The University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown is proud to announce that Dr. Miguel A. Cardona, the 12th United States Secretary of Education, will serve as the featured commencement speaker at its graduation ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.
During his tenure, lasting from January 2021 to January 2025, Secretary Cardona prioritized increased access, affordability, and greater accountability. Among key accomplishments, Secretary Cardona led the successful reopening of America’s schools following the pandemic and oversaw efforts to accelerate academic recovery. He also provided energetic leadership that culminated in student debt relief for millions of Americans.
“UPJ is honored to welcome Dr. Miguel Cardona, a highly accomplished leader with extensive experience at the local, state, and national levels,” stated UPJ President Jem Spectar. "His amazing transformational journey from first-generation student to national leadership and impact will resonate with and surely inspire our students as well."
Secretary Cardona currently leads Cardona Solutions, a firm focused on advancing career readiness. He is also a Resident Fellow at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government and will soon join Yale University’s School of Management as a Fellow. Dr. Cardona holds a bachelor's degree from Central Connecticut State University and an Ed.D. from the University of Connecticut.