Florence-Darlington Technical College President Jermaine Ford speaks to graduates at West Virginia University at Parkersburg’s spring 2026 commencement ceremony Saturday at the new outdoor event center on the campus. (Photo provided)

PARKERSBURG – The achievements of West Virginia University at Parkersburg’s largest-ever graduating class were recognized Saturday at the spring 2026 commencement.

According to a release from the school, the ceremony honored 645 graduates earning 760 credentials, including associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, certificates and professional workforce credentials.

A total of 252 graduates participated in the ceremony, marking the largest participating commencement class in WVUP history, the release said. Among the graduating class, 97 students graduated cum laude, 82 magna cum laude and 36 summa cum laude.

Trista Scarberry, president of the Student Government Association, encouraged graduates to recognize the value of their degree not simply as an academic credential, but as a reflection of their hard work, determination and personal growth.

“Your degree is not just a piece of paper,” Scarberry said. “Your degree shows the real you … the you that is smart, dedicated, strong and hardworking.”

In her remarks, WVUP President Torie Jackson challenged graduates to reject limiting labels and define themselves by their character, purpose and potential rather than titles alone. Jackson reminded students that while degrees open doors, the impact they make will be shaped by how they serve others, lead in their communities and embrace the many roles they will hold throughout life.

“Don’t limit yourself to a single label,” Jackson said. “Be who you choose to be.”

The ceremony’s commencement address was delivered by Jermaine Ford, president of Florence-Darlington Technical College in South Carolina. A first-generation community college graduate, Ford has led the college since 2021, spearheading efforts focused on student success, workforce development and expanding educational access for underserved populations.

In his address, Ford used the metaphor of keys, doors, stairs and floors to encourage students to recognize the opportunities education provides and the persistence required to continue moving forward.

“Education is the most powerful key in the world,” Ford said. “But a key only works if you use it.”

Ford reminded graduates that closed doors do not always mean the end of opportunity, but often signal growth, redirection and the need for perseverance.

The university awarded 488 associate degrees and certificates, 152 bachelor’s degrees and recognized 120 graduates from professional credit programs.

WVUP also honored several individuals for distinguished service and contributions to the institution and community:

• Honorary bachelor of arts degrees were awarded to Rebecca Deem McGinnis and Brian Hackathorn in recognition of their exceptional service, leadership and support of the university. McGinnis was recognized for her leadership and volunteer service, including her role in helping guide the acceptance of the historic $10 million gift that made the Innovation and Technology Center at the former Ohio Valley University campus possible. Hackathorn was honored for his contributions to the development of the Innovation and Technology Center and his dedication to the institution’s success.

• Katie Life was named the Bernard P. McDonough Foundation Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year for her student-centered teaching, instructional innovation and commitment to student success, the release said.

• Dan Williamson received emeritus status in recognition of 43 years of dedicated service to WVUP and its students.