Sacred Heart Greenwich Announces 177th Commencement Speaker for Class of 2026

April 15, 2026

Linda Sanford, Former IBM Executive, Named 177th Commencement Speaker for Sacred Heart Greenwich 

Sacred Heart Greenwich is proud to announce that Linda Sanford, former Senior Vice President of Enterprise Transformation at IBM, will deliver the 177th commencement address at the Class of 2026 graduation ceremony on June 5, 2026.

Sanford is widely recognized as a transformative leader in the technology industry. Over a distinguished four-decade career at IBM, she played a critical role in driving innovation and guiding large-scale organizational change. As Senior Vice President of Enterprise Transformation, she applied her expertise in operations research to reshape key business processes, helping IBM adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.

“We are honored to welcome Linda Sanford as our 2026 commencement speaker,” said Michael F. Baber, President of Sacred Heart Greenwich. “Her commitment to innovation, leadership, and expanding opportunities for women reflects the very heart of our mission. We look forward to the wisdom and perspective she will share with our graduates as they prepare to lead with purpose and confidence.”

A pioneer in advancing women in technology, Sanford has long championed diversity as essential to innovation and business success. She served as executive sponsor of the steering committee for Women in Technology International (WITI), supporting initiatives to inspire and educate young women pursuing careers in STEM. In 1996, she was inducted into the WITI Hall of Fame, and in 1997, she was elected to the National Academy of Engineering for her contributions to computer product development. From 1999 through 2001, she was named by Fortune as one of the most powerful women in American business.

Sanford earned her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from St. John’s University and a master’s degree in operations research from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Following her retirement from IBM in 2014, she has continued to lend her expertise through board service, including roles with ConEd.

“I am honored to address the graduating class of 2026 at Sacred Heart Greenwich,” said Sanford. “Expanding opportunities for women in technology and tackling complex challenges has been a driving force throughout my career. I look forward to sharing my experiences with these talented young women as they take their next steps toward leadership and impact.”

The commencement ceremony will take place on June 5, 2026, celebrating the achievements and bright futures of the Class of 2026.