The top students of Vaughn College’s class of 2026 gathered in the main lobby on Thursday, May 7 to have their hard work commended by faculty, staff, family and friends in attendance. Dr. Paul LaVergne, vice president of academic affairs, began the event with opening remarks, which were followed by welcoming words from President Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo.  

The convocation address was delivered by Mary Prettyman, head of marketing for Pratt and Whitney. Prettyman praised Vaughn students for their technical skills, resilience and hard work: “You have learned how to solve problems under pressure. To study details. To think systematically. To communicate clearly. To keep learning even when the material is difficult. Those habits will carry you farther than talent alone ever could. Because success in aviation is rarely about being the smartest person in the room.” 

Nia Newell ’26, a computer engineering student, was the student speaker for the occasion. She gave an inspiring speech about stepping out of her comfort zone and the opportunities that came with finding her place in the Vaughn community. 

“One of the most important lessons I’ve learned here is that very little can be accomplished by staying in the shadows. Growth—and impact—comes from being proactive and stepping outside your comfort zone. And when I finally started doing that, both the opportunities I received and my overall experience at Vaughn drastically improved,” said Newell.  

The Bessie Coleman award was presented to Newell, for being a female graduate with a grade point average of 3.5 or above who has made significant contributions to the College.   

Departmental awards were distributed to students who excelled in aviation, engineering, management and technology with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. Awards were also given to students who were leaders, athletes or veterans in addition to succeeding academically. Kenna Fullerton ’26, who is obtaining her bachelor’s degree in airline management, received the Board of Trustees award and will be giving the address at commencement on Saturday, May 16. 

Convocation closed with the presentation of honor cords to the students graduating with cum laude, magna cum laude and summa cum laude status. 

View the event program here.

Mary Prettyman, Head of Marketing for Pratt and Whitney’s Commercial Engines Division
Nia Newell ’26, First Female Computer Engineering Graduate and Bessie Coleman Award Winner
Summa Cum Laude Graduates