WSU Global Campus Celebrates 2026 Graduates
On May 16, students from far and wide gathered at the Westin in Seattle for the 2026 Global Campus commencement ceremony. With 172 students attending in person, this event provided a unique opportunity for many of WSU’s online learners to connect and celebrate with their peers without the barriers of computer screens, while the 17 graduates who were unable to travel were invited to join virtually. Regardless of how students and their families chose to participate, the event held great significance for the entire Global Campus community and is sure to be remembered with Cougar pride for years to come.
Despite the fact that Global Campus has served students from across the world for over three decades, this year’s designated commencement was only the fifth to date. Though Global Campus students have always had the option to walk at the ceremonies of the physical WSU campus of their choice, the experience of attending an event specifically tailored to the college’s online learning community is unparalleled. Not only do these students get to celebrate their graduation in the company of others who have undertaken similarly non-traditional journeys, the option to participate virtually assures that everyone gets to be recognized for their hard work and dedication.
As always, this year’s commencement honored the dedication, strengths, and resilience unique to Global Campus students. Many of those who earn their degree at this campus do so while juggling countless other responsibilities, from raising families to working full-time jobs to serving their country through military service, all of which was acknowledged by those who spoke at the ceremony. As Global Campus Chancellor Dave Cillay said when he addressed the audience, “Cougs find a way. There’s an obstacle? We overcome it.”
In addition to the graduates and their guests, the ceremony was also well-attended by supportive faculty and staff from the Global Campus community. Dr. Jennifer Thigpen, the campus’ vice chancellor for academic affairs, referred to graduation time as “the highlight of [her] year.” Citing the pride and excitement she witnessed at commencement, she continued to say that “being a part of the ceremony reminds me exactly why I do what I do. It’s so gratifying to have even a small part in [the graduates’] journeys.”
The graduates who attended in-person were also honored with a celebratory dinner hosted by the Associated Students of Washington State University Global (ASWSUG), where they were invited to speak in front of their peers to share about their unique journeys. This year, the mic was also open to friends and family members in attendance, many of whom took advantage of the opportunity to express their pride and support before an audience.
Members of the WSU community and beyond are invited to continue the celebration of this year’s Global Campus graduates. Photos from the ceremony and dinner, along with a recording of the livestreamed ceremony, are available to commemorate this special time, preserving the joy and excitement of the season to revisit in months to come.
About the Author
Emma Seckington is a writer for WSU Global Campus, working alongside the Marketing and Communications team to spotlight the unique accomplishments of Global Campus students, faculty, and alumni.