UMGC Marks Spring Commencement Season with 2026 Grad Walk

Extending the moment beyond the stage

Prior to the celebration, graduates received UMGC's signature "Grad Packs" by mail, with commemorative UMGC swag enclosed. A virtual ceremony allowed those unable to participate in-person to join the celebration, and an online gallery of graduates offered each graduate the option of customizing and sharing a slide across digital platforms.

"I'm thrilled we found a way to help graduates celebrate commencement wherever they are in the world," said Angela Grant, director of commencement services, noting that these combined efforts have become a lasting extension of UMGC's mission to connect with students across geographic boundaries.

In the virtual ceremony, graduates heard from Maryland Governor Wes Moore, University System of Maryland Regent Ellen R. Fish, UMGC President Fowler, UMGC Chief Learner Experience and Success Officer Angie Besendorfer, EdD, and fellow UMGC graduate Shanteal Alleyne '26, who earned a master's degree in strategic communications.

"I used to think I was the exception. The one who had waited too long. The one who was too far behind," said Alleyne, who credited her UMGC success coach with helping shift her mindset. "But now I know that doubt can be part of the journey, and when it shows up again, I will remember that I wasn't alone then and I'm not alone now."

She continued, addressing her fellow graduates: "When you walk across that stage, I hope you realize you didn't just complete a program. You became someone stronger, someone more resilient."