By Elisabeth Costanzo Stewart
Celebration was in the air as friends, family, and well-wishers piled into the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena for SUNY Broome Community College’s 77th Commencement Ceremony. The Class of 2026 officially made the transition from current students to College alumni on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
This year’s class of Hornets includes 703 graduates, ranging in age from 17 to 68. 144 graduates earned a spot on the Dean’s List graduates, 122 on the President’s List graduates, and 17 graduates maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA.
The evening was filled with inspirational stories, moments of gratitude, and thoughtful advice from a series of featured speakers including:
- Dr. Jennifer Musa – Macebearer and Professor of Biology
- Dr. Jason Andrews – Trustee
- Sasha Asinovsky – Student Trustee
- Dr. Tony D. Hawkins – President of SUNY Broome
- Quentin Pappadakis (LA’ 26) – Student Speaker
President Hawkins addresses the Class of 2026. (Photo Credit: Matt Ebbers)
“As you go forward, always remember that you belong at SUNY Broome,” shared President Hawkins. “As a student yesterday, a graduate today, and an alumni forever.”
A fun highlight of the ceremony included a musical performance of “Dance!” by Robert T. Gibson by the College’s Chamber Singers.
After officially switching their tassels from right to left and collecting their diploma folios, the ceremony concluded with a celebratory recessional led by B.C. Celtic Pipes & Drums.
Special thanks to the Graduation Planning Committee for their year of preparation for such a momentous occasion.
Click here to view the full 2026 Commencement Album!
