Lake Superior State University celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 2, in the Taffy Abel Arena in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Family, friends, faculty, staff, and supporters gathered in person and online to honor graduates as they crossed the stage and began a new chapter.
The ceremony recognized Fall 2025 graduates, Winter 2025 — 26 graduates, Spring 2026 candidates for graduation, and Summer 2026 candidates for graduation. Graduates were recognized for earning credentials ranging from certificates to master’s degrees, including LSSU’s inaugural class of Master of Business Administration (MBA) graduates.
Alana Jewel Schofield-Miller
This year’s ceremony featured student speaker Alana Jewel Miller-Schofield, a fisheries researcher and conservation advocate, who reflected on the experiences, growth, and opportunities that shaped the graduating class throughout their time at Lake State.
Thomas C. Bailey
Commencement speaker Thomas C. Bailey, a longtime conservation leader, addressed graduates with remarks focused on service and the importance of connecting with nature. As part of the ceremony, Bailey was awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition of his contributions to conservation and environmental stewardship.
Dr. Jonathan Doubek
The ceremony also recognized Dr. Jonathan Doubek, recipient of LSSU’s Distinguished Teaching Award. Doubek celebrated the graduating class and their accomplishments while encouraging them to pursue meaningful work and lifelong learning beyond the classroom.
The ceremony highlighted LSSU’s commitment to culture, tradition, and the arts. Traditional Native drumming was featured throughout select portions of the ceremony, and members of the LSSU Music Department delivered a live performance as participants entered the venue.
Throughout the celebration, themes of career readiness, perseverance, and real-world impact remained as graduates prepared to move from the classroom into careers, continued education, and opportunities across a wide array of fields.
A recording of the 2026 Commencement Ceremony is available to watch online at: https://bit.ly/LSSUCommencement26
Lake Superior State University extends its heartfelt congratulations to all graduates and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.