Post by Brown University

In keeping with Brown’s tradition of elevating student voices during Commencement and Reunion Weekend, the Graduate Student Council selected Kenia Collins and Melanie Ortiz Alvarez de la Campa as the University’s 2026 graduate student speakers. Collins, who will earn a master of science in health care leadership, and Ortiz Alvarez de la Campa, a Ph.D. candidate in pathobiology, have each focused their work on expanding access — from reimagining systems of care to making science more inclusive. In separate remarks at the master’s and doctoral ceremonies on Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, respectively, Collins and Ortiz Alvarez de la Campa will address their peers, as well as thousands of family members and friends.