Goldey-Beacom Alumnus and Healthcare Entrepreneur Kemal Erkan to Deliver 2026 Commencement Address

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

PHONE:       302-225-6261

EMAIL:        [email protected]

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DATE: April 10, 2026

WILMINGTON, DE (04/10/2026) Goldey-Beacom College (GBC) announced that Kemal Erkan, founder and chief executive officer of United Medical, LLC, will serve as keynote speaker for the College’s 139th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington, Delaware. The ceremony will begin at 11:00 a.m., with doors opening at 9:00 a.m. and the academic processional beginning at 10:45 a.m.

Erkan is widely recognized for his leadership in healthcare technology and for building one of the region’s most influential ambulatory healthcare networks. A respected healthcare executive, entrepreneur, educator, and community leader, his career spans healthcare technology, medical practice administration, and population health management. Under his leadership, United Medical has grown into one of the leading healthcare networks in Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic region, supporting more than 225 providers and serving 325,000 patients locally across more than 27 specialties and 135 medical practices nationwide.

Erkan’01, ’04, ’05, is a proud Goldey-Beacom alumnus, having earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and dual Master of Business Administration degrees in Information Technology and Finance from the College. His longstanding relationship with the institution includes serving as an adjunct professor and helping to launch healthcare-focused academic programs that prepare students for careers in the rapidly evolving healthcare industry.

“Mr. Erkan’s story is a powerful example of what can happen when determination and education come together,” said Dr. Colleen Perry Keith, president of Goldey-Beacom College. “His career reflects innovation, service, and a commitment to improving the lives of others. As an accomplished entrepreneur, he represents the power of perseverance and leadership. We are honored to welcome him back to campus to inspire the Class of 2026.”

In addition to his work in healthcare, Erkan is widely recognized for his civic engagement and philanthropic leadership. He serves as vice president of the Brandywine Valley SPCA Board, supports the Food Bank of Delaware through its Development and Food Is Medicine committees, and contributes to numerous community initiatives across the region.

Erkan has received numerous honors including the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) Lifetime Achievement Award, the MGMA Extraordinary Leader Award, the YWCA of Delaware Man of Distinction Award, and recognition as one of Delaware’s Most Impactful Business Leaders in the Delaware 222 list for 2026.

A recognized commentator on international affairs and U.S.-Turkey relations, Erkan frequently appears on international media outlets and is the creator of the UnitedTV YouTube channel, which reaches a global audience of nearly 300,000 subscribers and delivers health information and public policy insights.

About United Medical, LLC

Founded in 2005 by Kemal Erkan, United Medical began as a turnkey solution for healthcare providers focused on medical billing and healthcare information technology. Guided by Erkan’s vision for a patient-centered community healthcare model, the organization partnered with Cerner Corporation to implement an integrated electronic health records system across the United Medical Network.

Today, United Medical is one of the region’s leading private ambulatory healthcare networks, serving a nationwide client base of more than 27 specialties and 135 practices. The network connects more than 225 providers and supports the care of over 325,000 patients, using integrated health information systems to enhance coordination, improve quality of care, and reduce costs across the healthcare network.

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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