Greenville University’s Commencement Ceremony Celebrated 247 Graduates on Sunday
Greenville University (GU) celebrated a defining milestone for its Class of 2026 on Saturday, May 9, as 247 graduates crossed the Commencement stage. Alongside the conferring of degrees, President Suzanne Davis recognized exceptional achievements by presenting three of the University’s highest individual honors.
The University conferred 193 undergraduate degrees across 23 majors. 54 graduate degrees were conferred; 10 in Business, 44 in Education.
Madison Ashford received the President’s Award for Character and Service. Ethan Poole was selected as the President’s Citation Award winner. Professor Paul Alvord won the W. Richard Stephen’s Award
The ceremony was held at Hogue Lawn as family, friends, faculty, and staff gathered to honor the accomplishments, resilience, and commitment demonstrated by this year’s graduating class.
GU alumnus, and celebrated NFL Linebacker Nicholas Morrow, gave the commencement address and offered remarks reflecting on the graduates’ academic experiences and the impact they are poised to make in their communities and professions.
Madison Ashford, ‘26, a Criminal Justice and Psychology major of Germantown, Ill., was honored with the President’s Award for Character and Service. One of GU’s highest honors, this award recognizes a graduating senior who exemplifies outstanding character, servant leadership, and a sustained commitment to serving others.
The President’s Citation Award was presented to Ethan Poole, 26’ a Business Management and Spanish major from Murray, Utah. The President’s Citation Award, GU’s most prestigious academic distinction, recognizes a graduating senior who has demonstrated exceptional academic achievement within the context of a Christian liberal arts education.
Professor Paul Alvord is this year’s W. Richard Stephen’s Award recipient. Alvord was selected among faculty members who exemplifies his dedication to Christ-centered education, student mentorship, and service-oriented character.
Graduates represent over 23 of the university’s 50 disciplines and have engaged in experiential learning opportunities, internships, research, and service initiatives throughout their time at Greenville. Many will enter the workforce immediately, while others will pursue advanced degrees.
