritorious Service Awards

Laurie A. Baty ’76

Laurie A. Baty ’76 has demonstrated lifelong service to Gettysburg College through leadership, philanthropy, and volunteerism. As a student, she was a Phi Beta Kappa member, Orientation leader, and library staff member. As an alumna, she served on the Alumni Board where she sat on multiple committees, supported regional clubs, led Reunion efforts, and contributed to academic life through exhibits and teaching. A museum director in Washington, D.C., she also donated her professional daguerreotype collection to the College. Her sustained engagement reflects a deep commitment to enriching the Gettysburg community.

Jeffrey Siegfried ’81, P’14

Jeffrey Siegfried ’81, P’14 has provided exceptional leadership and service to Gettysburg College through governance, philanthropy, and student mentorship. A Trustee from 2013–2025 and now a trustee emeritus, he served as board secretary, chaired the Governance and Nominating Committee, and contributed to the Presidential Search Committee. Committed to student success, he has supported internships, alumni networking, and the Siegfried Fellowship Program. A business administration graduate, he is now CEO of OmniCable Corporation. His long-term leadership has strengthened the College and expanded opportunities for students and alumni.

Celebrate the accomplishments of our alumni award winners by joining us at Reunion Weekend!

Supported by courage, conviction, and community, Bishruti Rijal ’26 turns four years of a Gettysburg College education into a launchpad for her future.

When Gettysburg College Commencement student speaker Bishruti (Bish) Rijal ’26 addresses the Class of 2026 on May 16, she’ll be in the company of her campus family—friends, classmates, faculty, and staff who have supported her on her college journey.

As an international student from Kathmandu, Nepal, Rijal took every opportunity Gettysburg offered her and turned them into ways to help others, think deeply, and grow in ways unimaginable to her four years ago.

Making the most of her time at Gettysburg, Rijal has served as a residence coordinator (RC), worked for the Center for Global Education (CGE), spent time as a research assistant in the Psychology Department, participated in summer research through the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute at Gettysburg (X-SIG), provided campus tours through the Office of Admissions, and engaged in programming through the Center for Public Service, Garthwait Leadership Center, and the Eisenhower Institute. She is also a member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority.

Rijal will graduate from Gettysburg with a degree in biology and a minor in neuroscience.

Before she steps behind the podium to deliver her Commencement speech, Rijal took time to acknowledge the people and the place that will forever be a part of her life.

Q: Why did you choose to attend Gettysburg College?

“I liked Gettysburg for its research opportunities. When I was applying, my counselor told me there are a lot of students from Nepal at Gettysburg. ‘There’s already a community of students that you can be a part of as soon as you get there,’ she said. I found so much of my community at Gettysburg.

“I felt the gravity of where I was during the First-Year Walk when we heard the Gettysburg Address. Everyone was saying to us that you are at a consequential place. I realized at the time the history that was here.”

Q: What’s your favorite spot to hang out on campus?

“I have a lot of memories around Stine Lake. I lived in Stine Hall my first year, so every time I heard music, I would go out to see what’s going on. I remember the first time I felt I had friends on campus. We had a laser tag event for first-years. Stine Lake is also where I enjoyed s’mores. We have a group that always gets together, and that’s where it got started.

“Stine Lake is also the place where I sat and contemplated life a lot of the time. When the weather was nice, it was a place where I could sit outside, and my friends and I would go and hang out. It brings people together, and it gives the College a vibe when the weather is nice and everyone is out, and people are playing Frisbee and flying kites.”

Q: What were some of your favorite campus activities?

“Definitely working for Res Ed. I have connected with so many people here through it. It has changed my view of leadership. My upper-class RCs passed down the leadership legacy to me, and seeing myself do that with my own staff has been a full-circle moment.

“I loved going abroad to Budapest, Hungary, and working for CGE. I love talking about Gettysburg, so being an Admissions tour guide was one of my favorite things to do. It came with a lot of opportunity to connect to people and share what I love about the College.

“I also enjoyed getting to do research here and loved being in the labs. My professors, Biology Prof. Kazuo Hiraizumi and Psychology Prof. Sara Keefer, were all very encouraging.”

“I wish we had more Stoles of Gratitude because there are so many people I’m grateful for.”
– Bishruti (Bish) Rijal ’26

Q: Who were some of the people who supported you during your college journey?

“If I looked down my timeline, the first group of people would be International Student Services Director Brad Lancaster, Assistant Director of International Student Services Bekah Hurwitz, and Program Coordinator Carla Pavlick. They’ve always been a quiet support system and really impacted my first year.

“Assistant Director of Residential Education Brooke Gutschick ’17 and my Res Ed staff have been supportive ever since I’ve been here, but especially as a staff member. Stephanie Rye from CGE, Antonio Mora Calderon from The Bullet Hole, Bonnie Plank (the housekeeper in Stine Hall), my professors, my friends, my parents, and my sister—I wish we had more Stoles of Gratitude because there are so many people I’m grateful for.”

Q: What is the biggest life lesson you learned at Gettysburg?

“Considering how I was feeling my first year—uncertain and not knowing where I wanted to go—the biggest thing I learned is that I will figure it out, and I don’t have to do it alone.

“I approach things now with so much excitement. That’s the only way you can go forth through uncertainty.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

“I’m hoping to spend a few days with my parents and spend time with my friends. I’m also currently applying for research tech jobs in translational medicine or neurogenetics.

“There are a lot of things that my friends and I want to do before graduating—we have to get the last of the Servo cookies before graduation, take a picture of my first-year residence hall, and go around to places in town I won’t be able to see after graduation, including Mr. G’s for ice cream one last time!”

For more information about Commencement for the Class of 2026, including the weekend’s schedule, please visit the Commencement webpage.

Gettysburg College’s political science career course integrates academics with hands-on professional development, equipping students with practical skills, confidence, and connections through collaboration with the Center for Career Engagement.

Gettysburg College is expanding career-preparation opportunities through an innovative course in the Political Science Department that connects academic learning with real-world professional development. Taught by Chair Caroline Hartzell in collaboration with the Center for Career Engagement (CCE), the class offering reflects the Gettysburg Approach—combining rigorous academics with hands-on experiences that prepare students for meaningful careers.

Designed as a workshop-style course, Professionalization in Political Science (POL 456) helps students identify career goals, develop professional skills, and build the tools needed to navigate life after graduation. From networking and interviewing to crafting resumes, cover letters, and professional portfolios, students engage in practical exercises that translate directly to the job market.

“This course is really about ensuring our political science majors are prepared to go into the job market being able to emphasize the skills they’ve acquired through their liberal arts education,” Hartzell said. “We’re making use of everything we have here—our alumni, our staff, and the different skill sets across campus—to give students a fuller picture of what comes next.”

“The most impactful lesson of this course is that professional development is a lifelong journey. I feel much more prepared for what comes next.”
– Bennett Freeman ’26

That collaboration is central to the course’s design. CCE staff worked alongside Hartzell to build a structured learning progression that helps students gain confidence over time.

“This is one of the first times we’ve embedded career development directly into an academic course for credit,” said Jillian Bradley, associate director of employer engagement and marketing in CCE. “We were intentional about creating building blocks—starting with strengths and values, then moving into résumés, interviews, and networking.”

Throughout the semester, students apply what they learn immediately—connecting with alumni, participating in mock interviews, and developing their professional presence online. For Bradley, the long-term value of those experiences is key.

“We want students to leave with a toolkit they can use for life,” she said. “Whether they’re applying for their first job or making a career change years down the road, they’ll have the skills and confidence to take that next step.”

For students, that hands-on approach is what makes the course stand out. Bennett Freeman ’26, a political science major from Columbia, Maryland, said the course has helped him better understand his career path and how to move forward. Through alumni connections and practical exercises, he gained insights he would not have encountered in a traditional classroom.

“In other courses, I certainly learned a lot, and by the end of the semester, I might be applying that knowledge in a final paper or project,” said Freeman, who plans to attend law school after gaining experience in the legal field. “With this particular political science course, every week would feature a new module on how to network or present a better online presence, and then I would go home and do those things right away.”

Madisyn Freedman ’27, a political science major from Poughquag, New York, said the course pushed her to step outside her comfort zone and build confidence.

“I went into this class not even having a LinkedIn account and had never spoken to alumni,” Freedman said. “Now I’m on LinkedIn, Handshake, and connectGettysburg. In the past week, I have had meetings with two alumni! This is something I never would have been able to do if not for this class and Prof. Hartzell.”

The impact of the course in its first year also points to future possibilities. Faculty and career advisors see potential for similar collaborations in other departments, expanding access to career-focused learning across the College and reinforcing the value of a liberal arts education in preparing students for a wide range of careers.

“The most impactful lesson of this course is that professional development is a lifelong journey,” Freeman said. “I feel much more prepared for what comes next.”

Develop your unique career path with support from the Center for Career Engagement.