Editor’s Note: Jack Derbenti’s last name was misspelled at one point in this article. The story has been updated to reflect the correct spelling. 

This year’s graduating class’s commencement ceremony brought with it a unique commencement address and scorching temperatures.

On the morning of June 13, eager Beavers lined up along 26th Street and Jefferson Street, with friends and family congratulating them early before the big day.

“College is so challenging for so many, and having a day just dedicated to celebrating yourself and celebrating your friends, I think, is really huge in making a memorable college experience,” Said Summa Cum Laude Kimberlee Britton, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

Britton’s fellow graduate and mechanical engineering major, Cameron Lewis, added, “It gives me a sense of accomplishment. It lets me actually feel like I did it, you know? It’s the big important thing. It’s perfect.”

The ceremony began with a bagpipe ensemble walking through campus with the color guard in tow. The parade was headed towards Reser Stadium, where commencement was going to be held. 

The Color Guard led Oregon State University administrators such as OSU’s president, Jayathi Murthy, Provost and Executive Vice President, Roy Haggerty, as well as other members of leadership from each college on a pre-designated route.

The parade gradually amassed more and more participants as groups of graduating students from each college began joining in alongside their administrators.

At 10:40 a.m., students lined the northern tunnels of Reser Stadium. As the students slowly filled into their seats, they were met with the sounds of fanfare and celebration provided by the OSU Wind Ensemble.

The ceremony took place in almost 90-degree heat with the sun beaming down on the graduates. While seated, students cooled themselves with fans provided to them by faculty, trying to beat the heat of the day.

As the commencement ceremony began, President

Murthy and OSU’s Board of Trustees Chair Román Hernández gave their opening statements and introduction to the color guard. 

In addition, President Murthy presented the Honorary Doctorate to Katharine Jefferts, the 26th Presiding Bishop and Primate of the Episcopal Church.

The podium was then given to the only OSU student speaker of the ceremony for the Commencement Address: Olympic gold medalist and class of 2026 graduate Jade Carey.

Describing the trials and tribulations that she faced and overcame while earning her degree, students like Claire Alcorn, a bachelor’s in natural resources policy and management,  found Carey’s address sympathetic.

“I think (graduating) signifies the growth of a new chapter. I think it signifies me becoming an independent adult who can manage hard things. I did struggle a lot with college and managing and trying to balance everything,” Alcorn said.

Following Carey’s speech was the singing of OSU’s alma mater and the commissioning of officers for the United States Armed Forces. 

During the latter, Lieutenant Colonel Ira Field facilitated the commissioning of the ROTC officers, which included ROTC graduates standing and taking the oath of commissioned officers. 

Following the commissioning, Jacob Hamblin, president of the OSU faculty senate, gave his approval for the candidates receiving their diplomas that day. Ultimately leading to the main event, the distribution of the class of 2026’s diplomas.    

Family, fellow students and faculty watched as the class of 2026 reached the end of their journey at OSU: Receiving their diplomas at graduation.

“It’s a 23-year journey, and we’re just starting the next journey.” Ken Derbenti said while celebrating his son’s – Jack Derbenti – new bachelor’s degree in philosophy with minors in mathematics and computer Science. 

Jack Derbenti’s little brother – Elliot Derbenti – added, “My brother is going out into the world and it gives me hope for myself that I can do the same someday, leave the house.”

While for some, this was their commencement, other newly graduated students were not strangers to an event such as this. 

Caden Jolma, an Industrial Engineer receiving his master’s degree that day, said, “My mom was the first one to get a master’s… Being the second one here, being able to say that I’ve finished this degree is really impactful to me and for my family.”