A Legacy of Mercy: Saint Joseph’s College Celebrates Commencement 2026

STANDISH, ME — Under a bright spring sky and the signature white tent behind the Alfond Center, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine celebrated its 2026 Commencement on Saturday, May 9th. The ceremony honored the resilience and achievements of the graduating class while paying tribute to a local leader who personifies the College’s mission of compassionate service.

Honoring a Champion of Compassionate Leadership

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of an honorary degree, the College’s highest distinction, to Melissa Skahan, Vice President of Mission Integration and Support Services at Northern Light Mercy Hospital.

Skahan, whose career spans two decades of transformative leadership in Greater Portland, was recognized for her work with the most vulnerable populations. Her efforts have been instrumental in the success of the McAuley Residence, where 95% of participants reunite with their children, as well as the Frances Warde housing program and Gary’s House.

“Melissa’s life and work embody our core values of Faith, Excellence, Integrity, Community, Respect, Compassion, and Justice,” said Joseph Cassidy, President of Saint Joseph’s College. “Her leadership has not only expanded the walls of Mercy Hospital but has built a foundation of hope for families navigating homelessness, recovery, and pregnancy without stable housing.”

In a poignant moment of “Mercy in Action,” Skahan was joined by the Sisters of Mercy following her address, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the College’s founders and their continued impact on modern healthcare and education.

A Weekend of Tradition and Gratitude

The Saturday ceremony served as the pinnacle of a week filled with milestones:

• The Baccalaureate Mass: On Friday May 8th, the Mass provided a spiritual pause for the community to offer thanks for the blessings received during the students’ education and to pray for guidance as they transition into the alumni community.
• The Nursing Pinning Ceremony: Following the Baccalaureate Mass, the nursing department held its deeply moving pinning ceremony. This rite of passage transitioned students into professional healers, a fitting tribute to the College’s strong ties to the healthcare community and Northern Light Mercy Hospital.
• The Online Reception: This special evening event brought together online learners who turned to SJC to advance their degrees and careers. Demonstrating the incredible reach of our community, graduates traveled from 18 different states to visit Maine, step onto campus, and celebrate their commencement milestones in person.

Welcome to the Alumni Family

As the Class of 2026 tossed their caps, they joined a global network of Saint Joseph’s alumni. Whether they studied on the shores of Sebago Lake or through the College’s extensive online programs, these graduates leave prepared to lead with a “search for truth” at the heart of their professional lives.

Relive the Celebration

The Office of Marketing & Communications has released the official photo galleries for all Commencement events, including the Pinning Ceremony, Baccalaureate Mass, and the Main Commencement Exercises.

📸 View and Download Photos Here: https://sjcme.passgallery.com/portfolio

About Saint Joseph’s College of Maine Founded in 1912 by the Sisters of Mercy, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine is the state’s only Catholic liberal arts college. Located in Standish, Maine, the college offers over 40 undergraduate programs and 22 Division III athletic teams, serving both on-campus students and over 2,000 online learners globally. Learn more at www.sjcme.edu.

About Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Founded in 1912 by the Sisters of Mercy, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine is the state’s only Catholic liberal arts college. Located on the shores of Sebago Lake in Standish, Maine, the college offers a diverse, inclusive community focused on compassion, justice, and environmental stewardship. The college’s 382-acre campus includes 2,500 feet of waterfront and is committed to sustainability.

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine offers more than 40 undergraduate programs and 22 Division III athletic teams for approximately 800 on-campus students, along with certificates, undergraduate, and graduate degrees to over 2,000 working adults online, both in the U.S. and internationally. Learn more at www.sjcme.edu.