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Photos: UMMC honors Class of 2026 graduates at 70th commencement

Published on Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Photos By: Joe Ellis, Jay Ferchaud and Melanie Thortis/ UMMC Communications

As the University of Mississippi Medical Center honored its Class of 2026 during commencement ceremonies Friday, graduates were reminded that healthcare is more than a profession — it is a calling. The celebration represents the resilience, compassion and purpose of students preparing to make a lasting impact on patients and communities.

Jessica Jeanea Sledge, a BSN graduate, struts with pride after receiving her diploma.
Jessica Jeanea Sledge, a BSN graduate, struts with pride after receiving her diploma.
Occupational PhD therapy graduates savor the moment. They are, from left, Kaitlin Senter, Kathleen Tucker, Emily Horn and Ally Gunter.
Occupational PhD therapy graduates savor the moment. They are, from left, Kaitlin Senter, Kathleen Tucker, Emily Horn and Ally Gunter.
Brianna White, PhD physical therapy graduate, receives a congratulatory hug from friend Bianna Hamlin.
Brianna White, PhD physical therapy graduate, receives a congratulatory hug from friend Bianna Hamlin.
University of Mississippi Chancellor Glenn Boyce congratulates graduates and their family and friends.
University of Mississippi Chancellor Glenn Boyce congratulates graduates and their family and friends.
Standing in solidarity, MSN graduates exhibit pride in their accomplishments.
Standing in solidarity, MSN graduates exhibit pride in their accomplishments.
Brian David Christman is hooded after receiving his PhD in biostatistics and data science.
Brian David Christman is hooded after receiving his PhD in biostatistics and data science.
Physical therapy graduate Sarah Katherine Steward displays her Honors College medal.
Physical therapy graduate Sarah Katherine Steward displays her Honors College medal.
Occupational therapy graduate Brittany Coleman shares the spotlight with her 1-year-old son Lane.
Occupational therapy graduate Brittany Coleman shares the spotlight with her 1-year-old son Lane.
Husband and wife graduate Michael (PhD) and Kaitlin Franks (MSN) celebrate their joint accomplishments.
Husband and wife graduate Michael (PhD) and Kaitlin Franks (MSN) celebrate their joint accomplishments.
Occupational therapy PhD graduates beam with excitement. They are, from left, Alex Wolfe, Maci Kirkland and Bailey Somerville.
Occupational therapy PhD graduates beam with excitement. They are, from left, Alex Wolfe, Maci Kirkland and Bailey Somerville.
Radiologic sciences BS graduates Brooke Barron, left, Kadence Banaka and Anna Grace McAlpin are all smiles during graduation.
Radiologic sciences BS graduates Brooke Barron, left, Kadence Banaka and Anna Grace McAlpin are all smiles during graduation.
Elizabeth Carr, chair of dental hygiene takes a selfie with graduates and staff in the School of Dentistry.
Elizabeth Carr, chair of dental hygiene takes a selfie with graduates and staff in the School of Dentistry.
Anna-Maria Gaines finds a friendly face in the crowd shortly before receiving her BSN.
Anna-Maria Gaines finds a friendly face in the crowd shortly before receiving her BSN.
Dylian Rodkeya Johnson-Burton is joyful about receiving her BSN degree.
Dylian Rodkeya Johnson-Burton is joyful about receiving her BSN degree.
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Makenzie Leigh Baker earns her MD, and will begin her residency at UMMC in pediatrics.