June 26 marked the graduation of 199 students, bringing to a close five years of academic achievement, personal growth, and shared experiences. Joined by families, faculty, trustees, alumni, and distinguished guests, the Class of 2026 gathered on the Konak Terrace for the school’s 159th Commencement Exercises, a ceremony that recognized not only individual accomplishments but also the values that define a Robert College education.
The ceremony was honored by the participation of Beşiktaş District Governor Oğuzhan Bingöl, whose remarks underscored the importance of education, responsibility, and public service. He was joined by Turkish Director Nilhan Çetinyamaç, and Head of School Whitman Shepard, whose addresses reflected on the resilience, curiosity, and sense of purpose that had shaped the graduating class throughout their years at Robert College.
This year’s keynote address was delivered by İpek Üstündağ RC 82, Chair of the Board of Şenpiliç and a long-standing supporter of Robert College. Speaking more than four decades after her own graduation, she encouraged students to carry three guiding principles into the future: justice, courage, and kindness. Reflecting on the lasting influence of her own Robert College education, she reminded graduates that success is measured not only by achievement but by character, and encouraged them to remain connected to the school while supporting future generations, just as those before them had done.
One of the defining moments of every commencement is the presentation of student awards, recognizing excellence in academics, the arts, athletics, leadership, service, and community life. It is always uplifting to have alumni and trustees back on campus to present these awards, reinforcing the enduring bond between generations of Robert College graduates. This year’s ceremony also introduced several newly established named awards, including the Baruh Family Social Sciences Award, the Hüseyin Tığlı Award, and the Yırcalı Family Community Involvement Program Award, reflecting the generosity of alumni families and their continued investment in student excellence.
As graduates turned their tassels, sang the Robert College School Song, and tossed their caps into the air, they officially joined generations of Robert College alumni around the world. Their years as students had come to a close, but their lifelong connection to Robert College was just beginning.
