La Roche University Celebrates 60th Commencement Ceremony

PITTSBURGH, May 9, 2026 – La Roche University proudly conferred 325 degrees during its 60th Commencement Ceremony held today.

The University honored graduates earning 20 doctoral degrees, 124 master’s degrees, 175 bachelor’s degrees, and 6 associate degrees. The Class of 2026 included 51 international students representing 25 countries.

This year’s commencement speaker, Dan Beck, delivered remarks reflecting on a more than 50-year career in the music and entertainment industry, where he worked in artist development, marketing, and innovation with some of the most influential figures in popular music.

Mr. Beck went on to hold senior roles at CBS Records and Epic Records, where he led publicity and marketing efforts for a wide range of artists, including Michael Jackson, Pearl Jam, Cyndi Lauper, Sade, and others. He later served in artist management and music publishing before returning to Epic Records for a 17-year tenure as a product manager overseeing global marketing strategy.

In his address, he reflected on the power of creativity, resilience, and personal responsibility.

“Change doesn’t start out there. It starts with you,” Mr. Beck told graduates, urging them to remain resilient, build meaningful relationships, and “know how to finish” in the pursuit of their goals.

He was also presented with an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration in recognition of his distinguished career in music, media, and leadership.

La Roche University President Christina Clark, Ph.D., commended the Class of 2026 for their achievements and the strength of the graduating class.

During the ceremony, President Clark presented the 2026 President’s Award for Leadership and Scholarship to three outstanding graduates: returning student Roger Healy, and traditional undergraduate students Malvin Madzimbamuto and Madison Dalverny.

Roger Healy, an English Studies: Professional and Creative Writing major and U.S. Army veteran, graduated summa cum laude with a 3.94 GPA. He distinguished himself through student journalism, grant writing in support of veterans and first responders, and contributions to campus Veterans Day programming.

Malvin Madzimbamuto, an Information Technology major from Switzerland, was recognized for his leadership as captain of the men’s soccer team, where he helped lead the Redhawks to their first AMCC Championship while earning First Team All-AMCC honors. He balanced athletic achievement with academic excellence and active engagement across campus.

Madison Dalverny graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Communication, Media, and Technology and Sports and Entertainment Management. She was honored for her extensive leadership across campus, including roles in student government, athletics, and residence life. She also contributed significantly to student support services and athletics operations throughout her time at La Roche.

The President’s Award for Leadership and Scholarship is the highest undergraduate honor at La Roche University. Recipients are selected for academic excellence, leadership, and service, and exemplify the mission and values of the University.

About La Roche University: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 71 undergraduate programs of study, eight master’s degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

###