Teachers College 2026 Convocation Honors Over 1,900 Graduates in New York
Teachers College at Columbia University celebrated more than 1,900 graduates from the Class of 2026 during its convocation ceremonies held at the United Palace Theater in Washington Heights on May 18 and 19. The event brought together students, families, faculty, and global alumni as part of a community that now spans more than 100,000 members.
Across four ceremonies, graduates from education, health, psychology, and related fields were honored for completing their programs. The celebrations focused on service, leadership, and the role of education in shaping society.
President Thomas Bailey reminded graduates that their work goes beyond classrooms. “We are all educators,” he said. “Your job now is to share your wisdom. Bring others along. That is how we make our impact.”
Misty Copeland Highlights Expanding Opportunity Through Education and Art
World-renowned ballet dancer, author, and philanthropist Misty Copeland delivered one of the most talked-about speeches of the convocation series. She spoke to graduates in Arts & Humanities, Curriculum & Teaching, and Education Policy & Social Analysis programs.
Copeland shared her personal journey as the first Black woman to become a principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre. She described entering a space that was not originally built for her, and how she chose not just to fit in but to change it.
“When I entered the world of ballet, I was entering a space that wasn’t built with me in mind,” she said. “But over time, I realized something deeper. Real progress doesn’t come from fitting into a system; it comes from expanding it.”
She encouraged graduates to use their roles as educators to open doors for others, especially young people from underserved communities. She added that consistency, care, and belief can change lives.
Leadership Messages Emphasize Empathy, Ethics, and Human Connection
Throughout the convocation, leaders stressed the importance of compassion and ethical leadership in a changing world. President Bailey urged graduates to lead with heart, even in a time shaped by rapid technological change.
“Technology can automate the routine. But it can never automate the moral courage required to make the right decision,” he said. He encouraged graduates to remain grounded in values such as integrity, empathy, and service.
Board of Trustees Chair Leslie Morse Nelson also highlighted the institution’s long-standing mission to promote human wellbeing and meaningful social change. She praised the Class of 2026 for continuing that legacy through their academic and personal achievements.
Distinguished Speakers Call for Empathy, Authenticity, and Persistence
Several honorees and alumni also delivered speeches that focused on identity, resilience, and leadership in complex systems.
Prudence L. Carter of Brown University emphasized the need for empathy and inclusion, describing society as still being “a society in progress.” She encouraged graduates to become “architects of empathic connection.”
Wanda Marie Holland Greene spoke about authenticity in leadership. She urged graduates to remain true to themselves, saying, “Your unique story is the home where your superpowers live.”
Kate MacKenzie reflected on long-term change in public systems, reminding graduates that meaningful progress requires patience and persistence.
Student Speakers Reflect on Community, Growth, and Purpose
Student speakers shared personal reflections on their time at Teachers College and the importance of community support. Many described their academic journey as deeply transformative.
Jihan Basyah noted that the value of TC went beyond degrees. “TC did not just educate us, it transformed us,” she said.
Other students, including Abu Abdelbagi, RJ Wicks, and Sam Bolourtchi, spoke about resilience, service, and the responsibility to create change in schools, communities, and organizations.
Their messages reflected a shared theme of growth through shared experience and collective learning.
Breaking New Ground Celebration Highlights First Generation Graduates
The convocation also included the Breaking New Ground celebration, honoring students who were the first in their families to earn a post-secondary degree. The ceremony featured emotional tributes, family recognition, and messages of gratitude.
Faculty and staff highlighted the importance of storytelling, identity, and perseverance. Many graduates reflected on challenges they had overcome while pursuing higher education.
Additional receptions also recognized international students and staff graduates, strengthening the sense of inclusion across the Teachers College community.
Conclusion: A Class Prepared to Lead with Purpose and Care
As the Class of 2026 moves forward, the convocation messages consistently returned to one idea: education is not only about knowledge, but about responsibility.
From Misty Copeland’s call to expand systems to President Bailey’s reminder about moral courage, graduates were encouraged to lead with purpose. The ceremonies closed with a strong message of hope, service, and human connection.
