Surrounded by a room full of their friends and families, the UCSF Master’s in Global Health Sciences class of 2026 received their diplomas at the commencement ceremony on July 23, 2026.
“This graduating class has been inspiring in their commitment to health equity, resilience, and idealism in the face of unprecedented global health challenges,” said Sujatha Sankaran, MD, Director of the IGHS Master’s in Global Health Sciences Program.
After a rigorous year of classes, research, and travel, these 25 graduates are eager to address some of the world’s most pressing health challenges and inequities. The IGHS community is both proud and excited to see what this remarkable group of emerging global health leaders will do next.
This year’s commencement speaker was Susan Burton, host, writer, reporter, and co-producer of the Peabody Award-winning podcast The Retrievals. Burton’s address focused on the importance of storytelling in healthcare and global health.
“Whether you’re explaining why someone should care about data or fund a project, whether you’re trying to get colleagues to change a clinical practice or lawmakers to consider a policy shift, storytelling is one of your most important tools,” she said.
Outstanding Student and Mentor Awards
As part of the ceremony, students and faculty were recognized for their outstanding achievements through the IGHS Education Awards.
The UCSF Master of Science in Global Health program established two awards in honor of John L. Ziegler, the founding director of the program, upon his retirement in 2013. The John L. Ziegler Outstanding Capstone Award celebrates the hard work that students engage in to complete their capstone projects. The prize is awarded to a student who has demonstrated excellent research skills and produced a masterful written capstone and oral presentation. This year, it was awarded to Benjamin De Wilde and Zoe Smith.
The John L. Ziegler Outstanding Mentor Award recognizes the impact that mentors have on the student experience and is chosen by the students. This year, it was awarded to Mia Konjikusic, PhD.
The Madhavi Dandu Leadership Award was established in 2022 to honor Dr. Dandu’s decade at the helm of the master’s program. This award celebrates cultural humility, intellectual curiosity, compassion and natural leadership qualities. This year, it was awarded to Benjamin De Wilde.
Congratulations to all the graduates!
This program prepares students for a successful and rewarding future in global health; learn more about the Master’s in Global Health Sciences on our website.
Photos by Cindy Chew