St. George’s University School of Medicine celebrated the accomplishments of its newest graduates during its 45th annual commencement ceremonies, held May 16–17 at the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Across three ceremonies, members of the Class of 2026 marked the culmination of their medical education journey, surrounded by proud family members, friends, faculty, and distinguished guests.
Did you miss the ceremonies? Relive SOM Commencement 2026.
View SOM Commencement Ceremony
Addressing the graduates, Dr. Marios Loukas, president of SGU and dean of the School of Medicine, commended the Class of 2026 for their resilience and commitment.
“Today, we celebrate not only your accomplishments, but the resilience, discipline, and purpose that brought you here,” Dr. Loukas said. “Each one of you has overcome challenges, made sacrifices, and pushed beyond what you once thought possible, and that is what makes this moment so meaningful.”
“Medicine is evolving faster than ever before, and artificial intelligence will be a powerful part of that future,” added Dr. Loukas. “AI will not replace physicians, but physicians who use AI will transform the practice of medicine. So, learn the tools. Embrace innovation. But never outsource your humanity to an algorithm. When data and instinct don’t align, ask questions, listen more closely, and always put your patient first. You are the physician. The AI is the calculator. You are still the mathematician.”
A milestone moment for SGU
During the ceremonies, Dr. Charles R. Modica, SGU’s founding chancellor, delivered heartfelt remarks reflecting on both the graduates’ achievements and a historic moment for the University.
“This moment is always deeply meaningful for me,” said Dr. Modica. “This year, even more so, as St. George’s University approaches its 50th anniversary. What began as a bold and, at the time, improbable dream has grown into something extraordinary, and that progress is because of students like you.”
“Fifty years ago, it was individuals with the same determination, the same calling, and the same belief in themselves who helped build this University. You carry that legacy forward today,” he added.
“It is the greatest privilege of my life to stand before you and address you for the first time as ‘Doctor.’ That title is not just a recognition of your achievement; it is a reflection of the trust the world now places in you.”
Honoring a legacy of service
A highlight of the ceremonies was the presentation of Distinguished Service Awards to three individuals whose contributions to healthcare, education, and SGU have left a lasting mark.
Dr. Dolland Noel was honored during the first ceremony for his nearly three decades of service to medicine in Grenada and across the Caribbean. A respected physician, educator, and healthcare leader, Dr. Noel played a critical role in strengthening care at Grenada General Hospital as longtime head of the Department of Medicine. He also provided key leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of the national response. At SGU, he has mentored generations of students and helped shape clinical education as associate dean of Clinical Studies, Caribbean. His work advancing continuing medical education and establishing initiatives such as Grenada’s Adult Sickle Cell Clinic has transformed patient care across the region. The presentation of his award was particularly meaningful, with the participation of the Prime Minister of Grenada, the Honorable Dickon Mitchell, underscoring the national impact of his service.
Margaret “Peggy” Lambert, former vice president and dean of Enrollment Planning, was recognized during the second ceremony for her extraordinary contributions over nearly five decades at SGU. As one of the University’s earliest leaders, she helped build and shape core areas including admissions, the registrar, and marketing and communications. Her leadership guided SGU through critical periods of growth and global expansion, including the development of the then Global Scholars Program with Northumbria University and support for the founding of Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation (WINDREF). Her vision and dedication have played a defining role in SGU’s evolution into a globally recognized institution.
Randy Becker, MD ’00, was honored during the third ceremony for his impactful career in radiology and longstanding humanitarian efforts in Grenada. Over more than 20 years, Dr. Becker has led initiatives to modernize diagnostic imaging across the island, including introducing digital radiology systems and expanding access to ultrasound services. Most notably, he spearheaded the installation of Grenada’s first comprehensive 3D mammography system, an advancement that has significantly improved early detection of breast cancer. Through his work with the SGU Physician Humanitarian Network (SGU PHuN) and beyond, Dr. Becker has made a lasting difference in healthcare access and outcomes throughout the Caribbean.
Reflecting on the honorees, Dr. Modica added:
“These distinguished individuals exemplify the very best of what it means to serve, through leadership, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to improving lives. Their contributions have strengthened not only this University, but healthcare in communities around the world.”
From MD to residency: The next chapter
During each ceremony, graduates formally transitioned from students to physicians as Chancellor Modica conferred their degrees. They were then hooded and joined faculty and physicians in reciting the School of Medicine’s Academic Oath, affirming their lifelong commitment to patient care, integrity, and service.
The Class of 2026 now joins a global network of more than 25,000 SGU School of Medicine alumni, continuing the University’s mission of advancing healthcare worldwide. This summer, over 800 students and graduates will begin residency programs in more than 40 states and the District of Columbia, securing positions in 23 specialties.
“Today, you are no longer students, you are physicians,” Dr. Loukas said in his closing remarks. “Take care of yourselves as you care for others. This profession demands a great deal, and you cannot give what you do not have. Your well-being matters, not only for you, but for every patient you will serve.”
“I want you to know how proud we are of you. It would be an honor to have you as my doctor. The world needs you, and it needs you now. Congratulations, doctors!”
