Alumnus Kemal Erkan Encourages Goldey-Beacom College Class of 2026 to Lead with Vision and Purpose

CONTACT:   Janine G. Sorbello, Dir. of Ext. Affairs

PHONE:       302-225-6261

EMAIL:        [email protected]

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DATE: May 11, 2026

Wilmington, DE (05/11/2026) — Goldey-Beacom College (GBC) celebrated its 139th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Chase Center on the Riverfront, marking a milestone moment during the College’s 140th anniversary year. A total of 352 students received degrees, representing 11 states and 44 countries, reflecting the global reach of the institution.

Degrees conferred included five doctoral degrees, 141 master’s degrees, 167 bachelor’s degrees, 10 associate degrees, and 34 graduate certificates, highlighting the diverse academic programs that prepare students for careers in business, technology, and helping professions.

Preceding the commencement ceremony, President Colleen Perry Keith presented featured speaker Kemal Erkan ’01, ’04, ’05 with an honorary Doctor of Business Administration Degree. The honor has been formally approved by the Goldey-Beacom College Honorary Degree Committee with all appropriate honors, rights, privileges and responsibilities.

Drawing on his own journey from international student to business leader, Dr. Erkan reminded graduates that their education had prepared them not only to enter the workforce but also to shape the future of their industries. He encouraged graduates to embrace opportunities, remain adaptable, and pursue meaningful impact through their work.

He shared three guiding principles for success:

* Think Beyond Boundaries – Remain curious and open to new ideas – innovation often comes from looking beyond traditional limits and exploring new possibilities.

* Commit to Lifelong Learning – In a rapidly changing world shaped by technology and global connections, continuously expand your knowledge and skills.

* Lead with Integrity and Purpose – Success is built not only on professional achievement but also on character, service, and the positive impact individuals have on their communities.

President Colleen Perry Keith congratulated the Class of 2026 and reflected on the significance of the moment for both the graduates and the College. “Today we celebrate the achievements of our graduates and the bright futures that lie ahead of them,” said Dr. Keith. “As Goldey-Beacom marks its 140th anniversary year, we are proud to see our students carrying forward the values of perseverance, innovation, and service that have defined this institution for generations.”

Dr. Kemal Erkan, MBA, FACMPE, founder and Chief Executive Officer of United Medical, LLC, and chairman of United Medical ACO delivered the keynote address. A respected healthcare entrepreneur and Goldey-Beacom alumnus, Dr. Erkan shared insights from his career building one of the region’s leading ambulatory healthcare networks and advancing innovative healthcare technologies.

Dr. Erkan, a Goldey-Beacom alumnus who earned two MBA degrees in Information Technology and Finance from the College, spoke about the importance of determination and global perspective in today’s interconnected world.

Under his leadership, United Medical has grown into a multi-specialty healthcare network serving more than 27 specialties and 135 practices nationwide, supporting more than 180 providers and hundreds of thousands of patients. His work has helped expand electronic medical records adoption and improve healthcare management systems throughout the region.

In addition to his professional achievements, Dr. Erkan is widely recognized for his philanthropic and community leadership, serving on numerous nonprofit boards and supporting initiatives focused on healthcare, education, and humanitarian relief.

About Goldey-Beacom College

Founded in 1886, Goldey-Beacom College has approximately 1,100 students enrolled from 29 states and 65 nations. The College offers 48 degree options in its graduate and undergraduate programs with majors in psychology, economics, criminal justice, communication & media, human services, English, and all areas of business, including accounting, business administration, entrepreneurship and finance.

The College is committed to connecting its graduates with careers in their respective fields. For over a decade, the College has long boasted a more than 90% positive outcome rate for graduates. Goldey-Beacom College is in Pike Creek Valley, a suburb of Wilmington, Delaware. The College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

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