The Class of 2026 owned the stage on Saturday as more than 300 graduates were recognized at the Crown Coliseum during Methodist University’s Commencement celebration.
The Class of 2026 owned the stage on Saturday as more than 300 graduates were recognized at the Crown Coliseum during Methodist University’s Commencement celebration.
President Stanley T. Wearden, Ph.D., encouraged newly graduated Monarchs to push forward with the lessons and values gained during their time at MU.
“Your education has prepared you for a lifetime of learning and reflection,” Wearden said. “We want you to have rewarding careers, but we want more. Go out into the world and make it better. We’re counting on you.”
The ceremony marked a milestone for students who earned associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
The ceremony reflected the growth and experiences that shaped how far the class has come and where they’ve yet to go. As each graduate crossed the stage, they were joined by a sponsor (family member, friend, professor, or other) who they chose to put on their hood which symbolizes the conferring of their degree.
Occupational Therapy graduate Leah Strickland said crossing the stage meant more than earning her degree.
“My experience at Methodist University has been nothing short of a blessing, from my professors to classmates who have become lifelong friends, and my family who supported me every step of the way,” she said.
Like most, Strickland described the moment as both emotional and fulfilling, the culmination of a goal she has been working towards since high school, crediting her family, support, and her faith.
“My heart is so full with gratitude,” she said. “It’s bittersweet reaching the finish line, but also a reminder of the Lord’s faithfulness in this time of my life.”
This year’s keynote address was delivered by Jenny Buccos, an award-winning media director and producer whose work in STEM education has reached students around the world. During the ceremony, Buccos was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in recognition of her contributions to education, innovation, and expanding access to STEM education.
Her message connected with graduates preparing to take their next steps, encouraging them to take curiosity, creativity, and sense of purpose into their future.
“When you don’t see a path, don’t assume it’s not meant for you,” she said. “Sometimes it just hasn’t been made visible yet.”
Buccos also spoke to the pressure of graduates feeling like they must have it all figured out when they step foot on campus, and how the University gives them permission to continue to discover and evolve after.
“You didn’t need to know exactly who you were going to become,” Buccos said. “What you needed — and what this place gave you — was the permission to find out.”
Also addressing the Class of 2026 was alumni speaker Quincy Malloy, Ed.D. ’02, vice president for Engagement, Community, & Belonging, who encouraged graduates to remain connected to the University and to one another.
“As you move forward, take the experiences, lessons, and relationships you’ve built here at Methodist University and continue to grow them,” Malloy said. “Like so many alumni before you, I invite you to return, to engage, and to help strengthen this community wherever life takes you. No matter where you go, you will always have a home here at MU.”
The ceremony also presented three prestigious student recognitions for standout service and leadership. The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, which honors character and dedication to service, was presented to Corey Barr. The Mary Mildred Sullivan Award, recognizing a student whose life reflects service above self-interest, was awarded to Diane Davis. The L. Stacy Weaver Award was presented to Kathryn Tedder for academic excellence, spiritual development, leadership, and service.
As degrees were awarded and tassels turned, the moment marked both a celebration and the next step in a transition for the Class of 2026. Surrounded by those who supported them along the way, graduates stepped forward ready for what comes next.
A recording of the ceremony is available at methodist.edu/graduation.