UVA Wise Celebrates the Class of 2026 at Spring Commencement
Graduates of the University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise) crossed the stage Saturday morning as the institution honored the Class of 2026 during its annual Commencement ceremony at the David J. Prior Convocation Center.
Family, friends, faculty, staff and alumni gathered with many distinguished guests including University of Virginia President Scott C. Beardsley, members of the University of Virginia’s Board of Visitors and members of the College’s Advisory Board to celebrate the milestone. Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Education degrees were awarded, marking the culmination of years of academic achievement, personal growth and resilience for the newest class of Highland Cavaliers.
More than 300 undergraduate students crossed the stage, receiving their diplomas and stepping into the next chapter of their lives. Seven officers were commissioned through the College’s ROTC program and 37 graduate students received their Master of Education degree.
In her remarks, Chancellor Donna P. Henry praised the graduates for their perseverance and the role they will play beyond campus.
“Class of 2026, you are impressive. You have put your in-class learning to work through new experiential opportunities, led student organizations to new heights, and achieved on campus as well as beyond campus,” Chancellor Henry said. “Your commitment to academic and athletic achievement – as well as your loyalty to your community – has been nothing short of inspiring. And that will serve you well in your future.”
Nina Erickson, the day’s student speaker, also addressed the Class of 2026, reflecting on a journey shaped by unexpected opportunities, leadership experiences and personal growth. Highlighting her involvement in ROTC and her achievement as the first female UVA Wise student to graduate Air Assault School, she emphasized the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
“UVA Wise provides a way forward,” she said. “A place where you don’t just follow a path, you pave one.”
She spoke to the shared experiences of the graduating class, including first-generation college students and those who carved unique paths during their time on campus. Her message underscored perseverance, community and purpose.
Keynote speaker Tyler Roberts, a 2007 graduate of UVA Wise and the President of The Mina Group, delivered a keynote address focused on discipline, integrity and impact. A native of Wise, Roberts reflected on his upbringing in Southwest Virginia and the values instilled by his community and family.
“I am proud of where I come from,” Roberts said. “You should be, too.”
His message to graduates was clear: success is built on trust and showing up, even when it is difficult.
“Be the person people can count on,” Roberts said. “Your reputation is built on what you do, consistently.”
Hunter Hess, a 2019 graduate and President-Elect of the UVA Wise Alumni Association Board of Directors, addressed the graduates with a message centered on reflection and momentum. Drawing on his own experience sitting in their place seven years ago, Hess described Commencement as both a culmination and a starting point.
“Everything you have worked toward has led you here, but don’t let this be the brightest moment of your journey. Use it as the launchpad,” said Hess. “Someone invested in you. Now it’s your turn to invest in the next generation.”
As part of the ceremony, Hess formally welcomed the Class of 2026 into the UVA Wise Alumni Association, highlighting a growing network of more than 17,000 alumni worldwide.
Student Government President William T. Rudeseal ’26 added, “UVA Wise is more than just a place—it’s a community. It’s a foundation. And no matter where life takes you, you always have a home to come back to tucked away in Southwest Virginia.”
As the Class of 2026 departed campus, speakers left them with a unified message: stay connected, remain grounded in values and continue building lives defined by purpose and service.