Allen College Proudly Celebrates the Class of December 2025
January 29, 2026
January 2026 – WATERLOO, Iowa – Allen College proudly celebrated the accomplishments of 60 graduates during its commencement ceremony on December 19, 2025. These graduates represent the Class of December 2025 (commencement program) and the next generation of compassionate, skilled professionals ready to make a meaningful impact in healthcare and communities across the region and beyond.
Allen College conferred 2 Bachelor of Health Sciences in Public Health degrees, 24 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees, 10 Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degrees, 11 Master of Science in Nursing degrees, 7 Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees and 6 Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees.
The College recognizes the academic achievements of the following graduates:
- **Summa Cum Laude (3.9 and above)**
Abigail Maitre, Kierstin Morrow and Kaylee Odendahl
- **Magna Cum Laude (3.71-3.89)**
Katelyn Hyland, Emma Kapler and Sophia Reeves
- **Cum Laude (3.5-3.7)**
Aaliyah Gordon, Avery Krapfl, Aubrey Kriegel, Ellie Maakestad, Kristin Manion, Hannah Teslow, Kora Thomsen and Megan VandeNoord
During the ceremony, Allen College conferred an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree on Pamela Delagardelle in recognition of her exceptional service to Allen College and UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital, as well as her dedication to healthcare education and patient care in the Cedar Valley. With more than 40 years of experience as a nurse, assistant professor at Allen College and healthcare administrator, Pamela has been a transformative leader and steadfast advocate for access to high-quality care. in the region.
As the former President and CEO of UnityPoint Health – Waterloo, Pamela was a steadfast advocate for Allen College and its graduates. Her leadership supported significant growth and campus development, including the construction of Winter Hall, renovation of Allen Hospital’s fifth floor for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, and acquisition of McElroy Hall. She also championed employment pathways for students at Allen Hospital through initiatives such as the Legacy Program, which provides financial support for BSN students in exchange for a work commitment at Allen Hospital.
The commencement address was delivered by Sarah Brown, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at UnityPoint Health. Sarah, a two-time Allen College alumna, has served UnityPoint Health since 2007 in a wide range of clinical, academic and executive leadership roles. Known for innovation and dedication to caregiver engagement, leadership development and advancing nursing practice, Sarah offered graduates an inspiring message as they begin their professional journeys.
Allen College congratulates the Class of 2025 and looks forward to the positive difference these graduates will make as healthcare providers, leaders, educators and advocates in communities near and far.
