Pace University announced on April 8 the lineup of distinguished speakers who will address graduates during its Commencement ceremonies in 2026. The announcement was made by President Marvin Krislov, who said the event is a meaningful moment that brings together the entire Pace community.
The selection of speakers reflects a range of expertise and experience across journalism, healthcare, law, business, and public service. At the Main Ceremony, Lester Holt—award-winning journalist and anchor of Dateline NBC—will address the Class of 2026. “One of the most respected voices in broadcast journalism, Holt has spent decades reporting from the front lines of the world’s biggest stories and helping audiences make sense of them,” Krislov said.
During Undergraduate Day, Mitchell Katz, MD, president and chief executive officer of NYC Health + Hospitals, will speak to graduates from several schools within Pace. Pedro Rivera ’12—a Pace alumnus and Emmy Award–winning journalist—will return to address students from Dyson College of Arts and Sciences as well as other colleges.
On Graduate Day, additional speakers include Hon. Francesca E. Connolly ’82 for Elisabeth Haub School of Law; Judith M. Watson for health professions-related programs; and Peter Muller for business- and computer science-related graduates. Each speaker brings unique professional backgrounds ranging from judicial service to healthcare leadership to entrepreneurship in quantitative finance.
Krislov concluded his message by congratulating this year’s graduating class: “To our graduates, this moment reflects everything you have built during your time at Pace. You are ready for what comes next.” He also encouraged students to learn more about commencement details through university resources.
