Shirin Aghakhani Named Palo Alto University's Inaugural Student Commencement Speaker

Palo Alto University (PAU) is proud to announce that Shirin Aghakhani, a graduating student in the PhD in Clinical Psychology program, has been selected as the 2026 student commencement speaker.

As PAU celebrates its 50th anniversary and prepares to honor the Class of 2026, Aghakhani will take the commencement stage on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Mountain Winery in Saratoga, California, alongside keynote speaker and PAU alumnus Jonah Paquette, PsyD, marking a historic milestone for the university and its graduates. 

For Aghakhani, the moment represents the culmination of a remarkable academic journey that began as an undergraduate student at PAU. After earning her bachelor's degree in Psychology and Social Action, she continued her education through the university's PhD in Clinical Psychology program, building a legacy of leadership, scholarship, mentorship, and service along the way.

"PAU has genuinely become such a huge part of who I am," said Aghakhani. "One of the best things about being here for as many years as I have has been watching the people around me grow and seeing myself grow with them."

Throughout her time at PAU, Aghakhani has embraced opportunities to contribute to the university community. As an undergraduate, she served as President of the Undergraduate Student Council, advocating for initiatives that enhanced the student experience and strengthened student engagement. During her doctoral studies, she continued to invest in the success of others through teaching, mentorship, research, and leadership.

Her academic work has focused on improving access to mental health resources and supporting youth through innovative interventions. Building upon research conducted in PAU's laboratories, Aghakhani has contributed to projects exploring how technology can be used to better support young people with autism, while also pursuing clinical training focused on serving children, adolescents, and families.
Beyond her academic accomplishments, Aghakhani has become known for her dedication to fostering connection and community. Whether supporting students as a teaching assistant, mentoring future clinicians, or teaching courses of her own, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to helping others learn, grow, and succeed.

As she prepares to address fellow graduates, Aghakhani hopes to celebrate not only their academic accomplishments, but also the growth, perseverance, relationships, and sense of purpose that have carried them to this milestone.

Her journey from undergraduate student to doctoral candidate, researcher, educator, and commencement speaker exemplifies the transformative impact of higher education and the strength of the PAU community. As the university's first student commencement speaker, she represents both the achievements of the Class of 2026 and the promise of the generations of students who will follow.

Celebrate with the PAU Community

Commencement 2026 will take place on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Mountain Winery in Saratoga, California.

This year's ceremony will also feature keynote speaker Jonah Paquette, PsyD, distinguished clinical psychologist, author, and PAU alumnus whose career reflects the lasting impact of a PAU education.

Visit the Commencement 2026 webpage for ceremony information, graduate resources, event details, and important updates.