Campus News

During Milestone Year, Juniata's Class of 2026 Steps Into the Future

(Posted May 20, 2026)

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HUNTINGDON, Pa. — Juniata College’s Class of 2026 gathered on the quad outside the Halbritter Center for the Performing Arts on May 16 for the College’s 148th commencement ceremony. 

A total of 299 graduates received degrees, including 40 master’s degrees, 48 bachelor of arts degrees, and 212 bachelor of science degrees.   

“It has been a true blessing and an honor to be with all of you for this special year, our 150th,” said President James A. Troha. “As you walk out this afternoon as a proud Juniata graduate, you have a deep responsibility to serve and make the lives of those around you better.” 

He led the Class of 2026 in a round of applause for their family members and supporters, acknowledging the important role they played in reaching this day.  

As graduates prepared to leave the familiarity of campus life, “the Juniata bubble,” they were encouraged to expect uncertainty, disappointment, and criticism, and to view those moments as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to avoid. 

“It will be your strong character, your integrity, enthusiasm, positive attitude, and good judgment that will inspire the excellence I know you desire,” said Troha.  

Troha cited the lived examples of commencement speaker Cynthia Y Valko ’76, former CEO of Global Indemnity, and veteran insurance industry leader, and Amr Abdalla, Ph.D., founder of the In Peace Institute and former Scholar in Residence at the Baker Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies at Juniata College, who were presented with doctor of humane letters degrees during the ceremony.  

Troha described both honorees as examples of the idea that “with knowledge comes responsibility.” 

Danny Ortega Jr., senior class president, paused to take a selfie with the crowd before reflecting on late nights, academic struggles, athletics, research, and friendship. 

"People love to say that college is where you find yourself. I think we did something much better. We listened, we watched, we debated, and we celebrated together, growing into the graduates sitting here today,” Ortega said. “The beautiful thing about these last four years is that every single one of our journeys was different, but the best part is that we didn’t travel them alone.” 

Students Abjana Bhadari ’27 and Danny McCauley ’26 presented Abdalla’s citation. Valko’s citation was presented by her husband, George Valko ’75. 

Reflecting on her own commencement 50 years earlier, Valko encouraged graduates to embrace failure with humility, resilience, and emotional intelligence (EQ). 

“Instead of pretending that I have all the answers, let me share what I’ve learned the hard way. It’s what I call failing forward,” she said. “Believe me, I have failed more times than I can count. So, how do you win this battle? How do you fail your way to success?” 

Valko came to Juniata with modest means and unwavering determination. She worked at the local Weis Market throughout all four years while receiving financial support from the College — support she now pays forward through her continued commitment to Juniata. 

“I realized in those early years of hard work to appreciate what you have. Nothing worthwhile is handed to you,” said Valko. “I never lost that humility. I continued to climb to be CEO of a private company. It didn’t change who I was. I always tried to stay grounded and honest.”  

The desire to be valued and recognized is universal. Early in her career, Valko committed to listening before speaking and valuing every other voice in the room. 

“Talent and IQ may open doors, but humility and EQ will keep them open and help build something that’s going to last,” she said.  

Admonishing graduates to go forth and fail forward, Valko concluded, “The world needs your unique combination of heart, humility, and wisdom. So, go fail your way to success.” 

The Class of 2026 now joins Juniata’s alumni community during a milestone year in the College’s history. 

Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.