The now-familiar annual site of an oversized tent canopy took shape in the parking lot of the Boulder Falls Event Center in Lebanon as Western University of Health Sciences prepared to nudge out the Class of 2026 into the world.
This year, the College of Health Sciences-Northwest graduated 33 students as doctors of physical therapy, and the COMP-Northwest graduated 101 students as doctors of osteopathic medicine.
Lebanon’s own Joshua Elzinga and his wife, Madison, were among those who earned their degrees in physical therapy. He said he is most interested in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation, helping patients recover from injuries and return to their daily activities.
“Looking back at my time at WesternU, I would describe the experience as both challenging and rewarding,” he said.
One thing that stood out most to him was being involved with the school’s Pro Bono PALS Clinic, where students work directly with helping members of the community while gaining hands-on experience as students.
“It was a meaningful part of the program and helped reinforce why I chose physical therapy,” Elzinga said.
WesternU President Robin Farias-Eisner celebrated the graduating students, noting their resilience to come through with skill, wisdom, humility and humanity.
“That matters greatly because the world needs you,” he said. “It needs healers, and you are those healers.”
The Health Resources and Services Administration declared a national health professional shortage crisis this year, driven by an aging population, escalating demand, and gaps in care, he said.
“You’re the solution to that crisis,” he said.
Farias-Eisner also celebrated all who supported the medical students through their journey, from friends and family to the faculty, staff, deans and provost, as well as those in the community – all who have mentored, inspired, led by example and been empathetic to the students.
“I encourage you to remain lifelong learners, to be courageous in your convictions, humble in your service and steadfast in your commitment to justice and human dignity,” Farias-Eisner told the graduates. “Today you’re not merely a graduate. You step forward fully into your calling.”
