On Friday, May 8, in two ceremonies, Piedmont University conferred undergraduate degrees to 202 students, including 79 first-generation students, and 105 graduate students, including masters, EdS, and doctorate degrees. The ceremonies were held at the Johnny Mize Athletic Center on the Demorest campus. Mary Beth Horton, Director of Community Relations at Habersham EMC, delivered the keynote address at both ceremonies.
Among the graduates was Jada White of Swainsboro, who graduated with an Education Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction Ini Cert.
Several awards were given during commencement. The Michael and Emily Robertson Kindness Award was presented to Dana Davis, recognizing a student who has demonstrated kindness to others within the Piedmont University community.
Kassie Nicole Robinson received the H.M. Stewart Sr. Award of Excellence, presented annually to the top honor graduate of Piedmont University. The senior had the best grade point average in the class of 2026.
Dr. Jackie Ellet, professor in the College of Arts & Sciences, was named the Outstanding Undergraduate Advisor Award winner. Dr. Sarah Sumners, professor in the College of Education, was recognized as the Outstanding Graduate Advisor Award winner.
Professor John Lanneau, College of Arts & Sciences, was honored with the Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award. This annual award is presented to an outstanding undergraduate faculty member who demonstrates strong academic skills in the classroom and provides leadership and support in other areas of campus life.
"Congratulations to all our graduates and their families, friends, and supporters. Graduation is a life-changing milestone. We are proud to welcome you to the Piedmont alumni family," said Piedmont University President Marshall M. Criser, III.
About Piedmont University
Founded in 1897, Piedmont University is a private, comprehensive liberal arts institution offering a personalized higher education experience focused on student success, academic achievement, and professional development. Offering a variety of career-oriented majors in the arts and sciences, business, education, and nursing, Piedmont's supportive learning environment is defined by small class sizes, with a 12:1 ratio, that allow students to create meaningful relationships with their professors, classmates, and the campus community. Piedmont's idyllic, 390-acre residential campus is nestled in the foothills of the north Georgia mountains, with a satellite campus situated in the heart of downtown Athens. For more, please visit www.piedmont.edu, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter/X.
