Tompkins Cortland Community College celebrated the 508 members of the Class of 2026 during commencement ceremonies Tuesday, May 19. It was the College’s 57^th commencement.

Professors Barbara Moose and Sue Stafford, both retiring after long and distinguished careers, served as Grand Marshals and opened the ceremony. TC3 Board of Trustees Chairperson Judy Davison welcomed the graduates and guests on behalf of the Board, and Student Trustee Shana Piotti offered comments on behalf of the student body. 

“Tonight, as we celebrate this milestone, I hope we carry everything we’ve learned both inside and outside the classroom into whatever comes next. I hope we continue saying yes to opportunities, even the ones that scare us,” said Piotti. “As you enter this next chapter, go into it with an open heart. Take chances. Accept opportunities. Trust yourself enough to try, even when you’re nervous. You never know where one ‘yes’ might lead.” 

As part of the ceremony, Cortland County Poet Laureate Philip Asaph shared his poem “An Education in the Woods” with the graduates, and SUNY Vice Chancellor for Community Colleges Valerie Dent offered remarks. 

“Today is proof - of the success, the struggle, the hard work, the dedication, and fulfillment that this and each graduation day represents,” said Dent. “You’ve earned this celebration and reward for your excellence as a student, an individual, and a citizen of this world. Our mission at SUNY is always to improve lives, to break down barriers to learning, to lend the hand of higher education to the pursuit of progress, and we thank you for joining us in that mission. You have made us proud, and you should be endlessly proud of yourselves for this accomplishment.” 

President Amy Kremenek closed the ceremony by congratulating the Class of 2026. “Whether your journey to tonight was short or long, on-campus or remote, I know each of you has changed, has grown, and has lived vibrantly during your time as a TC3 student,” said Kremenek. “Earning a college degree is an accomplishment in itself, and the real beauty is what it rings with it – the potential for so much more forward change, positive growth, and vibrant living. There is so much more ahead for all of you. And, as proud as we are to have heled you take this step, we are so excited about what comes next for each of you.”