Paul Smith's College

Paul Smith's College Celebrates Class of 2026

Over 160 Graduates Participate in Annual Commencement

PAUL SMITHS, N.Y. (05/09/2026) — Beneath the open skies of the Adirondacks, Paul Smith's College marked a milestone for its newest class of graduates as over 160 students participated in the College's 79th Annual Commencement.

President Daniel Kelting opened the ceremony with a welcome address to the students and their families. His remarks set a tone of confidence and possibility, reinforcing the values that define a Paul Smith's College education.

"As you step into the next chapter of your lives, remember that your education has not only equipped you with knowledge but also honed a new set of personal skills. Armed with determination, resilience, adaptability, and humility, there is no limit to what all of you can achieve."

- Dr. Daniel Kelting, President, Paul Smith's College

Following the president's welcome, Cora Mance, Senior Class President, and Connor Howell, Student Government Association President, represented their classmates as joint student speakers.

" One of the most incredible things about being a Smitty is that you don't just walk out of these doors and leave it behind. This place sticks with you."

- Cora Mance, Class of 2026 Student Speaker

Their remarks drew enthusiastic applause from classmates, many of whom nodded in recognition of shared experiences. Their words captured both the closeness of the class and the pride they carried into graduation.

The ceremony then transitioned to the keynote address, delivered by David Kanietakeron Fadden. Fadden is a respected Akwesasne Mohawk artist, storyteller, and Director of the Six Nations Iroquois Cultural Center. His selection reflects the College's ongoing commitment to fostering education grounded in environmental stewardship, cultural understanding, and community responsibility.

"You will make mistakes, struggle at times, and people will criticize your work. Listen to that criticism and do not take it personally but rather, learn and grow from those mistakes. You may not agree with the criticism at times but if you listen and do not take it personally, you will realize that it was meant to help you grow. Be creative and fearless."

- David Kanietakeron Fadden, Keynote Speaker

Fadden's storytelling wove together heritage, responsibility, and the natural world, leaving a lasting impression on graduates and guests alike. A brief pause after his closing line underscored the weight of his message before the ceremony continued.

Paul Smith's College conferred three honorary degrees during the ceremony. David Kanietakeron Fadden received a Doctor of Letters, James B. Cantwell '67 was awarded a Doctor of Civil Law, and Elizabeth Thorndike, Ph.D., received a Doctor of Science. The College also recognized faculty members Susan N. Alexander, Donald Kirsche '67, and Peter Roland with emeritus status, honoring their lasting contributions to the institution and its students.

The ceremony concluded with the conferral of degrees and the formal turning of tassels, followed by a standing ovation from family and friends. As graduates recessed from the ceremony, they were met with cheers, embraces, and their first moments of celebration as alumni of Paul Smith's College.

By the Numbers: Class of 2026

17 master's degree recipients
2 Graduate Certificate recipients
123 bachelor's degree recipients
18 associate degree recipients
15 states and 5 countries represented in the graduating class

About Paul Smith's College:

At Paul Smith's College, it's about the experience. As the only four-year college located in the Adirondack Park in upstate New York, Paul Smith's provides real-world, hands-on learning in fields such as business and hospitality, culinary management, forestry, environmental sciences and natural resources. We are able to draw on industries and resources available in our own backyard while preparing students for successful careers anywhere. Our community of resourceful, enterprising, supportive and adventurous individuals collectively provide experiential education, student support in the classroom and beyond, and meaningful opportunities for our alumni. We pride ourselves on research and advocacy on issues that improve our planet and the lives of the people who inhabit it. Learn more at paulsmiths.edu.