Special to The Truth
Central State University, Ohio’s only public HBCU and an 1890 Land-Grant institution, proudly announces that Dr. Frederic Bertley, president and CEO of the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) and CEO of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM), will serve as the keynote speaker for the University’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony.
The ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 16, 2026, at William Patrick McPherson Memorial Stadium on Central State’s campus.
Dr. Bertley is a globally recognized, civic-minded leader, strategist, innovator, scientist, educator and communicator whose work spans science literacy, STEM workforce development and public engagement. As the fifth president and CEO of COSI, he has led transformative efforts to expand access to science education and reimagine how communities engage with STEM learning locally, nationally and around the world.
“Dr. Bertley embodies the spirit of innovation, leadership and service that we instill in our students,” said Central State University President Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti. “His global impact in science, education and community engagement makes him an inspiring voice for the Class of 2026 graduates as they prepare to lead and serve in an ever-evolving world.”
At COSI, Dr. Bertley has elevated the museum experience while extending its reach far beyond Central Ohio. His initiatives include the COSI Science Festival, The Color of Science™ and EiPIC™ programs, as well as the widely recognized COSI Connects STEM Kit Learning Lunchboxes.
He also co-created and hosted the PBS-affiliated television program “QED with Dr. B” and developed the animated digital series “Dr. B in 3.” In addition to his role at COSI, Dr. Bertley currently serves as CEO of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, where he is guiding the institution through a transformational phase.
His leadership focuses on strategic planning, expanding programming, strengthening operational efficiency and increasing the museum’s national impact, while honoring the lives and service of veterans and their families.
Dr. Bertley’s academic background reflects his deep commitment to science and research. He earned a bachelor’s degree in physiology, mathematics and the history of science, as well as a doctorate in immunology, from McGill University. He completed postdoctoral research at Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he contributed to the development of DNA vaccines for HIV/AIDS. His global health and education work spans multiple continents, including initiatives in Haiti, Sudan and the Canadian Arctic, along with STEM education programs in Barbados, Dominica, Egypt, England, India, Italy, Japan, Malta, Paraguay, Senegal and the United Arab Emirates.
A sought-after speaker, Dr. Bertley has presented at distinguished institutions including the United Nations, the White House, the National Academy of Sciences and NASA, and has contributed thought leadership to major media outlets, including Fast Company.
Central State University’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony will celebrate the achievements of its graduating class and mark a significant milestone as students transition into leadership roles across industries and communities. For more information about commencement, visit: www.centralstate.edu/commencement