On May 18, 2026, New York Medical College (NYMC) celebrated the 167th commencement of its graduating class, with ceremonies honoring hundreds of the next generation of physicians, scientists, and public health professionals. Proceedings for the School of Health Sciences and Practice (SHSP), School of Medicine (SOM), and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBMS) took place at the Westchester County Center in White Plains, New York.
Family, friends, and colleagues joined together to celebrate the conferral of 409 total degrees to the Class of 2026, including 202 doctor of medicine (M.D.) degrees; 49 doctor of physical therapy (D.P.T) degrees; nine doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees; 83 master of science (M.S.) degrees; 57 master of public health (M.P.H.) degrees; and nine doctor of public health (Dr.P.H.) degrees.
“New York Medical College’s Class of 2026 graduates have demonstrated exceptional dedication to medicine and unwavering compassion to those who they will serve. In an era of a transformation in health care, our graduates are prepared to lead with integrity, innovation, and a deep commitment to advancing the health and wellbeing of patients everywhere,” said Edward C. Halperin, M.D., M.A., chancellor and chief executive officer at NYMC. “We are proud to send them forward as ambassadors of NYMC’s 166-year legacy of excellence in medicine and service.”
This year’s ceremonies featured two distinguished keynote speakers whose careers reflect the breadth of impact NYMC graduates are prepared to make. Sonia Mehta, M.D., M.B.A., chief executive officer region II, corporate chief medical officer and chief academic officer at Prime Healthcare, addressed graduates of the SHSP. Sabine Hildebrandt, M.D., FAAA, associate scientific researcher and associate professor of pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital, and associate professor of pediatrics and lecturer of Global Health and Social Medicine at Harvard Medical School, delivered remarks to the SOM and GSBMS.
The keynote speakers brought wisdom earned over careers, and a shared charge to look outward. “The best patient and community care often arises from a diverse perspective and collecting wisdom, whether you’re working on a public health campaign, a rehabilitation plan or a complex ethical dilemma,” she said. “Above all, remember that every individual you encounter, whether a patient in your clinic, a population group you are analyzing, or a policy you’re crafting, brings a story, an entire life, filled with hopes, dreams, and fears. It is your responsibility to listen, understand, and respond with passion,” Dr. Mehta told the graduates.
“This is just a wonderful day to share with you of not only looking back onto what you have achieved but also of looking forward to the next steps in your lives,” said Dr. Hildebrandt, who was awarded an honorary degree for being a leader in ethics in anatomy and devoting her career to examining how scientific knowledge is created, transmitted, and sometimes corrupted. “In your faces, I see the hope that is now carrying you on—and with you, all of us.”
Photos from the week’s commencement proceedings can be viewed here.
Videos of the ceremonies can be viewed here.