Thomas University Celebrates 71st Commencement
Thomas University celebrated its 71st Commencement exercises on May 2, 2026, conferring over 400 degrees collectively during four ceremonies held on the Magnolia Campus.
The undergraduate commencement ceremonies, held at 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., honored undergraduate degree candidates and featured Austin Bryant as the undergraduate commencement speaker. The graduate commencement ceremonies followed at 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., recognizing graduate candidates for their academic achievements.
Together, the ceremonies honored graduates from across Thomas University’s academic divisions and celebrated the culmination of years of dedication and scholarship.
A highlight of the day was the inspirational address delivered by commencement speaker Austin Bryant, acclaimed entreprenuer and former NFL player.
As part of the commencement celebrations, Thomas University recognized outstanding faculty members with two of its highest academic honors:
Professor of the Year Award was presented to Dr. LeAnna Willison, Associate Professor of Biology, for exemplary teaching, scholarship, and service to the University community.
The Vulcan Teaching Award, recognizing excellence and innovation in teaching, was awarded to Dr. Remigio Padilla-Hernandez, Associate Professor of Math. Established in 1991, the Vulcan Teaching Excellence Awards annually recognizes one outstanding faculty member who demonstrates strong academic skills in the classroom and provides leadership and support in the other areas of campus life.
The President’s Award, the highest honor bestowed upon a TU student, recognizing exceptional academic achievement, service, and leadership, was presented to Matthew Bowman, who received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise & Sport Science at the undergraduate ceremony.
Additionally, every year the faculty of each of the University’s divisions selects its top graduating undergraduate student and graduate student to be recognized for their outstanding academic achievements during the commencement ceremonies. This year’s recipients are:
Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences: Ashlyn Powell (Undergraduate), Dr. Sakia T. Franklin-Jones (Graduate)
Division of Business: Jaxon French (Undergraduate), Luke Blanton (Graduate)
Division of Education: Mason Ard (Undergraduate), Andrew Messer (Graduate)
Division of Health and Sciences: Margaret Colgan (Undergraduate), Melissa Edwards (Graduate)
Division of Humanities: Jonah Hendricks (Undergraduate)
Thomas University congratulates the Class of 2026!
Dr. Remigio Padilla‑Hernandez receives the Vulcan Teaching Award
Dr. Angie Anderson, MSC Program Director
