CALABASAS, CA, May 21, 2026 – Continuing its tradition of welcoming distinguished speakers to address the graduating class, Viewpoint School announced today that alumnus Brenden Rodriquez ’16 will serve as the commencement speaker for the Class of 2026. On Saturday, June 6, at 9:30 a.m., Viewpoint will hold its annual Commencement ceremony with graduating seniors surrounded by family, friends, school administrators, faculty, staff, trustees, and alumni.

A proud Viewpoint “Lifer”—having attended the school from Kindergarten to Twelfth Grade—Brenden serves as a Lieutenant and Naval Flight Officer in the United States Navy. Following his graduation from Viewpoint in 2016, he attended Harvard University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Engineering Sciences with a concentration in Mechanical and Materials Science and Engineering. Upon graduating from Harvard in 2020, Brenden entered the U.S. Navy and has since dedicated his career to military service and leadership.

“We are honored to have Brenden address the Class of 2026,” said Mark McKee, Head of School. “His education and career embody dedication to country and service to a cause greater than self. As a proud alumnus, Brenden understands the transformative power of a Viewpoint education and the experiences that shape our students during their time here. His ability to connect his time at Viewpoint to his career and service will resonate deeply with our graduates as they prepare for what comes next.”

“It means the world to come back to Viewpoint as this year’s Commencement speaker,” said Rodriquez. “As a former Lifer, Viewpoint shaped me from my most formative years all the way to adulthood. I feel so honored to be able to come back to a place that holds such a special place in my heart and speak to students sitting in the same seat I was in just 10 years ago.”

Reflecting on how his Viewpoint experience prepared him for leadership in the Navy, Brenden credits the School’s emphasis on curiosity, exploration, and adaptability.

“One of the many beautiful aspects of Viewpoint is that students are not only able but encouraged to explore a diverse set of interests and passions,” he shared. “Viewpoint taught me that there’s more than one way to approach any problem and that by diversifying your interests and skillsets, you’re better able to remain flexible in any situation.”

As a Lieutenant and Naval Flight Officer in the U.S. Navy, Brenden has built a career centered on leadership, adaptability, and service. His return to campus for Commencement offers graduates a meaningful example of purpose-driven leadership and lifelong connection to the Viewpoint community.

Lieutenant Brenden T. Rodriquez, United States Navy

A native of Agoura Hills, California, Lieutenant Brenden T. Rodriquez graduated from Harvard University in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a minor in Astrophysics.

Lieutenant Rodriquez is currently assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron TWO TWO (VFA-22) where he serves as a Weapons Systems Officer. While onboard VFA-22, he deployed aboard USS NIMITZ to the U.S. Fifth and Seventh Fleets’ areas of responsibility.