Student Life
A-State Honors Class of 2026 Graduates in Two Formal Commencement Ceremonies
A-State Honors Class of 2026 Graduates
Arkansas State University welcomed a new generation of alumni as it held two formal commencement ceremonies on May 9, 2026, at First National Bank Arena, marking a memorable milestone in the academic journey of its Red Wolves.
A day of pride, dedication and new beginnings
In a solemn atmosphere at First National Bank Arena, Arkansas State University held two commencement ceremonies to honor the Class of 2026. This was not only a moment marking the close of an academic journey, but also a milestone opening a new chapter for A-State's newest alumni.
Approximately 2,565 degrees from eight colleges at A-State were conferred by university leadership. The ceremony was an occasion for students, families, faculty and the A-State community to reflect together on the sustained effort put in throughout their studies.
A-State honors graduates from across its academic fields
The commencement ceremonies were organized by groups of colleges, reflecting the academic diversity and scale of Arkansas State University's programs.
Morning ceremony
The morning commencement ceremony honored students from the fields of Education & Behavioral Science, Engineering & Computer Science, Liberal Arts & Communication, and the Beck College of Sciences and Mathematics.
Afternoon ceremony
The afternoon commencement ceremony was for students from the fields of Agriculture, Business, Nursing & Health Professions, and University College.
Red Wolves spirit
The ceremony was an occasion to celebrate the perseverance, community spirit, and pride of A-State students as they officially joined the university's global alumni network.
8 colleges represented at commencement
The 2026 commencement events reflect A-State's multidisciplinary scale, spanning education, engineering, sciences, business, health, agriculture, and interdisciplinary academic programs.
Inspiring voices from graduating students
Student representatives at both ceremonies shared reflections on their academic journeys, the support of the A-State community, and their next steps after graduation.
Looking back on the journey
Kalayna King, a student from Conway and recipient of the R.E. Lee Wilson Award, emphasized the importance of cherishing the journey traveled and remembering that graduation is a significant step in each person's path of growth.
Carrying forward memories, support and determination
Julia Renee Pye, a student from Sheridan and recipient of the Distinguished Service Award, shared that students leave A-State not only with a degree, but also with memories, companionship, and a spirit of determination fostered by the community around them.
A-State confers honorary degree on Jo Ann Nalley
During the morning commencement ceremony, A-State conferred an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree on Jo Ann Nalley, one of the university's most dedicated, longtime staff members.
With more than 55 years of service to A-State, Jo Ann Nalley has led childhood services programs and helped secure more than USD 256 million in state and federal funding to support children's services programs throughout Arkansas.
Want to become part of the Red Wolves community?
The Arkansas State University Vietnam Recruitment Office helps students learn about programs, admission requirements, tuition, scholarships, and the application process for A-State.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did A-State hold commencement for the Class of 2026?
Arkansas State University held two commencement ceremonies on May 9, 2026, at First National Bank Arena.
How many degrees were confirmed at commencement?
According to A-State, approximately 2,565 degrees from eight colleges at the university were confirmed during this commencement.
Which colleges took part in the commencement ceremonies?
Graduating students came from the College of Education and Behavioral Science, College of Engineering and Computer Science, College of Liberal Arts and Communication, Beck College of Sciences and Mathematics, College of Agriculture, Neil Griffin College of Business, College of Nursing and Health Professions, and University College.
Who were the student speakers at the ceremonies?
The morning ceremony featured Kalayna King, recipient of the R.E. Lee Wilson Award. The afternoon ceremony featured Julia Renee Pye, recipient of the Distinguished Service Award. Both graduated with degrees in Biological Sciences.
How can I learn more about academic programs at A-State?
Students, prospective students, and parents in Vietnam can contact the Arkansas State University Vietnam Recruitment Office by email at study@astate.edu.vn or request advising at https://www.astate.edu.vn/lien-he/.