CofC Graduate School Commencement Celebrates Achievements

^{Photos by Mike Ledford}

Students from the Graduate School of the University of Charleston, South Carolina, gathered in the historic Sottile Theatre on Thursday, May 7, 2026, to celebrate the conclusion of their academic journeys at College of Charleston and the beginning of their future paths.

President Andrew T. Hsu welcomed the students and commended them on persevering through the challenges of balancing work and family obligations to continue their educational pursuits.

Melissa Hughes, a biology professor who is pursuing an M.F.A. in creative writing at the College, spoke to the graduates, offering her unique perspective.

“Do not let your accomplishments here become small to you,” she said. “While your graduate experience shrinks to a sentence, a single line on your résumé or CV, do not let who you are right now shrink in your heart.”

In addition, Dylan McGuire, president of the Graduate Student Association, shared his journey from audiology to environmental science; and Brady Quirk-Garvan ’08, president of the Alumni Association, also addressed the graduates.

Leadership awards were also presented during the ceremony. Rafael Guerra (Master of Public Administration) received the Excellence in Service and Engagement Award, Kylie Warden (Master of Science in Environmental and Sustainability Studies) received the Excellence in Leadership Award and Matt Cruse (Executive Master of Business Administration) received the Excellence in Experiential Learning Award.

Tim Callahan, interim dean of the Graduate School of the University of Charleston, South Carolina, and Adam Ali, associate dean of the Graduate School, presented graduates with their hoods, and the ceremony concluded with the College of Charleston alma mater.