SUNY Westchester Community College celebrated the achievements, resilience, and aspirations of the Class of 2026 during three commencement ceremonies held on campus, honoring more than 1,300 graduates from across the college’s academic schools.
The day’s ceremonies, held in the college’s Physical Education Building, brought together graduates, families, faculty, staff, and community leaders in recognition of a milestone that reflected not only academic accomplishment, but also perseverance through personal and professional challenges.
The School of Math, Science and Engineering and the School of Health Careers, Technology and Applied Learning participated in the morning ceremony, followed by the School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences in the afternoon and the School of Business and Professional Careers in the evening.
SUNY Westchester Community College President Belinda S. Miles addressed graduates at all three ceremonies, joined by members of the Board of Trustees and college leadership. In her remarks, Dr. Miles emphasized the transformative role of community colleges in expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and helping students realize their potential.
“Community colleges like SUNY Westchester are among the institutions that believe talent exists everywhere, and that opportunity should do so too,” said Dr. Miles. “Our graduates have demonstrated extraordinary determination and resilience, often balancing work, family, and other responsibilities while pursuing their education. Today’s commencement celebrates not only what they have achieved, but who they are becoming.”
Dr. Miles encouraged graduates to move forward with confidence and purpose while remembering the experiences, lessons, and people who helped shape their journeys. Drawing on the symbolism of the Sankofa bird from African folklore, she reflected on the importance of carrying wisdom from the past while continuing to grow and pursue new opportunities.
She also reminded graduates that learning does not end with commencement, particularly in a rapidly changing world shaped by evolving industries and new technologies such as artificial intelligence. “Your relationship with SUNY Westchester does not end today,” Dr. Miles said. “You are part of a generation that will continue learning, adapting, and building new skills throughout your lives, and we will continue to be here alongside you.”
Among the graduates recognized were recipients of SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence, 2026 winner of the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship, Ashley Cozayatl, and other honorees. Members of the graduating class will continue their studies at institutions including Stanford, Princeton, Columbia, Georgetown, SUNY campuses, and other colleges and universities, while others will enter careers in fields such as healthcare, cybersecurity, business, engineering, fashion design, and digital media.
Throughout the ceremonies, graduates were encouraged to take action, pursue meaningful work, and use their education to make a positive impact in their communities. Faculty and staff were also recognized for their mentorship and dedication in supporting students throughout their academic journeys.
“Graduates, your communities need you. Our society needs you. The future needs you,” Dr. Miles told the Class of 2026. “Be bold. Step forward — even when it feels uncertain. This is your moment.”
