FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29, 2026
MEDIA CONTACT:
Lisa Slappy, Chief Communications and Public Relations Officer
410-386-8184 | lslappy@carrollcc.edu
Carroll Community College Celebrates Class of 2026 at 33rd Commencement Ceremony
Carroll Community College (Carroll) conferred degrees and certificates on 575 graduates at its Thirty-Third Commencement Ceremony, held Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. The ceremony, presided over by Carroll President, Dr. Rosalie V. Mince, highlighted the graduates’ accomplishments and the college’s impact on the community.
In the Class of 2026, 121 graduates were the first in their families to earn a college degree, a milestone that underscores Carroll’s role in opening doors for new generations. The College also celebrated 15 dual-enrolled students who completed college degrees before finishing high school, and 40 graduates who earned multiple degrees or certificates, a clear testament to their ambition and drive. A special milestone was marked by one graduate, Ivy Hale, who became the first student at Carroll to complete both an associate degree and a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate concurrently.
“Today we gather to celebrate not only the achievements of our graduates but also the journey that brought them here, a journey of learning, growth through experience, and truly earning the success we now honor,” said Dr. Rosalie V. Mince, President of Carroll Community College. “Our graduates have shown tremendous resilience, determination, and commitment to their goals, and each of them embodies our mission of empowering learners, changing lives, and building community.”
The commencement exercises included remarks from Board of Trustees Chair David P. O’Callaghan, who congratulated the graduates on behalf of the Board. O’Callaghan then introduced the Commencement Speaker, Ms. Carlene Cassidy, Chief Executive Officer of the Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation. Cassidy’s keynote address celebrated the support networks that bolster student success and encouraged graduates to remain engaged with their communities as they embark on their careers or further education.
Evelyn Grissel Cabrera Hernandez, selected as the Class of 2026 Student Commencement Speaker, also addressed the audience. Evelyn Cabrera Hernandez, herself a first-generation college graduate, reflected on how balancing academics, work, and extracurricular leadership roles shaped her journey. “The person you are today is not the final version of yourself. You will continue to grow. To evolve. To discover new paths and new purposes. But wherever life takes you, carry this with you: Advocate for yourself. Advocate for others. And never underestimate the power of your voice.”
As part of her address, Dr. Mince noted that many of Carroll’s newest alumni will continue their education or begin careers, with a significant number joining the local workforce. She commended those who plan to stay in Carroll County, remarking that their decision to live and work in the area will strengthen the community and affirm the value of a Carroll education.
The Class of 2026 earned a broad range of associate degrees and certificates, reflecting Carroll’s comprehensive program offerings and commitment to workforce and transfer readiness. Carroll Community College’s 33rd Commencement reaffirmed the institution’s mission to empower learners, change lives, and build community. As the graduates embark on the next chapter, whether entering four-year universities, starting new jobs, or both, they carry forward the skills, knowledge, and community spirit nurtured at Carroll, ready to make a positive impact in Carroll County and beyond.
Click this link to view photos: 2026 Commencement
