Posted on Thursday, May 14, 2026
As the Class of 2026 prepared to step into an increasingly complex and changing world, speakers at LaGrange College’s 195th commencement ceremony emphasized the importance of leading with resilience, integrity and compassion.
“You will need to be adaptable, globally literate and ready to compete in a multipolar economy,” Bishop Robin Dease shared during her address.
Dease called on graduates to embrace their roles as leaders and representatives of their communities in an interconnected world.
“You have a unique responsibility to show the world what American values look like in action. That means collaboration that turns classrooms into communities and communities into catalysts for change, and curiosity that refuses to settle for easy answers.”
Themes of growth, service and continued learning were central to the ceremony.
Waights G. Henry Jr. Leadership Award recipient Zentrina Choice ’26 also encouraged students to continue learning and trust in themselves as they move into their next chapter.
“Learn and cultivate a sense of awareness, and believe in yourself,” she said.
The Alumni Association presented Spencer King ’00 with the Distinguished Service Alumni Award, reflecting the college’s commitment to leadership, service and lifelong connection.
King assured the Class of 2026 that their relationship with LC does not end on graduation day.
“I encourage you to stay connected, to give back and invest in this place the way it has invested in you,” he said.
Making history
Returning to the Residential Quad, commencement included a historic first as the college awarded degrees to its inaugural Doctor of Education cohort in Curriculum and Instruction.
Among the first cohort were Sallie Skinner Kight ’03, MAT ’04, Ed.S.’12 and Rebecca Jones Mitchell ’06, MED ’08, Ed.S.’12, who both received their third LC degree — a reflection of the enduring bond that the college nurtures with its students well beyond their first walk across the stage.
President Susanna L. Baxter highlighted the significance of the moment, describing the hooding of the college’s doctoral graduates a proud milestone for the institution, noting that the degree’s value extends beyond the graduates themselves.
“This degree will open doors for you, but more importantly, it will serve the children in your schools and classrooms,” she said. “We cannot wait to watch the impact this first cohort makes in our region.”
As they leave the Hill, the Class of 2026 carries forward values of resilience, service and connection that will shape their futures and the communities they impact.
Category: College, Community, Events
Keywords: Commencement, Education
