F&M Stories
Incoming Class Encouraged to Chart New Paths at Convocation
Lined up under a cerulean sky, members of the Franklin & Marshall College Class of 2026 began their F&M journeys by walking into Convocation Aug. 30.
The time-honored event signifies not only the start of those journeys, but also the beginning of the College's academic year.
Faculty and professional staff gathered outside the Alumni Sports & Fitness Center to applaud the 495 first-year and transfer students proceeding toward the ceremony.
"Stretch in every possible way— right now, in your first days and weeks here, and then throughout your career at F&M," President Barbara Altmann said to the incoming class.
"You can stretch intellectually, socially, physically, to reach far beyond what you already know, and it will make you a wiser, better, more effective citizen of the world," she added.
Senior Kyra Caffrey, president of Diplomatic Congress and the student body, shared a similar sentiment.
"Three years ago, I was sitting in your seat. I had my whole life planned out," she said.
Exploring various academic disciplines "provided me with the opportunity to engage in new ways of thinking," said Caffrey, who added government to her existing biology major after a chance encounter with the subject.
Caffrey shared the stage with Professor of Chemistry Jennifer Morford, who urged students to embrace the unknown in their time at F&M.
"In discomfort, there is a spark," Morford said.
Class of 2026 at a Glance:
- 495 enrolled
- 34% admit rate
- 30 states represented
- 34 countries of citizenship
- 17% first-generation college students
- 11% PELL grant eligible
- Meet the incoming class
Related Articles
February 26, 2026
Carrying a Torch for Inorganic Chemistry
While his uncle was among thousands chosen to carry the Olympic torch to the Milano Cortina Winter Games, Davide Lionetti was in the classroom, enlightening his students about processes of inorganic chemistry
February 24, 2026
Brett Harwood ’71 Makes $1 Million Gift to Support Jewish Life, Student Experience
A transformational gift of $1 million from Brett Harwood ’71 will support F&M’s vibrant Jewish life programming, foster campus dialogue, fund a faculty position and boost the College’s student retention efforts.
February 24, 2026
F&M Alumnae Power Students’ Future Success in Finance
A recent gift from two F&M leaders provides annual funding for hands-on career experiences.