ONEONTA, NY — Seven hundred and one SUNY Oneonta students completed the requirements for a bachelor's degree following the spring 2026 semester. Graduates were honored and recognized during spring commencement, held Saturday, May 16, 2026, in the Dewar Arena of the Alumni Field House. Held across four ceremonies, spring commencement honored approximately 1,150 graduate and undergraduate students from across the university's three academic schools.

The day before commencement, seniors took part in the Pass Through the Pillars tradition. With friends, family, faculty and staff cheering them on, seniors walked through the pillars a final time, representing the end of their Oneonta journey and transition into the alumni family.

Yamileth Romero of Ferndale (12734) earned a Bachelor of Science in Childhood Education (1-6) . Graduating students who meet all degree and major requirements, who also have a 3.50 or higher major GPA, may be recommended by the department chair for department honors. Romero received honors in Childhood Education.

Brian Riebe of Smallwood (12778) earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology Cum Laude. Graduating students who meet all degree and major requirements, who also have a 3.50 or higher major GPA, may be recommended by the department chair for department honors. Riebe received honors in Psychology.

Nicholas Muscia of South Fallsburg (12779) earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology Magna Cum Laude. Graduating students who meet all degree and major requirements, who also have a 3.50 or higher major GPA, may be recommended by the department chair for department honors. Muscia received honors in Psychology.

Samantha Rysdyke of Woodridge (12789) earned a Bachelor of Arts in English .

Christine Barkl of Kiamesha Lake (12751) earned a Bachelor of Science in Theatre .

Wendy Cando of Liberty (12754) earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration .

Jonathan Hernandez of South Fallsburg (12779) earned a Bachelor of Science in History .

SUNY Oneonta is a public, four-year university in Central New York, enrolling about 5,300 students in a wide variety of bachelor's degree programs and more than a dozen graduate certificate and degree programs. The university is known as both an exemplary residential campus that values inclusion, service and sustainability, and a nurturing community where students grow intellectually, thrive socially and live purposefully. Learn more at https://suny.oneonta.edu