Some will be heading into the workforce, others may be continuing their education, but all students in the 2026 graduating class of Emporia State University can celebrate a job well done.
Spring commencement activities were held inside of White Auditorium Friday and Saturday for the graduating class, with graduate and doctoral commencement taking place Friday, followed by undergraduate ceremonies Saturday morning. Overseeing his first commencement at the helm of the university, President Matthew Baker says commencement day is “one of the two best days on a college campus.”
This year’s graduation ceremonies followed a long period of change on the ESU campus following the retirement of former President Ken Hush in December, the interim appointment of Dr. Taylor Kriley and the beginning of President Baker’s tenure in March. Baker commended their students for how well they navigated the changing landscape of the past year and also credited the work of ESU staff and faculty for helping keep the train of education moving forward.
Offering comments at both ceremonies this weekend was Kansas Board of Regents member Neelima Parasker. In her address, Parasker conveyed a three phased approach to success: courage, impact and genuineness.
Parasker also stated that while students should be proud of the degrees they have earned over the course of their journeys, they should remember that the degree is a “stepping stone,” not their defining attribute.
In total, ESU awarded degrees to more than 800 students over the weekend.
Click here for a YouTube Short from the weekend’s ceremonies.
