F&M Stories
Your Core is 'The Source of Your Passion,' Speaker Tells Graduates
Franklin & Marshall College alumna Dr. Rahel Nardos '97, director of global health for Oregon Health & Science University's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, offered graduates at F&M's May 12 Commencement a perspective on her experiences growing up poor in Ethiopia.
"They were responsible for making me who I am today, what I chose to care about, how I define success, and how hard I am willing to work for it," said Nardos, who supports a women's health program in sub-Saharan Africa."What experiences shape your internal compass? What speaks to you at your core? Take time to find the answers to these questions," she told the Class of 2019. "They will be the source of your passion, your fulfillment and your resilience in the face of obstacles."
Robed in black, 540 students — including 94 international students from 28 countries and 97 first-generation students, crossed Hartman Green on a bright, blue, breezy day to ascend the stage where F&M President Barbara Altmann presented the graduates with their hard-earned baccalaureates.
View the highlights of a day that celebrated achievement:
Related Articles
June 1, 2026
F&M Computer Science Grad Lands Job at Google
At F&M, Shahina Tojieva ’25 cultivated world-ready skills to seamlessly transition from Diplomat to Google software engineer. “My time at F&M equipped me with the essential toolkit to navigate unfamiliar environments and overcome post-collegiate hurdles through a liberal arts lens,” she said.
May 27, 2026
Faculty Earn Recognition Across Range of Academic Fields
This academic year, faculty members across various disciplines received numerous grant and fellowship opportunities, with several award announcements still pending. Faculty and staff have been recognized both nationally and globally for their contributions to a range of academic fields.
May 25, 2026
Student Peace Award Winner to Use Nature to Transform Lives
Sarahna Khadka '28 is in Nepal this summer, working to help low-income women learn financial literacy and start a small business. Her project won the Davis Foundation Project for Peace award and $10,000 in funding.