CHESTERTOWN — Former two-term Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan thrusts his diploma in the air as a proud member of Washington College’s Class of 2026 during commencement on Sunday, while chairman of the college’s Board of Visitors and Governors Richard T. “Rick” Wheeler ’86, left, and college President Bryan Matthews ’75 show their approval.
Hogan received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of his career in public service.
In his commencement address, the former governor announced the establishment of The Hogan Institute at Washington College.
The nonpartisan initiative, which will launch its formal programming in the fall, will promote leadership rooted in character, respect for institutions and the discipline to work across differences in pursuit of the common good.
“When we look back at George Washington and the leaders who have shaped this country, we can’t help but yearn for something better and more noble than the politics of today,” Hogan said in his address to the graduates.
He said the new initiative “will be dedicated to preparing the next generation of citizen leaders and renewing the idea that public service is about a commitment to something greater than ourselves and honoring the trust of those we serve.”
The Hogan Institute at Washington College will offer programming focused on leadership development, civil discourse and real-world problem-solving.
— Photo by Trish McGee
