Dean Lisa Rosen-Metsch ‘90GS opened the ceremony by recognizing the graduates, their unique backgrounds, and varied journeys within Columbia’s School of General Studies.
The graduates comprised a diverse group of students representing 19 countries around the world, with the youngest graduate being 22, and the oldest 64. Among the cohort were 40 international students, 22 military veterans from the U.S. and abroad , and 40 first-generation college students.
“However you spent your days as Columbia students—whether in classrooms, workplaces, labs, studios, or caring for children and other family members—know that we are proud of you, and every day we are motivated by you,” Dean Rosen-Metsch told the graduates. “You are now a part of one of the most robust alumni communities in the world, and you are forever connected to Columbia.”
The ceremony continued with the student council address delivered by Senior Class President, Aleigh Alarie ‘26GS, who transferred to Columbia from the Community College of Rhode Island to begin her GS journey as a creative writing major with a concentration in fiction.
Following Alarie’s remarks, Zhexi Shan ’22GS, the ceremony’s alumni speaker, shared a few words with the graduates, reflecting on his own journey at GS that led to his current role as an Intake and Data Integrity Specialist at The Fortune Society.
Dean Delva then heralded the Presentation of the Graduates, congratulating each of them, and welcoming those in attendance on stage to receive their alumni pin.
Finally, Dean Rosen-Metsch concluded the ceremony with closing remarks that echoed the sentiments, pride, and celebration expressed throughout the evening.
Overview of the 2026 February Graduates
- Number of 2025 Graduates: 105
- Academic majors represented: 33
- Age range of graduates: 22 to 64
- First-generation college graduates: 40
- Number of international student graduates: 40, representing 19 countries
- U.S. military veterans graduating: 13
- International military veterans graduating: 9
- Number of graduates in the GS Honor Society: 31
