Point Park University Celebrates 66th Commencement and Hooding Ceremonies, Welcoming Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O'Connor as Featured Commencement Speaker Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Point Park University celebrated the graduation of undergraduate and graduate students in two ceremonies on Friday, May 8, at the Petersen Events Center at the University of Pittsburgh.
Graduate Hooding Ceremony
During the Graduate Hooding Ceremony, the university conferred 242 master's degrees and 18 doctoral degrees.
Tanika Harris, who received a Master's in Business Administration, was selected as the speaker. A mother and grandmother, Harris is the managing director and chief impact officer at Catapult Greater Pittsburgh, where she focuses on economic mobility initiatives across the Pittsburgh region.
In her speech, Harris connected her fellow graduates' experience with the city of Pittsburgh, "a place known for reinvention." "This city transformed itself, and in many ways, so did we," Harris said.
Harris encouraged those sitting in the audience to take the next step they've been considering, whether it be education or some other new experience: "If there is something you have been thinking about, this is your invitation. Do the thing. Do it even if you feel unsure. Do it even if you feel a little scared. Do it for yourself. Because the journey you are imagining may be closer than you think."
Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony
The university conferred 630 bachelor's degrees at Undergraduate Commencement.
In his charge to the graduates, President Chris Brussalis encouraged students to embrace continuous learning, make a meaningful difference and maintain their integrity.
"The most successful individuals in our rapidly changing world are those who remain curious, who are willing to unlearn and relearn, and who see every experience as an opportunity for growth," Brussalis said.
On a similar theme, he reminded students that their Point Park education had well-prepared them for the evolving world: "The challenges ahead are significant — technological disruption, global economic changes and cultural shifts. But I look at you, and I see hope. I see problem-solvers, creators and leaders who are not intimidated by complexity, but rather energized by it."
Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O'Connor gave the keynote address. He has served his hometown in elected office since 2012 as City Councilman for District 5 for a decade, and then as the Allegheny County Controller. He was elected mayor in 2025.
O'Connor recognized the important role that the Point Park community plays in Downtown Pittsburgh, putting on world-class productions, interning at businesses and helping prepare the city for the recent NFL draft. Going to Point Park was "the right decision," he told the graduates.
"Today, you are graduating not just with a degree, but ready to build what comes next," said O'Connor. "Pittsburgh is a place of innovation, creativity, community and opportunity. You have helped us write our story in real time, and our city is better because of you. Across industries and across generations, Pittsburgh has been built by people who once sat in the very seats that you are sitting in today. As your mayor, I want you to know that you are the next generation of artists, creators, entrepreneurs, small business owners and leaders. We need you, and we want your voice to define what comes next to Pittsburgh."
Devyn Amigh, who received a Broadcasting degree, was the student speaker. Amigh served as a resident educator in student life, and senior resident director Cindy Pietrakowski said of her: "Devyn shows up for others, uplifts her peers and handles challenges with grace and perseverance. She embodies the kind of excellence that reflects positively on the entire university community."
In her speech, Amigh encouraged her fellow graduates to savor the moment of graduation and not be worried about what is coming next. "Life is a constant rush of fleeting moments that we don't realize we will miss until it's already over," Amigh said. "Worry less about 'What's next?' and embrace 'What is now.'"
Three faculty members were given the Distinguished Teaching Award. Professors were nominated by students, staff and faculty, and the winners were selected by members of the Campus Academic Resources Committee. At the ceremony, Matthew Pascal, Ph.D. announced the winners: full-time professors Christal Edmunds, Ph.D. and Laura Frost, Ph.D., and part-time professor Stephanie Gallagher. The winners will receive a monetary award.
President Brussalis honored the inaugural recipients of the President's Distinguished Achievement Awards, which recognize people who have contributed significantly to the Point Park University Community.
The Green Citation, awarded to distinguished individuals whose exemplary service to Point Park reflects remarkable dedication and lasting impact, was given to Dave Duncan and Ed Haberle.
The Gold Citation, awarded to individuals whose outstanding professional or volunteer achievements bring distinction and honor to Point Park, was given to Anne Lewis and Don Kelly.
The Presidential Medal of Honor, Point Park’s highest tribute — a recognition of those whose vision, integrity and lifelong devotion to excellence embody the very spirit of the institution — was awarded to Jerry McGinnis (posthumously) and Tom Golonski.
After turning their tassels, the graduates were officially welcomed into the Alumni Association by Veronika Panagiotou from the Alumni Board of Directors.
Hooding and Commencement Highlight Video
