Commencement
Learn about the joyful conclusion to the Muhlenberg journey.
Commencement is the culmination of the Muhlenberg College experience.
Each year, we honor and celebrate the academic achievements of our undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education students as they close their Muhlenberg College chapter and take the first steps on the journey that awaits them next.
2026 Commencement Ceremony
Sunday, May 17 at 10 a.m.
PPL Center in Allentown, PA
Muhlenberg College is proud to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026.
Please join us via livestream starting at 9:45 a.m. on Sunday, May 17.
To view a detailed program and the list of graduates from Muhlenberg’s 2026 commencement ceremony, visit muhlenberg.edu/class of2026.
Rajiv Vinnakota — a pioneering social entrepreneur and president of the Institute for Citizens & Scholars, as well as leader of the institute’s College Presidents for Civic Preparedness coalition — will deliver the keynote address at the Muhlenberg College’s commencement ceremony, Sunday, May 17, at 10 a.m. at the PPL Center in Allentown.
Vinnakota, a national leader in civic engagement and renewal, will be awarded an honorary degree alongside two other distinguished leaders: Kassie Hilgert, president and CEO of ArtsQuest, and Zachary Mannheimer ’99, founder and board chair of Alquist 3D.
“We are honored to welcome these three visionaries to the Muhlenberg community,” said Muhlenberg President Kathleen Harring, Ph.D. “Their collective work in civic preparedness, regional economic revitalization through the arts, and innovative solutions to the national housing crisis embodies the liberal arts spirit of leadership and service. We look forward to the inspiration they will provide our Class of 2026.”
About the Honorees
Rajiv Vinnakota has dedicated his life to strengthening civic life in America by sparking young people to create bold, fresh solutions to civic problems – a charge that continues in his role as president of the Institute for Citizens & Scholars.
A graduate of Princeton University, he co-founded the nation’s first network of public, college-preparatory boarding schools (the SEED Foundation), and previously served as Executive Vice-President of the Aspen Institute. He is a frequent contributor to national media outlets including NPR, The Hill, and the Chronicle of Higher Education. His work continues to focus on building “civic learning ecosystems” to empower Gen Z and future generations.
Kassie Hilgert is the president and chief executive officer of ArtsQuest, one of Pennsylvania’s largest nonprofit arts organizations. Under her leadership, ArtsQuest presents more than 4,000 annual programs — nearly a third of which are free to the public — and serves as a primary engine for regional economic development. Hilgert is currently spearheading the $78 million “Re-Imagine That!” capital campaign to expand the organization’s footprint. A graduate of Penn State University, she is a fixture in Lehigh Valley leadership, serving on boards for the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation and Discover Lehigh Valley.
A Muhlenberg alumnus who double-majored in theatre and philosophy, Zachary Mannheimer ’99 is the founder and board chair of Alquist 3D. His company gained national acclaim for printing the first owner-occupied 3D-printed home in America, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity. Before revolutionizing the construction industry, Mannheimer founded the Des Moines Social Club and Atlas Community Studios, focusing on creative placemaking and affordable housing. Reflecting on his journey from the stage to 3D printing, Mannheimer credits his Muhlenberg education for his adaptability: “If you had asked me when I graduated Muhlenberg if I would be 3D printing housing in rural Colorado, I would’ve said, ‘You’re crazy.’ Doing a major like theatre, especially at a small school like Muhlenberg, prepares you for every possible outcome life can throw at you.”
2026 Student Speakers
Vishmitha Dsouza ’26
BACHELOR’S IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION
Kristin Heiss-Erbick ’24 G’26
MASTER’S IN ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP
About Commencement
Muhlenberg’s commencement ceremony is a joyous celebration of the achievements and hard work of our graduating students. Held at the expansive and fully accessible PPL Center in Allentown, this event offers families and friends the opportunity to see their loved ones mark a momentous occasion that they will never forget.
Commencement FAQs for Students
Find answers to your most frequently asked questions about your Muhlenberg commencement ceremony.
What time should I arrive at the PPL Center for the ceremony?
Graduates may begin to arrive at 8:30 a.m. and must be present no later than 9:30 a.m.
Note: Graduates are responsible for providing their own transportation and parking. The PPL Center website has information on directions and parking.
Where do I enter the PPL Center?
Graduates will enter the PPL Center’s loading dock entrance located on Linden Street between 7th and 8th Streets (see map here).
Note: Graduates are not permitted to park in the loading dock — this is a pedestrian entrance only.
How do I correctly wear my cap and gown?
Please review this video to see the correct way to wear your academic regalia.
Note: The video makes reference to a Master’s degree, but that’s correct for all Muhlenberg grads since our regalia includes hoods!
There will be staff onsite to assist you on the day of commencement, though, should you need some help!
Can I store personal items during the ceremony?
There is no location to store or hold personal items during the ceremony, so please be prepared to keep all personal items with you at all times.
Where should I plan to meet my friends and family after the ceremony?
You will be exiting the PPL Center at the conclusion of the ceremony, so make a plan for where to meet your guests outside of the arena. You will not be permitted to reenter the PPL Center at the end of the ceremony.
How do I get commencement cords?
Commencement cords, stoles, and other like items are distributed by the awarding department or student organization. Latin honor cords will be distributed by the Provost’s Office to eligible students during the week prior to commencement. Please contact the awarding department or student organization president with questions.
Please direct any regalia questions to Berg Outfitters at 484-664-3492.
How can I record my name's pronunciation for the commencement ceremony?
You can help with the pronunciation of your name during the commencement ceremony by recording it in Workday. Instructions can be found here.
Please record your name as it will appear on your diploma, including your middle name, if requested. If your name was previously recorded, please listen to the current recording and update it as needed. If you have any difficulty recording your name, please contact [email protected].
How can I order tickets for the commencement ceremony?
An email has been sent to graduates at their muhlenberg.edu address with instructions on how to retrieve their digital tickets for the ceremony.
How can I pre-register for the professional photos taken during the ceremony?
Island Photography will be providing professional photo coverage of every graduate as they are recognized during the ceremony. To ensure graduates receive their free commencement day proofs quickly and accurately, please complete this check-in. If you would like proofs to be shared with family or friends, you can include their information in the check-in form. There is no obligation to purchase photos. Packages start at only $7.95. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Island Photography customer service team at [email protected] or 800-869-0908.
Commencement FAQs for General Public
Find answers to your most frequently asked questions about Muhlenberg’s commencement.
Where and when will commencement be held?
The 2026 commencement ceremony will be held at the PPL Center in Allentown, PA on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 10 a.m.
PPL Center
701 Hamilton St
Allentown, PA 18101
What time do the doors to the PPL Center open for guests?
The public entrances for guests will open at 8:30 a.m.
Will the ceremony be livestreamed?
Yes! Here is the link to the livestream.
Please note that the livestream link will not become active (you won’t see anything) until approximately 15 minutes prior to the ceremony start time.
How long does the ceremony usually last?
The commencement ceremony run time varies year to year, but we expect the ceremony to begin at 10:00 a.m. and we anticipate it will end around noon.
We always suggest making lunch plans after 1:30 p.m. so you have enough time to meet up with your graduate for picture taking, etc. Although the area generally clears out quickly, traffic near the arena is also something to anticipate.
Can we still get tickets for the ceremony?
Yes! An email has been sent to graduates at their muhlenberg.edu address with instructions on how to order and retrieve their digital tickets for the ceremony. Graduates can still order tickets.
How many tickets will each graduate be given?
Each graduate may reserve an unlimited number of guest tickets.
Are there ADA seats available?
Yes. The PPL Center is a fully-accessible venue. Adequate ADA seating is available on the main concourse around the arena on a first come, first-served basis. ADA seating cannot be reserved, but there is plenty. If you need help the day of the ceremony, please contact a PPL representative or Muhlenberg volunteer upon entry to the arena.
What other accessibility accommodations are available?
Sign language interpreters will be present at the ceremony. The ceremony also will be transcribed through captioning found on the screens throughout the facility, as well as on the live stream. Guests needing to rent wheelchairs or other medical devices can do so from a nearby facility, such as St. Luke’s Allentown campus. If you have additional questions regarding accessibility accommodations, please visit the accessibility accommodations page of the PPL Center site.
What can I expect at the PPL Center?
The PPL Center offers Muhlenberg families air-conditioning; comfortable seating; an expansive stage; unlimited guests; ample, on-site, covered parking; and live video on large screens/the Jumbotron — providing an exceptional view from every seat in the arena.
For all events, entry begins with patrons going through a security check that includes metal detectors and bag checks. All items are subject to security screening prior to entering the building.
We ask that you silence all electronic devices, refrain from talking during the ceremony, and remain seated during the program.
Where can I park?
Please be advised, there will be city construction on Hamilton Street (in front of the PPL Center). Please factor this into your travel and parking plans.
Graduates and their guests need to arrange transportation and parking. The PPL Center website has information on directions and parking.
The parking garage adjacent to the venue is the PPL Center/Orange Garage. There are several other parking garages in close proximity to the PPL Center that can also be reserved. Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Street parking is also available.
How do I get to the PPL Center?
Graduates and their guests will need to arrange their own transportation and parking. The PPL Center website has information on directions and parking.
Here is the address:
PPL Center
701 Hamilton St
Allentown, PA 18101
What is prohibited at the PPL Center?
Graduates and guests are not permitted to bring the following or similar items into the PPL Center:
- Outside food or beverages
- Balloons, wrapped packages, whistles, or other noisemakers
- Signs or banners
Here is a complete list of prohibited items and the PPL Center bag/purse policy.
Can I buy Muhlenberg gifts for my graduate at the PPL Center?
Yes! ‘Berg Outfitters will be conveniently hosting a booth in the main concourse of the PPL Center if you would like to get your new graduate some Muhlenberg gifts!
How can we order flowers for our graduate?
Order a bouquet of roses for your graduate! Roses will be conveniently available for pick-up at the PPL Center in the Main WFMZ Lobby. All proceeds from this sale benefit the Crime Victims Council of the Lehigh Valley, a nonprofit, United Way agency. One bouquet of roses can be purchased for $40 and two bouquets for $75. Each order includes a gift card. Orders must be received by Monday, May 11.
How can I view a video of the commencement ceremony after the event?
Following the commencement ceremony, the video will be available in the archive section of this website.
Where can I order photos of graduates receiving their degrees?
Island Photography will be providing professional photo coverage of every graduate as they are recognized during the ceremony. Every graduate will be photographed while crossing the stage and after receiving a diploma. Graduates are encouraged to pre-register using the Selfie-Check In link to ensure proofs are delivered correctly. Graduates can also request for families and friends to receive a copy of the proofs when they become available after the ceremony. There is no obligation to purchase photos.
Where is a good place for hotel and restaurant accommodations?
Visit DiscoverLehighValley.com for a list of area hotels and restaurants.
How can graduates order commencement regalia?
Graduates can order their commencement regalia here. Regalia must be ordered by March 13 for pick up at the Senior Fair on April 14 at Berg Outfitters. Any regalia ordered after March 13 will be shipped to your residence and will incur additional shipping charges.
What do the colored graduation cords on some graduates signify and how do I get one?
Honors cords recognize that a student achieved high academic standing in their major or minor and are members of a recognized national or international honor society.
Club cords are awarded to club members in clubs that serve the college mission. The cord recognizes that a student has met the academic requirements to be recognized for significant service in a club or organization.
Commencement cords, stoles, and other like items are distributed by the awarding department or student organization. Latin honor cords will be distributed by the Provost’s Office to eligible students. Please contact your department head or student organization president if you have any questions.
Commencement Cords
| Honors Society | Cord Color | |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha Epsilon Delta (Prehealth Honor Society) | Purple and Red | |
| Chi Alpha Sigma (National Scholar-Athlete Honors Society) | Black and Gold | |
| Dana Scholars | Red and White | |
| Dobro Slovo (Languages Honor Society) | Gold and Black | |
| Media and Communication Honors | Tan | |
| Omicron Delta Epsilon (Economics Honors Society) | Royal Blue and Gold | |
| Phi Alpha Theta (History Honors Society) | Light Blue and Red | |
| Phi Beta Kappa (National Honors Society) | Pale Pink and Pale Blue | |
| Phi Sigma Iota (Languages Honor Society) | Purple and White | |
| Phi Sigma Tao (Philosophy Honors Society) | Blue and White | |
| Pi Mu Epsilon (Mathematics Honors Society) | Gold, Purple and Lilac | |
| Pi Sigma Alpha (Political Science Honors Society) | Red, White and Black | |
| Psi Chi (Psychology Honors Society) | Platinum/Dark Blue | |
| RJ Fellows | Cardinal and Gray Spiral | |
| Shankweiler Scholars | Black/Black/Kelly Green | |
| Sigma Iota Rho (International Studies Honors Society) | Yellow | |
| Studio Art Honors | Turquoise and White | |
| Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Cum Laude | Gold | |
| Theta Alpha Kappa (Religion Studies Honors Society) | Red | |
| Triota (Women's and Gender Studies Honors Society) | Pale Lavender |
Commencement Cords
| Club/Affiliation | Cord Color | |
|---|---|---|
| Band Fraternity | White and Royal Blue | |
| Emerging Leaders | Muhlenberg Colors with White | |
| First Generation | Navy and White | |
| Hall Directors and Resident Assistants | White, Black and Gray | |
| Head Tutors | Green and White | |
| International Students | Flags | |
| Learning Assistants | Green and White | |
| Muhlenberg College Emergency Medical Services | Navy Blue and Red | |
| PHAM (Peer Health Advocates at Muhlenberg) | Salmon | |
| Student Government Association | Red and Blue | |
| Study Abroad | Country of Study | |
| Voices of Strength | Purple and Turquoise | |
| Psi Chi (Psychology Honors Society) | Platinum/Dark Blue | |
| RJ Fellows | Cardinal and Gray Spiral | |
| Shankweiler Scholars | Black/Black/Kelly Green | |
| Sigma Iota Rho (International Studies Honors Society) | Yellow | |
| Studio Art Honors | Turquoise and White | |
| Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Cum Laude | Gold | |
| Theta Alpha Kappa (Religion Studies Honors Society) | Red | |
| Triota (Women's and Gender Studies Honors Society) | Pale Lavender |
Can we still order tickets for the Commencement Luncheon?
Yes, tickets are still available! The deadline to purchase Commencement Luncheon tickets is Friday, May 15, or until seating capacity is filled. Tickets are available for $21.99 for adults and $13.99 for children ages 3-12.
The on-campus Commencement Luncheon in the Wood Dining Commons immediately follows the commencement ceremony. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Where can I direct additional questions?
For any of your remaining questions about commencement or other graduation activities, please use the following contacts:
Commencement ceremony: [email protected] or 484-664-3230
Commencement weekend/campus events: [email protected] or 484-664-3657
Housing/move-out: [email protected] or 484-664-3180
Graduation status: [email protected] or 484-664-3190
Cap and gown: [email protected] (’Berg Outfitters) or 484-664-3492
Commencement Archive
See videos, photos, and other coverage of past commencement ceremonies.