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�鶹ӳ�� will celebrate the achievements of its Class of 2026 with two commencement ceremonies in Reilly Center Arena, highlighted by student speakers whose stories reflect leadership, resilience and community impact.

The university will host its Graduate Studies Commencement Ceremony at noon on Saturday, May 16, followed by the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony at 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 17. Both will be .

Selected as student speakers are two accomplished members of the Class of 2026: Shantell Wilson, representing graduate students, and Emma Spadoni, representing undergraduates.

Graduate Speaker: Shantell Wilson

Wilson, who earned her MBA from �鶹ӳ�� in December 2025, has built a career centered on leadership, service and community impact. She serves as the engagement liaison and character education developer for CITRS/CHARACTER COUNTS! in Buffalo Public Schools and leads community initiatives through her nonprofit organization, Guiding Light, which focuses on youth leadership, life readiness and character development. She is also a licensed real estate professional.

“At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to helping others recognize their value, walk in purpose, and become impactful leaders in their communities,” she said.

Wilson, of Buffalo, chose �鶹ӳ�� for its mission-driven approach to education and its emphasis on ethical, purpose-driven leadership. She credits her graduate experience with strengthening her professional confidence and expanding how she thinks as a leader.

“It equipped me with stronger strategic, organizational and decision-making skills that I now apply in education, nonprofit leadership and business. More importantly, it affirmed that leadership is not simply about holding a title; it is about creating meaningful change,” Wilson said.

Her commencement address will focus on perseverance, purpose and personal growth.

“I plan to speak about overcoming obstacles, embracing growth through difficult seasons, and understanding that success is often built through resilience, faith and the courage to keep moving forward,” said Wilson. “My hope is that every graduate leaves inspired to boldly step into their next chapter, knowing that every part of their journey has helped shape who they are becoming.”

Wilson’s MBA became a stepping stone for her to continue her academic journey at �鶹ӳ��, where she is pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership.

Undergraduate Speaker: Emma Spadoni

Spadoni, a Communication, Social Justice and Advocacy major from Webster, New York, was drawn to �鶹ӳ�� by its close-knit community and strong alumni connections. The basketball fan said the campus culture made her feel immediately at home.

During her time at the university, Spadoni has been involved in a number of student organizations, including Empower, Jandoli Women in Communication, a student book club, Astronomy Club, and SBU@SPCA, a partnership between Bona’s and the SPCA serving Cattaraugus County. 

“I was meant to come here and find my way,” Spadoni said.

In her address, she plans to reflect on the importance of community, share advice for life after college, and incorporate several lighthearted musical references.

Following graduation, Spadoni will return home to work full time with Oaks Inc., where she previously served as the company’s first intern. Her work included contributing to strategic planning, presenting proposals to leadership and managing client relationships.

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�鶹ӳ�� the University: The nation’s first Franciscan university, �鶹ӳ�� is a community committed to transforming the lives of its students inside and outside the classroom, inspiring in them a commitment to academic excellence and lifelong civic engagement. Out of 167 regional universities in the North, �鶹ӳ�� was ranked #8 for value and #19 overall by U.S. News and World Report (2025).