JONESBORO – Arkansas State University welcomed a new class of alumni as they honored the class of 2026 during two commencement ceremonies held on campus today.
The ceremonies took place at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at First National Bank Arena.
Approximately 2,565 degrees from eight university colleges were confirmed by Dr. Todd Shields, chancellor, and Dr. Calvin White Jr.
“Your degree from Arkansas State is not the finish line. It’s evidence. Evidence that you can take on something difficult, stay with it, and finish it. That’s your accomplishment and your success. Carry it forward,” the chancellor said to a packed crowd of graduates and guests at FNB Arena.
The morning ceremony featured candidates of the Colleges of Education and Behavioral Science, Engineering and Computer Science, Liberal Arts and Communication, and Beck College of Sciences and Mathematics.
Kalayna King of Conway, R.E. Lee Wilson Award winner, served as the speaker. She received her degree in biological sciences.
“Think about the journey you took to get here and don’t forget… this was your goal! Even if you have another degree or four to get. Remember that this was a step in your journey that you will not get back. Today also represents our next steps. For some of us, it is exciting, for others it is scary, and for others it is completely surreal. I look out today and see others who are so strong,” King said.
Also during the morning ceremony, an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree was awarded to Jo Ann Nalley of Jonesboro, one of A-State’s longest-serving and most dedicated staff members.
Nalley, who is completing her 55th year with the university, leads the childhood services program. During her career, Nalley has secured more than $256 million in state and federal grants to support childhood services programs statewide.
The afternoon ceremony included graduates of the Colleges of Agriculture, Neil Griffin College of Business, Nursing and Health Professions, and University College.
Commencement speaker for the afternoon ceremony was Julia Renee Pye of Sheridan, a Distinguished Service Award winner who graduated with a degree in biological sciences.
“It served as a reminder to me that while we all came here to earn a degree, we are all leaving with something much bigger and more rewarding. What stands out most is the support we’ve shared. Not only from our professors and families, but from each other. This class has lifted one another up, pushed each other forward, and helped turn goals into reality. As we each go our separate ways today, I hope we can all take the memories, support, and determination we have here moving forward,” Pye said to the crowd.
Those who missed the ceremonies or could not attend in person can watch a recording of the livestream online.
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