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David Rubenstein, co-founder of The Carlyle Group and owner of the Baltimore Orioles, headlined the Eisenhower Institute’s 24th annual Blavatt Lecture at Gettysburg College, connecting the enduring lessons of the Declaration of Independence to leadership, service, and civic responsibility.

With sunshine glistening off the white columns on the Beachem Portico of Pennsylvania Hall, Gettysburg College celebrated the Class of 2026 during its 191st Commencement ceremony, honoring 553 graduates whose journeys to Gettysburg began in communities across the country and around the world. Together, the graduates represented 30 countries, reflecting the breadth, talent, and promise of a class shaped by curiosity, perseverance, and connection.

From student-athletes and campus advocates to researchers, writers, and public servants, the Gettysburg College’s Class of 2026 reflects the impact of a liberal arts education shaped by meaningful relationships, hands-on experiences, and a strong sense of community.

Gettysburg College will award four honorary degrees at its Class of 2026 Commencement ceremony, recognizing the achievements of alumna Kate Anderson ’09, policy strategist Susan Eisenhower, arts leader Chad Smith, and historian James G. Basker.

Gettysburg College will confer four honorary degrees during its 191st Commencement ceremony on May 16, recognizing individuals whose professional achievements, leadership, and service embody the College’s mission to educate students for lives of impact.

Gettysburg College has received a $9.45 million gift from the estates of Bruce Baky ’65 and Sherrin Hilburt Baky-Nessler ’65, P’01, celebrating the couple’s loyal devotion to the College and advancing faculty excellence, innovation, and student opportunity across several academic priorities. With this estate gift, the couple’s total giving to Gettysburg will exceed $9.7 million, placing them among the College’s most impactful benefactors.

Through the Blavatt Lecture, Gettysburg College engages leading voices to examine foundational democratic ideals in a modern context, with David M. Rubenstein’s lecture reinforcing the College’s commitment to informed citizenship and civil discourse.

David M. Rubenstein, renowned investor, philanthropist, historian and civic leader, will serve as the featured speaker for the 24th annual Blavatt Lecture, hosted by the Eisenhower Institute at Gettysburg College, on Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 7 p.m. in Masters Hall’s Mara Auditorium. The event is free and open to the public.

Through the expertise, creativity, and leadership of its faculty, students, staff, and alumni, Gettysburg College continues to shape national conversations, deepen learning beyond the classroom, and extend its influence across communities, industries, and disciplines.