Meet the Graduates Defining Baruch’s Class of 2026

June 2, 2026

For the 5,500 graduates of Baruch College’s Class of 2026, their moment is more than a milestone—it’s a launch point. From different paths and perspectives, they share a determination to turn hard work into opportunity as they pursue careers across industries.

Meet some members of the Class of 2026 whose Baruch experiences helped shape who they are—and where they’re headed next.

Rateb Bagdady

Next stop: Accenture, consulting analyst

BBA Finance, Zicklin School of Business

A first-generation graduate who was a member of Baruch’s Percy E. Sutton Search for Education, Elevation and Knowledge (SEEK) Program, Bagdady will be applying the skills he developed through the Rising Starr Sophomore Program and taking on new challenges in his position at this leading global professional services company.

“My Baruch experience has been incredibly transformative. By getting involved on campus and taking advantage of available resources, I was able to grow both personally and professionally. Baruch provided the environment, support, and opportunities to build confidence, explore my interests, and prepare for my career.”

Valentina Cardenas

Next stop: New York Law School

BA Political Science, Weissman School of Arts and Sciences

Cardenas is among 77 students from Baruch’s Max Berger Pre-Law Program accepted to law school. She received a Dean’s Scholarship that will support her studies.

As a first-generation Mexican-American, Cardenas overcame language barriers early in her academic journey. Now, she is an aspiring lawyer focused on expanding equitable opportunities for marginalized communities.

“Even when obstacles stand in your way, you can overcome them. I struggled with grammar and writing in English, which are essential skills for the LSAT, but I committed myself to read more and strengthen those abilities. Now literature is one of favorite pastimes. I believe everyone should pursue their passions, equip themselves with knowledge, and follow their dreams even when others tell you differently.”

Gabrielle Ostolaza

Next stop: BNY, marketing and communications analyst

BA Business/Corporate Communications, Weissman School of Arts and Sciences

As the first person in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree, Ostolaza carried a strong sense of responsibility while attending Baruch. Living with her grandmother, she commuted two-and-a-half hours each day to attend classes.

Ostolaza was an active member of Baruch’s National Association of Black Accountants chapter for more than three years and most recently served as senior vice president. In that role, she supported initiatives focused on professional development, mentorship, and preparing students for careers in business.

“My experience at Baruch has been life-changing in ways I never expected. Beyond academics, Baruch gave me a community and a place where I truly found myself. It introduced me to opportunities and mentors that helped me grow into a more confident and purposeful person.”

Maliq Royer-Crann

Next stop: Creative Artists Agency, entry-level training program

BA Corporate Communications, Weissman School of Arts and Sciences

During his time at Baruch, the first-generation Caribbean-American made a lasting impact on campus. Royer-Crann helped organize events and workshops aimed at empowering young men of color—with a focus on Black and Latino students—through rigorous academic and personal support initiatives.

“Through my involvement in organizations like the Urban Male Leadership Academy, Undergraduate Student Government, and SEEK, I developed strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. The people I met at Baruch encouraged me to be proactive in seeking opportunities, which led me to experiences that strengthened both my professional and personal growth.”

Stanley Wang

Next stop: General Motors, financial analyst

BBA Finance, Zicklin School of Business

While participating in Zicklin’s Co-Op Program, Wang served as a regulatory compliance intern at the National Futures Association (NFA). In this role, he monitored banks involved in swap trading and reviewed compliance procedures.

Although his co-op experience led to a full-time offer from NFA, Wang chose to begin his career at General Motors as a financial analyst.

“The Co-Op Program provided valuable foundational skills that prepared me for the corporate world, including mock interviews conducted by professors and club members. I would advise current students to explore opportunities, ask questions, and connect with professionals whenever possible.”

Nicole Welch

Next stop: University of Mount Saint Vincent, assistant to the vice president for strategic enrollment and retention; enrollment coordinator

MSEd in Higher Education Administration, Marxe School of Public and International Affairs

For Welch (BA, Digital Communication ’24), the path to this achievement was defined by resilience, balance and perseverance as she successfully navigated the challenges of working full-time while completing graduate school.

Welch also began the Marxe School program in August 2024 with no previous practice in the field.

“I faced many rejections applying for jobs which was discouraging at times, but I stayed committed to the path. Eventually, I landed my first full-time position in higher education in 2025 that was a huge breakthrough. There were moments that felt overwhelming, but those challenges strengthened my confidence. Baruch opened so many doors for me, and I’m leaving feeling incredibly grateful for the mentorship, community, and experiences that shaped both my career and who I am becoming.”

Learn more: Read a recap of Baruch’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony.

Watch: View a recording of the full ceremony.