05/22/2026
Driven by compassion. Leading with confidence.
Duquesne University School of Nursing 2026 Spring Commencement BSN student speaker Joshua Stewart is prepared for anything, thanks to faculty that walked alongside him and immersive nursing clinical rotations at UPMC and Allegheny Health Network.
After graduating last week, Joshua heads just up the street to Oakland to begin a position at UPMC Presbyterian on their Pulmonary Transplant / Pulmonary Stepdown Unit.
He was drawn to Duquesne and the Bluff from rural Kane, Pa. after visiting campus for a tour. “I immediately fell in love with the atmosphere and location of campus. I knew the School of Nursing would become my home for the next four years when I looked into the curriculum and clinical hours we would obtain.”
Now having lived in Pittsburgh for four years, Joshua now calls it home. “Pittsburgh provides both a big city atmosphere while feeling close-knit! Whenever I needed a change of scenery, Pittsburgh has events, restaurants or coffee shops to explore. The views of the city never get old and there is always something to do,” he said.
In reflecting on his Duquesne experience, Joshua noted in his Commencement speech that, “we all arrived here from different paths but with the same purpose, to serve, to heal, to make an impact.”
“We have the ability to help others heal, find hope and feel comfort in the moments that matter the most. We turn our tassels and leave Duquesne today, with able hands, capable minds and compassionate hearts. It would be a disservice not to use all that we have gained to serve others.”