Cancer Survivor Tucker Haas Speaks at Penn State York

When Tucker Haas steps up to the microphone at Penn State York's commencement ceremony on May 8, he'll be sharing a story that began with a devastating diagnosis at just 2 years old.

Haas, a York County native and 2023 Penn State graduate, battled a rare form of cancer through 77 radiation treatments, multiple surgeries, and extensive chemotherapy. He achieved remission in February 2007, but the experience shaped everything that came after.

Now a motivational speaker and founder of The Tucker Haas Foundation, Haas will address graduates at 6 p.m. at the Pullo Family Performing Arts Center. His message centers on resilience, perseverance, and finding purpose through life's toughest moments.

During his time at Penn State, Haas threw himself into THON, the university's legendary student-run philanthropy supporting pediatric cancer research. Organizations like Four Diamonds and Penn State THON had supported his family during treatment, and he wanted to give back.

After graduating with a degree in commercial recreation management, Haas faced an unexpected challenge. He'd spent so much of his life involved with THON that he struggled to figure out what came next.

His answer came in 2023 when he launched The Tucker Haas Foundation. The nonprofit supports young cancer survivors and their families through fundraising, community events, and building support systems for families navigating life during and after treatment.

"I wanted to help people who were going through the same things I did when I was younger," Haas said.

Why This Inspires

Being selected as commencement speaker holds special meaning for Haas because not long ago, he sat in those same graduation seats. He hopes his message reaches beyond the graduates to their families and supporters in the audience.

"I want to inspire people to chase what they want to accomplish in life and keep moving forward, even when life gets difficult," Haas said.

Regional Chancellor Marilyn J. Wells praised the choice, noting that Haas brings a message of perseverance and hope that will resonate deeply with graduates beginning their next chapter. His story proves that the hardest battles can become the foundation for helping others.

For graduates facing uncertainty about their futures, Haas offers living proof that purpose often emerges from our greatest struggles.