Penn State Altoona announces spring 2026 student marshals

ALTOONA, Pa. — Penn State Altoona has announced the student marshals for spring 2026 commencement. Student marshals are chosen to represent their academic division at commencement based on outstanding academic achievement.

At Penn State Altoona, student marshals lead graduating students during the commencement procession. Penn State Altoona will hold its spring 2026 commencement ceremony at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, in the Arena of the Adler Athletic Complex.

Below are testimonials from the student marshals:

Abigail Barger

Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies

Division of Business, Health, Humanities and Social Sciences

"I am incredibly grateful for my time at Penn State Altoona. When I started, I knew I wanted to work in the human services field in my community. I thought Penn State would be a good fit simply because it was close to home. Little did I know it would be so much more than that. My professors and classes helped me fall in love with understanding how people are shaped by their environments and the importance of having a holistic approach when serving members of the community. To help someone best, we must understand their whole self, not just what we see in the moment. My professors shared not just their knowledge, but their passion. Through my field experience, I have gained insight into the inner workings of human services in our community. I want to express my thanks to my field supervisors who offered me the unique opportunity to explore the many aspects of human services. My time at Penn State has been incredibly important in shaping who I want to be in my field."

Alexis Brooke Dell

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Division of Engineering, Science and Technology

"I am deeply honored to be chosen as a student marshal by the Penn State Altoona faculty. My experiences on campus and with the faculty have shaped my identity and my career, and I am incredibly grateful to everyone who helped me along the way. I owe most of my success to Dr. Yimin Zhu, who took a chance and invited me into his research lab while I was a nervous freshman. He always pushed me to succeed and think critically about everything I do. Now, I am incredibly proud of the researcher I have become under his mentorship. I am also indebted to Dr. Laura Palmer, whom I have chosen as my faculty escort. She is not only the most dedicated professor but also an unwaveringly warm and kind person. When I needed support most, she went above and beyond to support me in and out of the classroom.

"Penn State Altoona has a wonderful community of students, faculty and staff. I am proud to represent this amazing group of graduates as we conclude our journeys together."

Alawnia Diehl

Bachelor of the Arts in Communications

Division of Business, Health, Humanities and Social Sciences

"It is an absolute honor to serve as the student marshal for the Division of Business, Health, Humanities and Social Sciences for Penn State Altoona’s spring 2026 graduating class. After graduating high school in 2020, I took a two-year gap before beginning my college journey at Penn State Altoona. In those two years of personal growth and self-discovery, I uncovered a fervent curiosity about the world and a desire to continue learning. Although I felt anxious about taking the next step, I decided to submit my application to Penn State Altoona, and I could not be more grateful for the learning, growth and opportunities that followed. I am truly thankful to my professors, friends and family who have supported me throughout my college journey. Their guidance and encouragement have not only made my achievements possible but have also helped me build confidence, resilience and a belief in my own potential.

"Though our time at Penn State Altoona has come to a close, I hope we all leave here inspired to continue pursuing knowledge, embracing growth, and making a meaningful impact in all that we do."

Thomas Scanlon

Bachelor of Science in Rail Transportation Engineering

Division of Engineering, Science and Technology

"Being chosen as the student marshal representing Penn State Altoona’s Division of Engineering, Science and Technology is nothing short of a profound honor. My four-year journey was filled with meaningful experiences that left lasting impressions on me. It was also extremely demanding, presenting some of my life’s greatest challenges that required the best of my abilities and determination to conquer. I am beyond thankful for my time at Penn State Altoona, as it has given me fond memories to cherish and has also prepared me for the next chapter of my life.

"Of course, I never could have forged this path alone. I would like to thank the Penn State Altoona faculty for their dedication to providing students with an enriching educational experience. In particular, I want to recognize Dr. Shihui Shen, whose incredible knowledge and wisdom were invaluable in guiding me through this journey. I also extend my gratitude to my family, friends and everyone who has supported me along the way. I especially want to thank my mother and father for instilling in me a strong work ethic and the desire to always pursue my aspirations in life. Thank you all for everything!"