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�鶹��ý���� celebrated its Spring Commencement on May 11 and May 12 at Prudential Center in Newark, honoring 4,251 graduates whose achievements reflect perseverance, impact and a shared commitment to their communities.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of her leadership and service, underscoring �鶹��ý����’s mission to serve the public and expand access to education and opportunity.

“At this moment, with your degree, you’re more powerful than ever. You will chart the path forward,” Governor Sherrill told graduates, saying she has “so much faith” in their ability to lead.

The Class of 2026, she said, is “more empathetic, more thoughtful, more tested than any generation since at least the greatest generation – and possibly ever,” citing the ways students have navigated a global pandemic, social media‑driven division and emerging AI.

During the two ceremonies, students from 37 states and 12 countries earned doctoral, master’s and bachelor’s degrees across �鶹��ý����’s 300‑plus academic programs. They are committed to building a brighter future through work in social action, public health, business, public service, education, research, the arts, science and the humanities.

On May 11, the University celebrated students from the College of the Arts, College of Communication and Media, College for Community Health and Feliciano School of Business.

On May 12, �鶹��ý���� recognized graduates of , the College for Education and Engaged Learning, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the College of Science and Mathematics and the School of Nursing.

University President Jonathan Koppell challenged graduates to consider “what’s going to sustain you” as they leave campus. “What’s going to motivate you? How will you get through it when the unexpected confronts you?” he asked, saying that at a pivotal moment in the nation’s history, they must play a key role in defining what the country will be.

Student Government Association President Leila Jones echoed that challenge, reminding classmates they are more than any single moment.

“Somewhere along the way, I didn’t become fearless. I just stopped letting fear decide for me,” Jones said. “We are not defined by one moment or one version of ourselves. We’re shaped by the experiences that push us to grow.” Her message set the tone for the many stories of resilience, opportunity and impact that define the Class of 2026.

Turning challenges into purpose

Many graduates were first in their families to earn college degrees. Across programs, they balanced family, work and study – including single parents, adult learners and military-affiliated students – while serving communities close to home and around the world.

“Like me, many of you arrived here carrying the dreams of your families and communities,” said Senior Class Speaker Ethan Garcia, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts in Creative Arts and Technology from Bloomfield College of �鶹��ý����.

“Be proud of this accomplishment and remember: you belong in every room you walk into. Your voice and your story matter.”

Among the graduate spotlights are members of the Class of 2026 whose journeys reflect resilience, purpose and a commitment to serving others:

• A first-generation scientist heading to medical school, turning grief into a commitment to healing.
• A student exploring politics, policy and religion who gained hands-on experience in United Nations climate advocacy.
• A graduate from abroad who persevered through political unrest to earn his master’s degree and continue his work in education.
• A Cali Pathways Project graduate who pivoted from music to business and now hopes to create spaces where artists can perform and connect.

Joy, pride and a shared mission

Koppell told graduates they would carry fresh ideas, talent and optimism into a world that urgently needs their leadership at what he called an inflection point for the country. He asked them to consider “what values will you choose to help you navigate the days ahead?” He reminded them that “the only insurmountable obstacle to change is the unsubstantiated belief that change is not possible.”

During the ceremony on May 11, Graduate School speaker Jason Edward Cameron, a 46-year-old who earned his Master of Fine Arts in Dance, offered fellow graduates a message that looked beyond the ceremony:

“This diploma is not an ending. It’s a beginning,” he said. “So, choose boldly. Choose work that matters. Choose growth over comfort. Choose to begin again when necessary.”

Photos by University Photographers Mike Peters and John J. LaRosa

Celebrate with us

• Watch the replays on YouTube:
  • Monday, May 11: |
  • Tuesday, May 12: |
• Explore more graduate stories at �鶹��ý����’s graduate spotlights to see how the Class of 2026 is already making a difference in New Jersey and around the world.