Coming of Age: Skidmore Celebrates Class of 2026 Graduation

Skidmore College Celebrates 115th Commencement with Diverse Graduating Class

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. — The 115th Commencement Exercise for Skidmore College took place on Saturday, marking a momentous occasion for the graduating class of 2026. Family, friends, and loved ones gathered at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center to honor the achievements of the students who have completed their academic journey at the institution.

This year’s graduating class included a total of 695 students, representing a wide range of backgrounds. Among them were students from 34 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, as well as 43 countries across the globe. The class also featured 55 dual citizens, 65 international students, and 65 first-generation college graduates, highlighting the diversity and inclusivity that define Skidmore's student body.

President Marc Connor delivered the commencement address, emphasizing the significance of the day and urging the graduates to cherish the moment. “Today we gather, and we celebrate, and we bear witness – for this is a coming of age. This is a moment not to be forgotten,” he said. “If these four years have passed quickly, don’t let today do that. Be aware, notice today, mark it, hold on to it.”

Connor also praised the unique qualities that the students brought to their education, such as creativity, grit, and kindness. “That is who we are, that is what you carry, and that is what you’ve given to Skidmore,” he added. He described the college as being on a “story of ascent” and expressed gratitude for the positive impact the graduating class has had on the institution.

Land Acknowledgment Marks a New Tradition

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of Skidmore’s first-ever land acknowledgment. This initiative was led by Vice President for Strategic Planning and Institutional Diversity, Joshua Woodfork, and Will Bryce, President of the Skidmore Native American Culture club.

Woodfork emphasized the college’s commitment to educating the campus community about indigenous histories and legacies. “We further commit to truth, transformation, and repair through partnership with local indigenous nations and communities, and through a collective responsibility to steward the lands and waters as a place for peace for all future generations,” he stated.

Bryce shared his personal experiences with indigenous topics through the Native American Cultural Club, history courses, and events like the Tree of Peace ceremony. “I am deeply grateful to see Skidmore foster a land acknowledgement with commitments aimed towards furthering partnerships with indigenous communities on and off campus,” he said.

Honorary Degrees Recognize Contributions

The ceremony also honored two individuals with honorary degrees. Indigenous Elder-in-Residence Kay Olan (Ionataie:was) and JoAnn Mason received the Doctor of Humane Letters and Doctor of Laws, respectively. Their contributions to education and community engagement were celebrated as part of the event.

Faculty Speaker Shares Insights on Enlightenment

As part of the graduation traditions, the Senior Class selected a faculty member to deliver a speech. This year, the class of 2026 chose Beau Breslin, Professor of Political Science, to speak. Breslin reflected on the spirit of the Enlightenment and its relevance to the students’ experience at Skidmore.

“Thomas Jefferson wasn’t just writing a document; he was writing from a belief, a bold belief,” Breslin explained. “That belief was the spirit of the Enlightenment, and it was revolutionary at the time. The spirit of the Enlightenment is very much the same spirit that has influenced your time here at Skidmore.”

He encouraged the graduates to embrace the confidence they have gained through their education, noting that it was forged in moments of intellectual challenge and deep conversation. “The enlightenment you see is synonymous with a high regard for individual human capacity,” he concluded.

Words of Wisdom from Class President

Madison Situ, the class president, shared her reflections on the past four years and offered advice to her fellow graduates as they move forward. “I’m going to miss how small this place can feel,” she said. “For some reason, I imagine myself walking down the street in big cities and still seeing your faces – which, funnily enough, will probably happen.”

Situ emphasized the importance of carrying the love and sense of community they developed at Skidmore into their future endeavors. “This love for others, our community, and our planet is something we must carry with us long after we leave this place. Continue to show up for one another, treat everyone with kindness and lead with empathy.”