Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) returned to E.J. Thomas Hall in Akron Saturday, May 2, 2026, for its 46th commencement ceremony. It was a day to celebrate the years of dedication and achievements of the 306 graduates as they crossed the stage to receive their M.D., Pharm.D., Ph.D.s, and other degrees to enter the healthcare professions.

Of the 306 graduates, 164 received their M.D. from the College of Medicine, 58 received their Pharm.D. from the College of Pharmacy, while the College of Graduate Studies conferred 86 degrees and six certificates. Two students earned dual degrees. NEOMED’s Bitonte College of Dentistry welcomed its first class in August.

Seven graduates were also honored with a military pinning ceremony, and were presented by NEOMED provost and senior vice president, Forrest Faison III, M.D., who is the retired vice admiral of the Medical Corps for the U.S. Navy.

“Your degree from NEOMED is far more than a credential,” said NEOMED President John T. Langell, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., M.B.A. “It is a declaration – one that signals to the world that you are ready to take on the complexity, the uncertainty, and the urgency of modern healthcare. And not just ready to meet those challenges – but ready to lead the way.”

Amol Soin, M.D., owner and medical director of the Ohio Pain Clinic and a 2002 graduate of NEOMED, addressed the graduates as keynote speaker.

“The future of medicine is not just about what you know,” said Dr. Soin. “It is about who you are. It is about the humanity you carry into every room, every diagnosis, every difficult conversation. Your knowledge makes you capable. You compassion makes you unforgettable.”

Cliff Deveny, M.D., advisor and emeritus CEO of Summa Health, was the recipient of an honorary degree from NEOMED for his years of service to Northeast Ohio’s healthcare system.

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