Holy Cross College will celebrate the Class of 2026 during its 59th Commencement Weekend on May 15–16, honoring graduates whose journeys reflect academic achievement, personal formation, and lives rooted in purpose.

The weekend will bring together graduates, families, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees, and friends of the College for two days of celebration centered on faith, community, and the mission of Holy Cross.

Baccalaureate Mass

The Commencement celebration will begin with Baccalaureate Mass on Friday, May 15, at St. Joseph Chapel on the Holy Cross College campus.

The liturgy serves as a moment of reflection and thanksgiving for graduates before Commencement exercises, honoring the Holy Cross tradition of educating the heart and mind.

Commencement Ceremony

Holy Cross College’s 59th Commencement Ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 16, at the Pfeil Center.

During the ceremony, graduates will cross the stage as the College celebrates a class shaped by scholarship, service, leadership, and formation through The Holy Cross Way.

This year’s ceremony will also include the presentation of honorary degrees to four distinguished leaders whose lives and work reflect the mission and values of Holy Cross College.

2026 Honorary Degree Recipients

Thomas J. Gryp

Thomas J. Gryp, Chair and CEO of Notre Dame Federal Credit Union, will receive an honorary degree in recognition of his leadership in financial services and longstanding commitment to the South Bend community and Catholic higher education.

A South Bend native and University of Notre Dame graduate, Gryp has guided Notre Dame Federal Credit Union through significant innovation and growth while supporting initiatives that strengthen the region and expand opportunities for students and families.

His relationship with Holy Cross College includes service on the Board of Trustees and support of campus development projects.

John C. Gschwind

John C. Gschwind, Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary of Rexel USA, Inc., will be recognized for his transformational leadership and years of service to Holy Cross College.

Gschwind served three terms as Chair of the Holy Cross College Board of Trustees and played a pivotal role in the presidential transition that brought Dr. Marco J. Clark to the College. He also helped guide the development of the College’s strategic plan and campus master plan during a significant season of institutional growth.

Sister Ann Lacour, MSC

Sister Ann Lacour, MSC, Congregational Leader of the Marianites of Holy Cross, will receive an honorary degree recognizing decades of service in Catholic education and religious leadership.

Throughout her vocation, Sister Ann has served as a teacher, principal, superintendent, and congregational leader, helping form generations of students while advancing the spiritual mission of the Marianites of Holy Cross.

Her life reflects a deep commitment to the educational mission and charism of Holy Cross.

Alex Jones

Alex Jones, CEO and Co-Founder of Hallow, will receive an honorary degree for his leadership in faith-based innovation and evangelization.

Under Jones’ leadership, Hallow has grown into the world’s leading Catholic prayer and meditation app, reaching millions of users in more than 150 countries through guided prayer, scripture reflections, and spiritual content.

A graduate of the University of Notre Dame and Stanford Graduate School of Business, Jones represents a new generation of Catholic leadership working at the intersection of technology, mission, and global outreach.

A Celebration of Formation

Holy Cross College President Dr. Marco J. Clark said this year’s honorees reflect the mission the College hopes to instill in every graduate.

“Each of these honorees reflects the very best of what we hope to cultivate in our students,” said Holy Cross College President Dr. Marco J. Clark. “Through leadership in business, law, education, religious life, and innovation, they demonstrate that a life rooted in faith and guided by purpose can have a profound impact on the Church and the world. We are honored to celebrate their witness as we send forth our graduates to lead with competence, compassion, and courage.”

Commencement Weekend reflects Holy Cross College’s commitment to forming scholars, citizens, leaders, and disciples prepared to serve both the Church and society.

Additional Commencement information, including schedules and updates, is available at https://www.hcc-nd.edu/commencement.