On Friday, May 15, the Columbia University Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program celebrated Class Day and the extraordinary members of the Class of 2026. The ceremony was held at Low Memorial Library where students were joined by faculty, administrators, and distinguished guests.
Dean Lisa Rosen-Metsch ‘90GS opened the ceremony with a warm welcome, extending special greetings to Keynote Speaker and Dean of the Columbia Mailman School of Public Health Johnathan Mermin and Student Speaker Rem Myers ’26PBPM.
In her address to the graduates Dean Rosen-Metsch stated, “You are scientists. But you are also humanists, artists, and advocates. You bring with you a rare breadth of perspective and a deep sense of purpose.” She continued: “In a world still grappling with inequities in healthcare, I urge you to be champions of justice. Use your voice and your training to advocate for the vulnerable, to innovate boldly, and to always lead with compassion.”
Following Dean Rosen-Metsch’s welcome, Keynote Speaker Dr. Mermin took the stage to deliver the Keynote Address. A distinguished epidemiologist for several decades, Dr. Mermin is Dean of the Columbia Mailman School of Public Health. Previously, he was Director of the National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Director of the Division of HIV Prevention at CDC.
Following Dr. Mermin’s Keynote Address, Dean Rosen-Metsch presented the alumni key award, which recognizes students who have demonstrated a combination of exceptional academic achievement and an ongoing commitment to leadership and service within the Columbia community, to Simone Hogan-Murphy ‘26PBPM. Then, James Colgrove ’01 MSPH, ’04 GSAS, Dean of the Postbac Premed Program, gave his address to the graduating class.
"What a long distance you’ve traveled. You came to this program as bankers and actuaries, as actors and writers, as computer scientists and teachers and athletes," said Dean Colgrove. "You have transformed yourselves, and you have developed new identities as scientists, clinicians, researchers, and healers. You’ve shown your command of the sciences, your clinical skills, and your commitment to caring for others."
After Dean Colgrove’s address, Dr. Alain C.J. de Lotbinière ‘76GS presented the graduates with their Alumni Pins. Dean Colgrove then introduced student speaker Rem Myers who addressed his fellow graduates.
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Dean Rosen-Metsch congratulating the graduating class of 2026 for their accomplishments and completion of the Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program.
