The ceremony featured a musical performance by Jordan Slaughter, who performed East Wind by Shulamit Ran, adding a memorable artistic touch to the celebration. Graduates and guests also heard remarks from retiring Associate Dean David Shier, whose years of service and dedication to Honors students have had a lasting impact on the honors college community.

As part of the ceremony, each graduate received an Honors medallion to be worn during the university-wide commencement ceremonies, symbolizing their achievements and membership in the Honors College community.

A special tradition of the ceremony included recognizing the Honors College Gonfalon Bearers, students selected for their outstanding academic achievement and leadership to represent the college during university commencement ceremonies. This year’s honorees were John Crowley, Jasmin Chu, and Miles Boudinot.

The prestigious S. Town Stephenson Award, one of the highest recognitions presented by the Honors Council, was awarded to four exceptional graduates whose academic accomplishments, intellectual curiosity, and diverse commitments distinguished them throughout their undergraduate careers. The 2026 recipients included Ben Borgida, Matthew Bunge, Katelyn Smith, and Nitara Sukumaran.

The ceremony also recognized faculty mentors whose guidance helped shape the academic journeys of Honors students through the Outstanding Thesis Advisor Awards. This year’s recipients included Dr. Porismita Borah, Dr. Joe Compeau, Dr. Wes Dowd, Dr. Minjoo Kim, Dr. Sergey Lapin, Dr. Pavan Munaganti, Dr. Amanda Stahl, and Dr. Aaron Wacker.

The Spring 2026 Faculty Award was presented to Dr. Shawna Herzog, associate professor of history, in recognition of her outstanding teaching, mentorship, and commitment to Honors students. Known for challenging students to think deeply and independently, Herzog has served the Honors College in numerous capacities, including as an Honors Faculty Fellow and member of the Honors Council.

The evening concluded with the presentation of the Dean’s Award, honoring graduating seniors who exemplify the mission and values of the Honors College through academic excellence, service, and commitment to others. This year’s recipients were Emma Soderstrom and Eva Rickard.

As graduates received one final standing ovation from family, friends, faculty, and staff, the ceremony served as both a celebration of achievement and a sendoff into the next chapter of their lives. Congratulations to the Honors College Class of 2026 and Go Cougs!