Vaughn College Honors Class of 2026 at Its 94th Commencement Ceremony

Vaughn College Celebrates the Class of 2026

On May 16, Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology marked a significant milestone by hosting its 94th commencement ceremony for the Class of 2026. This year's event was graced by Barry C. Bragton Jr., the President of UPS Worldport Operations and a notable alumnus of Vaughn. His address not only inspired graduates but also emphasized key values such as leadership, resilience, and inclusion.

In front of a proud audience, Bragton shared his journey, reminding graduates of the importance of acknowledging their origins. His words resonated with many as he stated, "Whether you end up in the flight deck or a boardroom, never forget your humble beginnings. Your journey shapes you into the leader everyone wants to follow." Bragton, recognized for his extraordinary contributions to service-centered leadership, was awarded an honorary doctoral degree at the ceremony, highlighting his commitment to mentorship and inclusion.

Notably, the event also featured Ms. Kenna Fullerton, who graduated with a bachelor's degree in airline management and received the prestigious Board of Trustees Award for her exceptional academic record and community service. In her address as the student speaker, Fullerton inspired her peers by stressing the importance of values, stating, "Consider your values in all that you do. As you experience challenges and successes, your values will guide you and help you remain strong in adversity."

Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo, President and CEO of Vaughn College, took the stage to commend both the graduates and faculty for their roles in upholding the institution's commitment to academic excellence. She expressed gratitude towards everyone who contributed to the transformative educational experience at Vaughn College, saying, "This event marks the beginning of a new phase in your lives. Today, take the time to appreciate this incredible milestone and celebrate your triumph!"

Vaughn College, established in 1932, is dedicated to providing high-quality education in fields such as engineering, management, and aviation. With a current enrollment of over 1,500 students, the college emphasizes a personalized learning environment, maintaining a student-faculty ratio of 16 to 1. An impressive 97% of Vaughn graduates find employment in their professional field or pursue further education within a year after graduation. The college serves a diverse student body, including many first-generation college students, and has earned recognition as a Hispanic-Serving Institution.

The school's commitment to upward mobility is backed by a recent study, placing it at the forefront of institutions nationwide. The graduation ceremony was not just a celebration of individual achievement but a reaffirmation of the college's mission to change the world, one student at a time. Vaughn College is more than an educational institution; it's a community that fosters growth and opportunity for all.

As graduates bid farewell to their academic journey, they embark on a lifetime of opportunities, equipped with the skills and values learned over their time at Vaughn. This ceremony not only celebrated their past but also set the tone for their future endeavors.