March 3, 2026
Ursuline College is pleased to announce that Sister Laura Bregar, OSU, President of the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland, will serve as the College’s 2026 Commencement speaker.
A respected leader, mentor, and student advocate, Sister Laura combines deep expertise and vision with an approachable, relatable style that inspires students to excel and lead with integrity. Her guidance and example have shaped generations of graduates, making her an enduring role model for those stepping into new challenges.
Currently serving her third term in congregational leadership and now as President of the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland, Sister Laura brings decades of experience in education, administration, ministry, and leadership. Her service includes roles as a teacher, administrator, and Director of Recruitment and Admissions at Beaumont School; principal of Ascension School in Cleveland and Our Lady of the Lake School in Euclid.
An alumna of Ursuline College, Sister Laura earned her bachelor’s degree in History and English and a master’s degree in Educational Administration from Ursuline, as well as a master’s degree in Theology from the University of Dayton. She has served on numerous local and national boards and has written and presented widely on collaboration, faith, and leadership.
It is especially fitting that an Ursuline Sister will address graduates at this historic moment. Founded in 1871 by the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland, the College will celebrate its final commencement as an independent institution before its merger with Gannon University is finalized in June 2026.
“As Ursuline College prepares to celebrate its final commencement as its own entity, this moment invites both gratitude and hope,” said Sister Laura. “We honor the generations who have been shaped here and entrust the future to graduates who are prepared to lead with courage, compassion, and faith.”
Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Sister Laura added, “The Ursuline Charism calls us to respond boldly to the needs of the time. I am honored to walk with the Class of 2026 as they step forward to serve the world with wisdom, integrity, and love.”
Ursuline College President David King emphasized the importance of the selection. “Sister Laura is a dynamic and visionary leader whose commitment to students and the community is unparalleled,” King said. “Her ability to inspire, guide, and connect with graduates makes her role in this historic commencement both powerful and meaningful.”
Ursuline College expects to graduate more than 300 undergraduate and graduate students this year, with graduates entering fields that include healthcare, business, the arts, sciences, and education. The 2026 commencement will be held May 3 at the Bert L. and Iris S. Wolstein Center. Additional details are available on the Ursuline College website.
The ceremony will celebrate the achievements of Ursuline graduates while honoring the college’s enduring legacy as it transitions to become the Ursuline College Campus of Gannon University when the full merger is completed in June.
