Berry College President Sandeep Mazumder welcomed the Class of 2026 on Saturday, encouraging them to shine brightly as they go forth into the world.
The graduating class represents 47 academic majors and hails from 31 states. Commencement speaker Dan Cathy, the chairman of Chick-fil-A, Inc. and Berry Trustee Emeriti spoke May 9 at Valhalla Stadium, urging graduates to be “remarkable.” Sydney Summers was the student speaker and will be a 3rd Grade teacher at New Prospect Elementary in Fulton County, Georgia.
Berry graduate students received their degrees at a May 8 commencement ceremony at the College Chapel. A Baccalaureate Service honoring graduating seniors was also held on May 6 at the chapel.
Saturday was also the first commencement for new President Mazumder. Honorary degrees were conferred upon Martha Berry descendants, D. Randolph Berry and Martha Berry Walstad, as well as Cathy.
The Class of 2026 have already started making their impact on the world:
- 40% have already accepted their first job or professional position
- 35% are entering graduate programs
- 34% completed a significant research project
- 28% participated in significant services projects
Berry College 2026 Commencement Highlights
