Tennessee Wesleyan University celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its annual commencement held Saturday, May 9, at 9:00 a.m. in Colloms Courtyard, welcoming more than 200 new members into its alumni association.

The ceremony recognized both undergraduate and graduate students upon the completion of their degree programs, which included teaching, business, education, social work, nursing, the arts/fine arts, the sciences, and dental hygiene. Faculty, staff, families, and community members gathered to honor these students’ academic accomplishments and the culmination of years of dedication and perseverance.

TWU President Dr. Tyler Forrest opened the ceremony by welcoming attendees and congratulating graduates on their achievements, emphasizing their lasting connection to the university as members of the “Bulldog family.”

A highlight of the ceremony was the student address delivered by Brooklyn Ingram-Nelson, who graduated with three separate degrees: psychology, religion and philosophy, and Christian ministries. In her speech, Ingram-Nelson reflected on the purpose of education, encouraging her fellow graduates to use their knowledge not only for personal success but to serve and uplift their communities. 

“As a final piece of advice,” said Ingram-Nelson, “I propose this: take the education you have worked so hard for over the last four years – intellectual, emotional, social, and practical wisdom – and use it for the good of others beyond yourself.”

The university also conferred an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree upon Jim Winer, principal and owner of Make3 Architecture, Planning, and Design. Winer was recognized for his decades of service to the university, including his significant contributions to campus planning and development, as well as his longstanding leadership on the Board of Trustees.

In addition to the conferring of degrees, several students and community members were honored with awards recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and service. Award descriptions and winners can be viewed below or by clicking HERE.

Faculty and staff were also recognized for their contributions, including retirements of longtime professors. Three highly esteemed faculty members were recognized upon their retirement: Dr. Keith Wheeler, Dr. John Ferguson, and Dr. Dan Gilbert. Dr. Betty Ruleman and Dr. Kerry Towler were granted by the faculty and the Board of Trustees emeritus status for their tremendous contributions to Tennessee Wesleyan.  Dr. Jack Seitz was recognized for winning the Deane G. Hall Award, and Dr. Sean Hayden was recognized as the Lockmiller Teacher of the Year Award. Dr. Julianne Hale was also honored for winning the UMC Exemplary Teacher of the Year for 2026.

During the ceremony, TWU awarded degrees at both the master’s and baccalaureate levels, officially conferring upon graduates all rights, privileges, and responsibilities associated with their respective degrees.

The event concluded with a celebration of the graduates and recognition of the support provided by their families, friends, and faculty throughout their academic journeys.

As the Class of 2026 departs from their college days at TWU, graduates were encouraged to carry forward the knowledge they gained during their years at the University while also becoming meaningful leaders in their respective communities. Graduates were officially welcomed into the Tennessee Wesleyan Alumni Association before the commencement ceremony officially concluded.