Jay Sidhu to deliver Alvernia University 2026 Commencement address

Banking executive and leadership speaker to share message of resilience and authentic leadership with graduates

Alvernia University announces that Jay Sidhu, executive chairman of Customers Bancorp, Inc. and Customers Bank, will serve as the keynote speaker at the university’s 2026 Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Santander Arena in downtown Reading.

“Jay Sidhu’s remarkable journey and bold leadership embody the resilience, humility and purpose we strive to instill in every Alvernia graduate,” said President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “His message will inspire the Class of 2026 to lead with integrity, pursue lifelong growth and use their talents to make a meaningful difference in the world.”

A recognized leader in the banking industry, Sidhu has guided organizations through periods of significant growth and transformation. Prior to joining Customers, he served as chairman and CEO of Sovereign Bancorp, Inc., where he led the organization’s expansion from an initial public offering of $12 million to a market cap approaching $12 billion. He is also the author of Never Ever, Ever Give Up and is a frequent speaker on leadership and emotional intelligence, including appearances at United States Military Academy at West Point and global leadership forums.

“I’m honored to join Alvernia for Commencement and celebrate students who have worked hard to achieve an important milestone,” said Sidhu. “I look forward to sharing lessons about resilience, authentic leadership and the responsibility we all have to lift others as we pursue success.”

Sidhu’s connection to Alvernia includes welcoming the university’s incoming first-year and transfer students during fall 2025, where he encouraged the Class of 2029 to “dream big, stay true” and to “never ever, ever give up.”

Recent commencement keynote speakers have included Cherelle L. Parker (2025), George S. Rice Jr. (2024), John R. Loyack (2023), Judy Schwank (2022), Thomas E. Beeman (2020 & 2021), Thomas F. Flynn (2019) and John Hope Bryant (2018).

Alvernia’s 2026 Commencement ceremony will celebrate graduates from May 2026, December 2025 and August 2025. A full schedule of Commencement and recognition events, including baccalaureate and pinning ceremonies, is available on the university’s commencement website.