Meet the Class of 2026

Ethan Acevedo ’26 built his Gettysburg College experience around service, leadership, and community engagement. A health sciences major, he served as a program coordinator in the Center for Public Service (CPS), Health Sciences peer learning associate (PLA), and Student Senate member, while also participating in the Latin American Student Association (LASA). Through these roles, he developed a strong commitment to supporting others and creating inclusive spaces on campus. “Each role pushed me to grow and think about how I can make a difference in my community,” he said. After graduation, he plans to attend medical school and pursue a career in rural primary care.

Saiman Adhikari ’26 embraced opportunities for leadership and mentorship throughout his time at Gettysburg College. A biochemistry and molecular biology major, he served as a leadership educator at the Garthwait Leadership Center (GLC), helping fellow students navigate programs centered on personal growth and community engagement. Adhikari studied abroad in Norway and conducted scientific research through the Cross-Disciplinary Institute at Gettysburg (X-SIG), the Knight Cancer Institute, and Johns Hopkins University. Through these leadership roles, he strengthened his communication and facilitation skills while learning how to support others in meaningful ways. “Being a leadership educator allowed me to reflect on my own experiences while helping others find their path,” he said. After graduation, he plans to work as a research associate and attend graduate school for biomedical science.

Denae Bowen ’26 found her voice at Gettysburg College through leadership, advocacy, and storytelling. As president of the Black Student Union (BSU) and the Anti-Racist Collective, she helped create opportunities for dialogue, connection, and community-building across campus. Bowen paired that work with her studies as an English major with a writing concentration, using writing as a way to explore identity and expression. “Being part of BSU allowed me to connect with others and grow into a stronger leader,” she said. After graduation, Bowen looks forward to getting her CNA certification and working full-time for a year before going to cosmetology school.

Julie Breedveld explored the intersection of finance, leadership, and experiential learning during her time at Gettysburg College. A business, organizations, and management major with an economics minor, she strengthened her analytical and communication skills through finance coursework, campus involvement, and a Vanguard Business Leadership Internship. Breedveld also found community through Chi Omega and the women’s lacrosse program. “Learning how to analyze complex problems, collaborate with diverse teams, and make disciplined decisions will shape how I approach my future career in finance,” she said. After graduation, Breedveld will continue with Vanguard through its two-year Accelerated Career Development Program.

Malachi Briscoe ’26 built his Gettysburg College experience through leadership across athletics, campus employment, and student organizations. A business, organizations, and management major, he served as a coordinator at the College’s fitness center, helping manage schedules and daily operations. Briscoe also helped lead the men’s basketball team to its first Centennial Conference championship in 17 years and served as president of the Gettysburg College Fashion Initiative. These experiences strengthened his leadership and communication skills. “Working in different roles on campus helped me learn how to manage responsibility in real time,” he says. After graduation, Briscoe will return to Everest Global—where he interned last summer—to work as an associate underwriter at its U.S. headquarters in Warren, New Jersey.

Marisa Conners ’26 combined academic focus with deep campus involvement and civic engagement during her time at Gettysburg College. A public policy and women, gender, and sexuality studies major, she participated in color guard with the Bullets Marching Band. She served as an It’s On Us Fellow and member of the Hillel Executive Board. She also found community through the Half Sole Dance Company and Student Disability Network. “Gettysburg has given me the chance to explore issues I care about and see how change happens,” she said. Conners plans to continue her work in public service after graduation through an internship with New Jersey State Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman.

A global perspective and a passion for interdisciplinary learning shaped Ana Carolina Delena Cury’s ’26 Gettysburg College experience. An economics and Spanish major with a minor in data science, she embraced the College’s liberal arts approach to connect ideas across cultures and academic fields. Through her coursework and leadership roles in Residential Education , Alpha Delta Pi, and Student Senate, she strengthened her adaptability and intercultural fluency. “Gettysburg gave me the opportunity to challenge myself in different areas and grow in ways I never expected,” she said. After graduation, she plans to return to Bradesco Bank in Miami, Florida—where she held an internship during her junior year—and continue gaining experience in the finance industry.

Julia Daly ’26 balanced academic achievement with elite athletic success during her time at Gettysburg College. A business major with minors in economics and education, she became one of the most accomplished players in the history of the women’s lacrosse program, earning All-American honors, Centennial Conference Attacker of the Year, and finishing as the program’s all-time leader in goals scored. Off the field, she held leadership roles in Chi Omega sorority, worked in the athletics equipment room and athletics training room, and studied abroad in France. “My coaches made a huge impact on my experience and pushed me to be my best both on and off the field,” she said. After graduation, Daly plans to pursue a career in business.

Maximillion Ferguson ’26 developed a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork through his involvement in Gettysburg College athletics. A political science major, he worked in the athletic equipment room, supporting teams behind the scenes and helping ensure practices and competitions ran smoothly. He was also a staff writer for The Gettysburgian, a DJ at the campus radio station, and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. Through these experiences, Ferguson learned the importance of preparation, organization, and consistency. “Working in equipment operations showed me how much preparation and attention to detail go into every game,” he said. After graduation, Ferguson plans to attend law school and pursue a career in the legal field.

Conor Grubb ’26 spent his four years at Gettysburg College actively engaged in student leadership and campus advocacy. A chemistry major, he served in Student Senate all four years, working alongside peers and administrators to represent student voices and improve campus life. Grubb was also a member of Sceptical Chymists and the German Club, worked as a teaching assistant in Chemistry, and studied abroad in Germany. Through these experiences, he strengthened his communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. “Being part of Student Senate gave me the opportunity to make a real impact on campus,” he said. Grubb credits his involvement with helping him better understand collaboration and service. After graduation, he looks forward to applying the skills he developed at Gettysburg toward a career in chemistry.

For Cassidy Haines ’26, Gettysburg College became a place to grow creatively, academically, and personally. An English major with a writing concentration, she developed her voice through coursework and collaborative writing environments while building meaningful connections with classmates and friends. “Some of my favorite memories are the late nights spent working and laughing with friends,” she said. Haines was a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma—where she served a term as president—and was the magazine editor for The Gettysburgian. She credits Gettysburg’s close-knit community with encouraging her growth as both a writer and collaborator. After graduation, she plans to work in communications or college advancement before pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing.

Will Hedley ’26 combined academic success with high-level athletic achievement and professional experience during his time at Gettysburg College. An economics major, he earned All-American honors as a defenseman on the men’s lacrosse team while helping lead the Bullets to three NCAA Division III playoff appearances and a Centennial Conference championship in 2026. Off the field, Hedley participated in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and completed internships that connected classroom learning with real-world business experience. “My internships gave me a clearer sense of how I can use what I’ve learned beyond the classroom,” he said. After graduation, he will work for a family office land development firm in Fort Worth, Texas.

Rachel Herr ’26 used her time at Gettysburg College to build a strong foundation for a career in public service. A public policy and Spanish double major, she gained hands-on experience working with the Public Policy Department, connecting classroom learning with real-world policy work. Herr also traveled out of the country for the first time as a student at Gettysburg, participating in immersion trips to Morocco and Costa Rica with the Center for Public Service and studying abroad in Spain. Those opportunities helped her strengthen her adaptability and deepen her understanding of government and advocacy. “Gettysburg has given me opportunities to apply what I’ve learned in meaningful, real-world ways,” she said. Herr credits her academic and professional experiences with preparing her for the next step in her career. After graduation, she plans to work in the Pennsylvania state government before obtaining a master’s degree in public administration.

Will Hetzel ’26 embraced a multidisciplinary college experience that blended academics, the arts, and campus involvement. An environmental science major, he participated in the Bullets Marching Band and Symphony Band, was president of Sigma Nu, and worked as an Admissions tour guide. Through these experiences, Hetzel developed teamwork, adaptability, and a strong sense of community. “Being involved in so many different areas helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect,” he said. He credits his campus involvement with broadening both his perspective and interests during his four years at Gettysburg. After graduation, Hetzel plans to use his skills in GIS and spatial analysis to help with land planning and management in the environmental field.

Dejah Hill ’26 demonstrated initiative and leadership throughout her time at Gettysburg College by founding and leading Minorities in STEM. A health sciences and biology double major, she created a space that fostered representation, support, and connection for students in the sciences. Through this work and additional leadership roles in Biology and Student Senate, Hill developed confidence, organizational skills, and a commitment to helping others succeed. “Starting something of my own pushed me outside my comfort zone and showed me what I’m capable of,” she said. After graduation, she plans to attend dental school and continue her path in health care.

Mary Huegel ’26 excelled as a student-athlete during her time at Gettysburg College. A biochemistry and molecular biology major, she earned Academic All-American and All-American honors as a member of the volleyball team while also serving as a coordinator in the Jaeger Center for Athletics, Recreation, and Fitness, vice president of Sceptical Chymists, a teaching assistant in Chemistry, and a residential assistant. Huegel also conducted research as part of the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute at Gettysburg (X-SIG). Through athletics and academics, Huegel developed discipline, resilience, and teamwork skills that prepared her for future opportunities. “Being part of a team taught me how to lead and support others while pushing myself to improve,” she said. After graduation, she will continue her research journey at the National Institutes of Health for the next two years before applying to medical school.

Alfredo Roman Jordan ’26 combined academic rigor with campus leadership throughout his time at Gettysburg College. A physics major, he served as student body president, working closely with students, faculty, and administrators to advocate for initiatives that strengthened campus life and fostered community dialogue. Jordan also conducted research for three summers through the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute (X-SIG) and was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha. Through his leadership experiences, Jordan developed strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills while balancing the demands of a challenging academic program. “Serving in this role taught me how to listen, lead, and create meaningful change,” he said. After graduation, he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in physics and continue his passion for research.

Adib Kabir ’26 combined academic excellence with hands-on scientific research during his time at Gettysburg College. A physics major, Kabir was recognized nationally as a Rossing Physics Scholar for his work and potential in the field, an honor awarded to outstanding undergraduate physics students from colleges and universities across the country. Through research opportunities and close faculty mentorship, he deepened his passion for problem-solving and discovery while strengthening his analytical and technical skills. “Research helped me see physics as a collaborative process built on curiosity and persistence,” he said. Kabir credits Gettysburg’s supportive academic environment with preparing him for future scientific work. After graduation, he plans to continue his studies and pursue a career in physics research.

Athena Komitas ’26 centered her Gettysburg College experience on mentorship and academic support. As a peer learning associate for microbiology and introductory biology, she worked closely with students to reinforce challenging concepts and build confidence in STEM courses. A health sciences major, Komitas developed strong communication and teaching skills while helping others succeed. “Being a PLA helped me grow more confident in my ability to explain and connect with others,” she said. Komitas held leadership roles with Alpha Delta Pi, including vice president of operations, served as vice president of the ski club, sang in the choir, and worked as a student athletic trainer. After graduation, Komitas plans to work as a patient care technician at Jersey Shore University Medical Center while applying to PA school.

Leah Nath ’26 embraced the interdisciplinary opportunities at Gettysburg College to explore her passions for environmental studies, writing, and creative expression. An environmental studies major with a writing minor, Nath immersed herself in campus life through research, creative projects, and experiential learning opportunities that connected science and storytelling. Her work has included environmental writing, artistic exploration, and field research experiences, all of which have deepened her understanding of the natural world. “Gettysburg became a place where I could explore so many different interests and see how they connect,” she said. After graduation, she plans to pursue graduate study and a career in science communication through the arts and humanities.

Riley Nolan ’26 embraced experiential learning and outdoor leadership throughout her time at Gettysburg College. An anthropology and environmental studies major, she served as a leadership educator at the Garthwait Leadership Center (GLC), guiding outdoor trips that encouraged resilience, teamwork, and connection with nature. Nolan also studied abroad in Norway and participated in College programs that allowed her to explore Chile, Iceland, Mexico, and Colorado. Through these experiences, Nolan strengthened her leadership skills while helping others grow outside the classroom. “Leading trips helped me grow more confident in myself and my ability to support others,” she said. After graduation, she will work with the Appalachian Mountain Club as a professional trail crew member on trail restoration projects in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Ella Prieto ’26 built community while developing her voice as a student leader and writer at Gettysburg College. As a public policy and women, gender, and sexuality studies major with a writing minor, she served as editor-in-chief of The Gettysburgian, helping guide campus storytelling and conversation. Prieto also found connection through leadership roles in Greek life as a member of Alpha Omicron Pi, president of the Panhellenic Council, and president of the Order of Omega. “Gettysburg introduced me to communities that challenged and supported me in the best ways,” she said. Prieto learned the power of resiliency and the importance of intercultural fluency while studying abroad in Germany. After graduation, Prieto plans to work in student services, helping others find the same sense of belonging she experienced.

Bishruti (Bish) Rijal ’26 was selected to represent the Class of 2026 as the student speaker during Commencement for the Class of 2026. A biology major and neuroscience minor, Rijal studied abroad in Budapest, Hungary, during her junior year. She served as a residence coordinator (RC) and worked for the Center for Global Education (CGE). Her research experience includes serving as a research assistant in the Psychology Department and the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute at Gettysburg (X-SIG). Rijal has also provided campus tours through the Office of Admissions and engaged in programming through the Center for Public Service, Garthwait Leadership Center, and the Eisenhower Institute. She was also a member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. “I found so much of my community at Gettysburg,” she said. “I wish we had more Stoles of Gratitude because there are so many people here I’m grateful for.” Rijal is currently applying for jobs in the research tech industry, where she hopes to work in translational medicine or neurogenetics.

Emma Smith ’26 developed strong leadership skills and meaningful campus connections during her time at Gettysburg College. A psychology major, she served as president of Alpha Omicron Pi and was actively involved in the Panhellenic Council, helping foster collaboration and community within Greek life. Through these leadership roles, Smith strengthened her confidence, communication skills, and ability to support others. “Getting involved on campus helped me step outside my comfort zone and connect with people in new ways,” she said. Smith credits her campus involvement with shaping her approach to leadership and personal growth as she prepares for her next steps after graduation.

Nicole Watson ’26 embraced global learning and interdisciplinary study throughout her time at Gettysburg College. An anthropology and international and global studies major, she explored cultural and political issues while also working in the Center for Student Success, where she supported fellow students in their academic journeys. Watson was also a member of Alpha Delta Pi, studied abroad in France, and conducted archaeological excavations in Belize. Through these experiences, Watson strengthened her ability to think critically and engage with different perspectives. “Gettysburg has challenged me to think critically about the world and my place in it,” she said. After graduation, she will attend the Geneva Graduate Institute in Geneva, Switzerland, to pursue a master’s degree in international and development studies.

Michael Zrelak ’26 developed leadership, discipline, and resilience through his involvement in athletics and campus organizations at Gettysburg College. A health sciences major, he was a two-time All-Centennial Conference First Team selection at running back and rushed for over 1,000 yards while serving as team captain in his final season. Off the field, Zrelak expanded his leadership roles as vice president and president of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Through these experiences, Zrelak strengthened his communication skills and learned the importance of leading by example. “Being part of a team taught me how to lead by example and stay focused on long-term goals,” he said. After graduation, he plans to attend optometry school.