Turning Tassels Mark New Chapter for Long School of Medicine Class of 2026

For the 213 graduates of the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine, this year’s commencement signifies more than the culmination of years of rigorous study, clinical training and sacrifice. It marks the beginning of a calling grounded in service, discovery and compassion.

Surrounded by proud family members, friends, mentors and classmates, the ceremony represents a time of reflection for graduates. It marks a chance to honor the long hours spent in classrooms, simulation centers, clinics and hospitals while looking ahead toward careers devoted to healing and innovation.

Reflecting on her four years at UT San Antonio, Adah Beck said one of the most important things she will carry into the next chapter of her medical career is the sense of community. “Our faculty and residents really encourage you to picture each patient as a family member, so I want to go forward treating each of my patients like they are my family member,” said Beck. 

As graduates step into the next chapter of their careers, they do so at a transformative moment for academics and patient care at the University of Texas at San Antonio and UT Health San Antonio. Together, the merged institutions are advancing a more integrated future for education, research and clinical care. During this year’s commencement ceremony, university leaders encouraged graduates to carry forward the institution’s mission to strengthen innovation and expand impact, while helping shape the future of health care.

The Class of 2026 continues the Long School of Medicine's tradition of excellence, matching at a 98% rate to residency programs across the nation, exceeding the national average and reflecting the strength of the school's educational and clinical training environment. Of those graduates, 21% will remain in San Antonio for residency training and 59% will remain in Texas, helping bolster the physician workforce across the state and region.

This year’s commencement ceremony will symbolize more than just academic achievement for graduates. It mirrors a commitment shared by the newest generation of physicians to lead with empathy, pursue discovery and use their skills to make lives better.