A Celebration of Excellence and Enduring Purpose: Edward Waters University Commencement 2026

Beneath the glow of the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts, 240 Edward Waters University graduates prepared to cross the commencement stage before a packed auditorium where every crimson seat held a story of sacrifice, perseverance, and triumph. The applause rolled through the hall like a chorus, rising from proud families, mentors, alumni, and loved ones who had waited, prayed, and sacrificed for this moment alongside them. For the Class of 2026, commencement was more than a ceremony. It was the culmination of legacy fulfilled, and the beginning of lives poised for impact, leadership, and enduring purpose.

This year’s commencement ceremony marked the largest graduating class in Edward Waters University history. As graduates processed into the auditorium draped in black and purple regalia, the moment reflected the continued rise of an institution grounded in academic distinction and transformational opportunity. Adding to the celebratory atmosphere was a special appearance by Grammy nominated gospel artist Byron Cage, whose presence elevated an already historic occasion with a spirit of inspiration and praise.

For many members of the Class of 2026, the journey to commencement had been shaped by long nights balancing coursework and employment, moments of uncertainty quietly overcome, and sacrifices made far beyond the classroom. Yet within the grandeur of the morning, those burdens gave way to celebration. Edward Waters University, Florida’s first independent institution of higher learning, once again affirmed its mission through a graduating class reflective of both scholarly excellence and global ambition.

From Jacksonville to Jamaica, from Guyana to Nigeria, the Class of 2026 represented an international tapestry of scholars, innovators, researchers, and emerging professionals prepared to leave their mark on the world.

Among the university’s highest academic honorees were Valedictorian Peace Amhanesi and Salutatorians Kala Anderson and Kelly Gurrick, three scholars whose achievements embodied intellectual discipline and extraordinary promise.

Peace Amhanesi, a native of Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, graduated Summa Cum Laude with a perfect 4.0 grade point average in Computer and Information Science. Throughout her four years at Edward Waters University, she earned Presidential Honors recognition every semester while simultaneously building an impressive portfolio of research and professional experience in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Her academic pursuits included research opportunities at Morgan State University, software engineering experience with Poly API Corporation, and participation in the PROPEL Health Accelerator. Following graduation, Amhanesi plans to pursue graduate studies in computer science with aspirations of developing equitable and impactful technologies capable of addressing real world challenges.

Joining her in academic distinction were Salutatorians Kala Anderson and Kelly Gurrick, both Biology majors graduating Summa Cum Laude with 3.99 grade point averages. Anderson, originally from Swift River, Portland, Jamaica, will continue her studies at the University of Florida through the institution’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing partnership program, becoming one of the first Edward Waters students selected for the initiative. A member of multiple honor societies and the Foundation for Fortitude, Anderson distinguished herself through both academic excellence and leadership.

Likewise, Kelly Gurrick of Georgetown, Guyana, will also continue her academic journey through the University of Florida nursing partnership program. Her accomplishments reflected the growing strength of Edward Waters University’s science and healthcare preparation programs, reinforcing the institution’s expanding reputation for cultivating future leaders in medicine and public health.

The ceremony also celebrated faculty members whose scholarship and mentorship continue elevating the university’s academic profile. Through the Faculty Eminence Awards, Edward Waters University recognized educators whose contributions exemplify excellence in teaching, research, scholarship, and service.

Foreign Language Instructor Clara DiGennaro received the 2026 Faculty Eminence Award for Excellence in Teaching and Service. Her work has transformed language education into a dynamic and immersive academic experience rooted in intercultural dialogue and experiential learning. Through innovative virtual exchange initiatives connecting students in the United States and Chile, DiGennaro created collaborative educational environments designed to strengthen linguistic fluency, cultural competency, and global engagement. Her internationally recognized work has further expanded Edward Waters University’s global academic partnerships and laid the foundation for future faculty led study abroad opportunities.

The Faculty Eminence Award in Research and Scholarship was presented to Dr. Prabir Mandal, whose research in health disparity, cellular biology, and epithelial transport physiology has contributed meaningfully to the scientific understanding of environmental toxicology and public health. His scholarship explores the molecular effects of environmental exposures on human cellular function while simultaneously integrating undergraduate students into meaningful scientific research experiences. Through mentorship, conference engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Mandal has played a pivotal role in preparing students from underrepresented backgrounds for advanced study and careers in biomedical sciences.

As the morning drew to a close and graduates turned their tassels in unison, a profound sense of history settled in the hearts of each graduate. Commencement at Edward Waters University was not merely the culmination of academic pursuit. It was the triumph of perseverance made visible, the continuation of a 160-year legacy, and the emergence of a record-breaking class prepared to lead with intellect, conviction, and purpose in a world awaiting their influence.