Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan Named 2026 Washington College Commencement Speaker
Washington College has officially announced that former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan will serve as the keynote speaker for its 243rd Commencement ceremony. The event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
The announcement follows a comprehensive visit by Hogan to the Chestertown campus on November 25, 2025. During his visit, the former governor engaged with faculty and staff, focusing on themes of leadership, public service, and the college’s commitment to regional economic development and entrepreneurship.
A Legacy of Leadership and Civic Engagement
Washington College Interim President Bryan Matthews ’75 expressed enthusiasm for Hogan’s selection, noting the alignment between the speaker’s background and the institution’s core values.
“Governor Hogan’s record of leadership, his deep connection to Maryland, and his enduring admiration for President George Washington make him an ideal voice to inspire our graduates as they step into the future,” said Matthews.
Matthews further emphasized that the college remains dedicated to its mission of “educating citizens for the vital task of democracy,” a goal he believes Hogan’s career reflects.
Campus Tour and Institutional Focus
During his November visit, Hogan toured several key academic and developmental sites on the Chestertown campus. These facilities represent the college’s strategic focus on innovation and the study of the American experience. Key locations visited included:
- The Innovation Plant: A hub for fostering entrepreneurship.
- The future Warehime School of Business: A site central to the college’s efforts in regional economic development.
- The Starr Center for the Study of the American Experience: An academic center focused on historical and civic study.
- The Center for Environment and Society: A facility dedicated to environmental research and education.
The visit also included meetings with various campus leaders, including the Chair of the Board of Visitors and Governors and the incoming Chestertown Mayor, Meghan Efland.
Key Takeaways for the 2026 Commencement
- Speaker: Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan.
- Event: Washington College 243rd Commencement Ceremony.
- Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026.
- Location: Chestertown, Maryland.
- Themes: Leadership, civic engagement, and public service.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Washington College 2026 commencement take place?
The ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Who is the keynote speaker for the ceremony?
Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan has been named the commencement speaker.
What is the significance of Larry Hogan’s visit to the campus?
Hogan visited the campus in November 2025 to meet with faculty and staff and to tour various academic centers, including the Innovation Plant and the Starr Center for the Study of the American Experience, ahead of his 2026 speaking engagement.