May 29, 2026 — Fountain Blue · Des Plaines, IL
A celebration of perseverance, excellence, and the beginning of a lifetime of healing.
2026
Graduating Class
68
Graduates
27+
Years of Excellence
96.1%
Residency Placements
Keynote Address
Internationally recognized urologist, surgeon-scientist, and educator at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine — the Patrick C. Walsh Professor of Urology within the James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has become a global authority in prostate cancer surgery, male sexual dysfunction, and reconstructive urology.
His groundbreaking research identified nitric oxide as a key mediator of penile erection, paving the way for oral therapies such as Viagra. He has published more than 500 scientific articles in journals including Science, Nature Medicine, and The New England Journal of Medicine, and founded the humanitarian organization UroMissionsWorks.
500+
Publications
40+
Years in Medicine
The Evening
The evening opened with a formal academic procession, as faculty and graduates marched together in full regalia — a powerful reminder of the dedication and sacrifice that brought each graduate to this defining moment.
Drawing from decades of experience in medicine and research, the distinguished Johns Hopkins professor challenged the Class of 2026 to lead with both excellence and compassion throughout their careers.
Graduates recited the Hippocratic Oath under the guidance of Dr. Thiendella Diagne — the symbolic transition from medical student to physician, and a commitment each graduate carries for life.
One by one, each graduate crossed the stage to receive their Doctor of Medicine degree — the culmination of years of relentless study, clinical training, and personal sacrifice.
Drs. Kelley Hurley, Jennifer Locke, and Dawn Zuidgeest-Craft shared heartfelt reflections that captured the resilience, camaraderie, and determination that defined the Class of 2026.
Graduates, families, and faculty gathered for a celebratory reception filled with laughter and long-awaited reunions — a joyful moment of shared pride.
Photo Gallery
Relive the best moments from the Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony.
Full Ceremony
Couldn't make it in person? Relive every moment of the Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony.
What Comes Next
SJSM graduates go on to residencies across the United States and Canada, building remarkable careers in medicine.
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