By Palm Beach State College
![PBSC President Ava L. Parker with graduate. [Photo courtesy PBSC]](https://eta.creativecirclecdn.com/scfl/large/20260506-152940-293-PBSC%20grad%202.jpg)
PBSC President Ava L. Parker with graduate. [Photo courtesy PBSC]
WEST PALM BEACH — More than 3,000 Palm Beach State College graduates crossed the stage Wednesday at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, marking a milestone defined by resilience, service and dedication.
The Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremonies featured four celebrations throughout the day, each highlighting the diversity and determination of PBSC’s graduating class—including 89 veterans and a record-breaking 144 dual enrollment students.
From future engineers and healthcare professionals to entrepreneurs and public servants, graduates reflected the College’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality education aligned with workforce and community needs. Graduates earned Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Bachelor of Applied Science and Bachelor of Science degrees, along with workforce certificates—each representing a step toward meeting critical workforce demands and strengthening the regional economy.
Among the day’s standout moments was a rare family milestone as three brothers—Nelson, Harold and Christian Prieto Romero—graduated together during the morning ceremony. Originally from Venezuela, the brothers arrived in the United States just two years ago and turned a challenging transition into a shared achievement, supporting one another while pursuing different academic paths.
![Interior crowd shot from 9 a.m. commencement ceremony at the Kravis Center. [Photo courtesy Palm Beach State College]](https://eta.creativecirclecdn.com/scfl/large/20260506-153109-4d5-PBSC%20grad%201.jpg)
Interior crowd shot from 9 a.m. commencement ceremony at the Kravis Center. [Photo courtesy Palm Beach State College]
Their story echoed a broader theme seen throughout the ceremonies: determination paired with opportunity.
“Earning a credential at Palm Beach State College is not just a personal achievement—it’s a powerful step toward greater opportunity and a brighter future,” said PBSC President Ava L. Parker, J.D. “Many of you have traveled a unique path to reach this day, sometimes juggling work, family, and life’s unexpected detours. You persevered, and today, you stand here ready to take the next leap forward.”
The College also highlighted graduates already making an impact in critical industries. Emerson Blatche’ and Jonathan Jackson are stepping directly into full-time engineering roles supporting aerospace innovation and energy production in Palm Beach County. Veteran graduates like Skye Escobar and Steeve Dante balanced military service, family responsibilities and academics to launch new careers in healthcare and construction management.
The day’s ceremonies were punctuated by messages of inspiration fro local community leaders. Palm Beach County Mayor and PBSC alumna Sara Baxter delivered the keynote address at the 9 a.m. ceremony telling graduates: “Palm Beach State taught me the importance of community. This College reflects the very best of Palm Bech County—diverse, driven, and full of potential.”
Additional keynote speakers included Florida Rep. Jervonte “Tae” Edmonds, Florida Rep. Debra Tendrich and Florida Rep. Anne Gerwig.
Ceremony themes added depth to the celebration, with recognitions including National Nurses Day, veteran graduates and the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, dual enrollment student achievement and PBSC alumni success.
![PBSC President Ava L. Parker with graduate. [Photo courtesy PBSC]](https://eta.creativecirclecdn.com/scfl/original/20260506-152940-293-PBSC%20grad%202.jpg)
![Interior crowd shot from 9 a.m. commencement ceremony at the Kravis Center. [Photo courtesy Palm Beach State College]](https://eta.creativecirclecdn.com/scfl/original/20260506-153109-4d5-PBSC%20grad%201.jpg)
