Brandeis celebrates Class of 2026 at 75th commencement 

Brandeis University conferred more than 1,600 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees Sunday at its 75th commencement exercises.

The May 17 event featured remarks from university leaders, including Board of Trustees Chair Lisa Kranc and President Arthur Levine, who emphasized responsibility and leadership as graduates prepare for life after college. 

Rabbi Seth Winberg delivered the invocation, encouraging students to recognize family and community members who helped them reach graduation day. 

Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer of social media giant Meta, delivered the keynote address, urging graduates to choose “contribution over self-protection” and “collectivism over tribalism.” 

Brandeis awarded Waltham Mayor Jeannette A. McCarthy with an honorary Doctor of Laws at the commencement. The university recognized McCarthy’s educational and leadership accomplishments, including her service in all three branches of Waltham city government and her presidency of the Massachusetts Mayors’ Association.

More information about Brandeis’ commencement is available on the university’s website.